‘Rugby reinvigorated after poor Lions series’ – Ronan O’Gara

Planet Rugby

Ronan O'Gara speaking at the world meeting of families in Dublin.

La Rochelle head coach Ronan O’Gara believes that the northern hemisphere teams and players look “refreshed” after the frustration of the British and Irish Lions tour.

Following a Test series against South Africa which was characterised by physicality, kicking and altogether conservative rugby, there was a much more positive mindset in the Autumn Nations Series.

Ireland, England and Scotland in particular played with a vim and vigour not seen by Warren Gatland’s men in July and August.

The first two teams completed an unbeaten campaign, with France – another side that lit up the end-of-year series – the only other tier one nation to do that.

With O’Gara set to lead La Rochelle into their Champions Cup opener against Glasgow Warriors, the Ireland legend believes that both rugby – and the northern hemisphere game – is back on track.

Wasn’t what we stand for

“I think the rugby played on that tour wasn’t a representation of what we stand for on this side of the world,” he told BBC 5 Live.

“It was a massive disappointment to see the best of our players playing like that.

“But (during the Autumn Nations Series) the skill level, the tempo with which a lot of teams were playing, the mindset – everyone seems to be completely refreshed, renewed and reinvigorated.

“There is a juicy Six Nations coming up but, before that, four rounds of Europe which will, I think, get people even more excited again.

“So it’s probably gone a complete 360°, with crowds back, the best of rugby back, and the best of competitions with the European Cup and the Six Nations.”

 

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