Peter O’Mahony and Sean O’Brien have many similarities in their game and in their attitude.
Both men are absolute warriors on the field of play. They are famed for their trojan-like work rate, their steely resolve and their relentless drive and ferocity be it in a Munster, a Leinster or an Ireland jersey.
Both men will line up for The British and Irish Lions first test of their 2017 tour of New Zealand at Eden Park on Saturday.
Lions attack coach Rob Howley has claimed that he has noticed one major personality difference between the two scrummagers during his time on the tour with the squad.
According to Howley, the Lions first Test captain Peter O’Mahony is “a very quiet person.”
O’Mahony is well known for his unassuming, business-like nature. O’Mahony is a leader in his actions more-so than his words. This on-field grit, determination and inspiration is what has earned him his role as captain for the Lions.
O’Brien, while being similar to O’Mahony in his on-field tenacity and hunger, is a lot more vocal than the Corkonian.
“You certainly hear Sean, I can tell you.” claimed Howley on Friday afternoon in Auckland.
The Carlow man has had his career blighted with a series of injuries over the last few years, but now a pair of powerful displays against The Crusaders and The Maori All Blacks respectively has hinted at a return to form.
As well as performing well on the field of play, his vocalness and his communication are hugely benefitting his team-mates.
“Sean is a very motivational person,” said Howley. “His performances on the field have suggested he’s back to his best. He’s very powerful, he’s very dynamic, he’s very strong.
The 30-year old brings a well-rounded blend of communication and on-field physicality to the game. ‘The Tullow Tank’ has earned a reputation for himself, not just in the northern hemisphere, but even in New Zealand according to Howley.
“I know the New Zealand back row hugely respect Sean O’Brien. When you’ve got a New Zealand back row as experienced as they are respecting a player I think that says a lot about the player himself.
“He leads by his actions and his words. He’s one of the few players who can, and I’m sure that he’ll have a very potent display on the weekend.”
O’Brien is famed for his explosive carrying game, while O’Mahony according to coach Warren Gatland plays in a different way.
“When you pick a forward pack, sometimes it’s not about having the most explosive individuals in a forward pack, you need a bit of glue – Peter O’Mahony is sometimes that glue,” said Gatland.
They may have their differences, but in their overall effectiveness, they’re so similar too.
