2022 Guinness Six Nations Review: Ireland
Ireland finished second in the Guinness Six Nations behind Grand Slam winners France.
Ireland won the Championship in Round 1 with a 29-7 victory over Wales. France won Round 2 against Ireland in Paris 30-24. Italy were reduced to 13 men against the experimental side of Ireland, who scored nine tries in a 57-6 win. Charlie Ewels was sent off for Ireland against England in the Round 4 match at Twickenham. Gianmarco Lucchesi went off injured and his replacement Hame Faiva was also sent-off. Ireland won 57 to 6. England drew level at the hour mark.
Van der Flier was an ever-present for Ireland during the Championship. He made 58 tackles, the most by an Irishman, and scored tries against Wales, England, France and Scotland.
Ireland won at Twickenham despite playing with a man less. The scrum was struggling and their attack was not finding its usual fluency.
Mack Hansen made his debut for Ireland against Wales. He assisted Aki with a looping pass and scored his first international try in France the following week.
Ireland will tour New Zealand this summer. The 2022 Guinness Six Nations has demonstrated that Ireland possess the requisite ruthlessness, stoicism and depth not to fear anyone.
