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'I'm still a bit off': Sean O'Brien promises even better performances to come

Scary.

DESPITE PUTTING IN an astounding 80-minute display in an intense contest against New Zealand, Sean O’Brien says he still has a way to go before claiming to be back to his best.

O’Brien’s effort in the 21 – 9 loss to the world champions was little short of heroic. He made 20 carries in heavy traffic, won three turnovers and was second only to Devin Toner with his 40 contributions to the ruck.

“I think I’m a little bit off still,” the Tullow Tank said after being named in the starting line-up for Saturday’s meeting with Australia.

“I think I’ve a lot of improvement in myself in different areas. That’s why I’m looking forward to this week, to build again on last week and see where we go from here.”

Sean O'Brien reacts A rare error: O'Brien reacts after spilling the ball on a planned drive for the try-line. Dan Sheridan / INPHO Dan Sheridan / INPHO / INPHO

Due to his long-term hamstring injury, the All Black clash was the first time O’Brien had not been asked to play a full 80 minutes in 10 months. Still, the Carlow man didn’t seem overly troubled by the exertion looking back.

“I didn’t have to do much. I suppose, The prep was done during the week. I had prepared myself to play a full game. I was very happy to do that and glad I did.”

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