IRELAND’S FLEDGLING SEVENS setup are one step away from Olympic qualification after a third place finish in today’s Rugby Europe Olympic repechage in Lisbon.
The men’s team, containing many players who had not played Sevens rugby before entering the international setup this summer, went to Portugal this weekend knowing a top three finish was required to keep their Olympic dream on track.
And they delivered on the promise and progress they have shown in recent weeks with a 15 – 7 win over Georgia in today’s third place play-off.
Anthony Eddy’s men began the day in fine form, underlining their high seeding with a commanding 17 – 0 quarter-final win over Lithuania with Harry McNulty, Adam Byrne and Mark Roche crossing the try-line.
The final would prove out of reach however, as Russia prevailed 24 – 10 in the semis to leave Ireland with no margin for error. Thankfully, the young squad were able to regroup in time to see off Georgia and keep their feet on the road to Rio with tries from Ian Fitzpatrick, Harry McNulty, Terry Kennedy
To qualify for the Olympic Games, Ireland must now win the 12-team World Olympic repechage which takes place in June of next year.
Shane Lowry is a breath of fresh air when it comes to professional sport. Nothing scripted, always honest.
It would be great to see him win the Claret jug.
He has a good chance mick of lifting it! Might do a cheeky bet on him
Lowry is always worth a cheeky fiver e/w
Well said shane! Most of us go for a kickaround on the astro once a week, why shouldnt rory! Nike might give him a boot deal when they’re at it!
Had the pleasure to be in Shanes company for dinner once ..hes a true gent and always talks sense ..Unlucky Rory
Sure he could have done that if he slipped in the bath. He can’t wrap him self in cotton wool.
Lowry himself had a freak injury about 4 years ago. Rumour has it that he fell down the stairs in Coppers! Not sure if true or not. Obviously not quite on the same level but these guys can’t be wrapped in cotton wool. They need to have some semblance of normality in their lives.
Still though it’s crazy timing. The Open at St. Andrews in THE major that everyone wants.
Shane likes a night out. Met him once out in Dublin on a night out. Sound fella.
Accidents happen no matter what, he’s only trying to enjoy himself with his mates. Lowry is talking a lot of sense, as per usual.
I have spoke to same who said what was he thinking the week before the open? what’s your view?
I know the Open is a major, but he is nearly always a week away from some tournament. Why not have a kick around? Sure you can injure yourself walking down the stairs.
that was my view but others seem to think what was he at
Buffon or Toldo. Can’t remember which Italian keeper it was…. but he knocked a shaving gel can on his foot and broke a bone a month before a world cup. sh#t happens.
it was Canizarès the ex Valencia/Spanish Goalie,
Apparently he wasn’t even bring tackled when it happened. It’s just hard luck. He can’t be expected to beat balls all day.