Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Irish Mirror
Irish Mirror
Sport
Oisin Doherty

Try hero Dan Sheehan lost for words after historic home Grand Slam success

Dan Sheehan was lost for words after Ireland secured a historic home Grand Slam success with a 29-16 victory over England at the Aviva Stadium.

The Leinster hooker was the star of the show as he scored a brace on a tense afternoon for Andy Farrell's men. After a slow start, Sheehan popped up with an extraordinary try off a set-play in the 33rd minute to settle Ireland's nerves and put them 8-6 ahead of England.

Despite being reduced to 14-men after Freddie Steward saw red late in the first half, England battled and made things difficult for Ireland.

READ MORE: Johnny Sexton says more to come from Ireland after fairytale Grand Slam success

However, the Aviva Stadium began to believe the Grand Slam was in the bag when Sheehan crossed the whitewash for the second time in the 69th minute.

The speedy hooker was deservedly awarded the man of the match award for his stellar display and in his post-match interview, he struggled to put into words the emotions he felt at winning the Grand Slam.

"This is a hugely special day to win a Grand Slam in front of your own fans. All day they were with us and I don't know what to say really. It's just unbelievably special," Sheehan told Virgin Media.

"I suppose you want to be an Irish rugby player but you want to be a successful Irish rugby player. A Grand Slam is really special for this whole country and I am really proud of all the boys and everyone."

The tension was palpable throughout the stadium as Ireland struggled in the opening quarter of the game. And while the second half saw an improved display, they never hit the heights that they have reached throughout the tournament.

But this is the way things go at times. Great teams have to be able to win while not playing at their best, which Sheehan feels is a valuable tool to have in your locker.

"I think we're going strength to strength and learning valuable lessons. I don't think we played our best game today, but you have to be able to win games no matter which way," said Sheehan.

"No matter what form they are in they will always bring a huge test especially in Dublin. It was the same last year. They're a great team and I am sure they will bounce back."

All eyes now turn to the World Cup which will take place later this year. Ireland will be one of the favourites and the team's thoughts will soon turn to France.

However, for now, celebration is the order of the day.

"We're exactly where we want to be. An exciting few months coming up. We'll enjoy tonight and think about that later on."

READ NEXT:

Get the latest sports headlines straight to your inbox by signing up for free email alert

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.