Oh we’ll take that for a start to Rugby World Cup 2019.
A bruising defeat of a ragged Scotland side. A ravenous display of the hunger and the work-ethic that has Ireland ranked World Number One in the first place.
And the best yet? None of the injuries picked up are all that serious. All the running repairs are going to plan.
Most worrying in Yokohama were the first half bangs which forced both Peter O’Mahony and Bundee Aki off the field for HIAs. Sexton was also restrained as shown by the decision to let Conor Murray take the place kicks while Josh van Der Flier also had to be replaced.
But Ireland’s walking wounded are making good progress. O’Mahony and Aki both passed their HIA 2. HIA 2 is an ‘early medical evaluation within 3 hours of the match which assesses clinical progress and determines an early diagnosis of concussion.’
In plain English, it’s not yet an all clear but it does bode well.
HIA 3 is the real acid test which confirms whether concussion was sustained or not. That will take place later today.
Meanwhile, Johnny Sexton’s was taken off for ‘tactical’ reasons while Josh van Der Flier was suffering from cramp. Signs are that these lads will be ready for Japan on Saturday while Earls, Kearney and Carbery are also rearing for action.
Update: @peterom6 & @bundeeaki12 passed HIA 2 post game will undergo HIA 3 later today. Not ruled out for next game. @JohnnySexton took a bang to thigh but tactical replacement. @joshvdf – cramp but ok
Rob, Keith & Joey all ok. #teamofus #ShoulderToShoulder pic.twitter.com/5kfqDQCdlE
— Irish Rugby (@IrishRugby) September 23, 2019
Lovely stuff.
