Johnny Sexton and Ronan O’Gara ‘not talking’ as Ireland points record broken
Ireland fly-half Johnny Sexton has joked that he and Ronan O’Gara are not on speaking terms after the former broke the latter’s points record.
Ireland’s rugby community is abuzz with the news that Johnny Sexton, the country’s fly-half, has broken Ronan O’Gara’s record as Ireland’s highest points scorer. Sexton, at 38 years old, scored the record-breaking points against Tonga in the Rugby World Cup.
A Friendly Rivalry
Sexton and O’Gara, both legendary figures in Irish rugby, have had a friendly rivalry throughout their careers. O’Gara, after retiring from playing, became a coach and is currently the head coach of La Rochelle in France, where he has led them to successive European Champions Cup titles. Interestingly, both of those victories came against Leinster, Sexton’s club team. And it was during Leinster’s dramatic 27-26 triumph over La Rochelle in Dublin that Sexton’s relationship with O’Gara seems to have become strained.
Strained Relations
Sexton, who did not play in the match due to a suspension for verbally abusing a referee, made a joking remark about the state of his relationship with his predecessor in the Irish fly-half position. “I’ve no idea! Ask him,” Sexton responded when asked if O’Gara had sent him a message after breaking the record. “I’m not sure we’re talking to each other after the European Cup final.”
Pride and Future Aspirations
Despite the playful remarks about their relationship, Sexton expressed gratitude and pride in his achievement of becoming Ireland’s record points holder. He also predicted that his young son, Luca, will seek to surpass his own record in the future. Sexton acknowledged that his son was even more excited about the record than he was himself.
“I think my little boy will be over the moon,” Sexton said. “He was talking about it during the week, and it probably means more to him. He’ll chase it down now!”
Sexton also acknowledged that the record is there to be broken, anticipating that young players, including other fly-halves, will have their sights set on surpassing his tally. Yet despite his personal achievement, Sexton made it clear that his focus was on the team’s overall success and the upcoming crucial match against South Africa.
Important South Africa match
Ireland’s attention now turns to their crucial clash against South Africa, a match that may well determine who finishes top in Pool B. Sexton, who has impressed in his opening two games since returning from injury and suspension, understands the challenge that lies ahead.
“The proof of whether I’m in good form will be next Saturday. You’ve got to go and do it in the games,”
he remarked. Sexton recognizes the need to take it day by day and focuses on recovery and training ahead of the match against the reigning world champions.
Conclusion
Johnny Sexton’s achievement in becoming Ireland’s record points holder is a testament to his skill, longevity, and commitment to the game. His friendly rivalry with Ronan O’Gara adds an intriguing layer to his accomplishment, highlighting the competitive spirit that drives both players.
As Sexton looks ahead to the crucial match against South Africa, he remains focused on the team’s success rather than individual accolades. The upcoming clash will undoubtedly test Ireland’s mettle, but Sexton and his teammates are ready for the challenge.
The breaking of records is a natural part of the evolution of sports. As players come and go, new records are set and old ones are surpassed. Sexton’s achievement serves as an inspiration for young players to aim high and chase their own records in the future.
Ultimately, the importance lies not just in the individual accolades but in the camaraderie and team success that rugby fosters. The rivalry between Sexton and O’Gara may be “silent” for now, but the bond between them as Irish rugby legends remains strong.
<< photo by David Clode >>
The image is for illustrative purposes only and does not depict the actual situation.
