We’ve decided to give everybody a little review of the summer internationals by deciding who has been each home nations best and worst player in the final weekend of fixtures.
WEEKEND RESULTS:
- New Zealand 22-32 Ireland
- Australia 17-21 England
- South Africa 30-14 Wales
- Argentina 34-31 Scotland
IRELAND
BEST PLAYER: Tadhg Beirne
JOE- 10/10: “Won a huge penalty inside his 22, at the breakdown… again. Made a THIRD turnover, and second inside his 22, on 73 minutes. Then made a FOURTH, on 75.”
BALLS – 9/10: “His penalty win in the 58th minute was vital moment that stopped New Zealand momentum at a vital time and again come up with 3 epic moments in the last 8 minutes when his team’s backs were against the wall.”
Irish Times 10/10: “Two trademark penalty turnovers at the breakdown, another turnover forced with a beautifully timed counter-ruck, 18 tackles and huge work-rate on both sides of the ball. Outstanding and a display for the ages.”
Independent 10/10: “Another staggeringly great game from the 30-year-old, he was a menace to all those wearing black. With Ireland under the pump, he came up with three game-changing moments at the breakdown.”
WORST PLAYER: Mack Hansen
JOE – 7/10: “Early knock-on, but did not affect him as he claimed the next steepler. Had a kick up the line blocked down by Sevu Reece. Stepped by Akira Ioane for his try. “
Balls – 7/10: “Targeted in the air early by New Zealand and struggled. Some great attacking involvements with some crisp passing. “
Independent – 7/10: “Failed to stop Ioane’s score but the damage had already been done.”