Ireland defeated the world champions 19-16 in another thrilling rugby match in Dublin. South Africa had attempted to choke the life out of Ireland's attack by forcing them to make an incredible 166 tackles. But 2 superb tries in the 2nd half saw Ireland home in an epic arm wrestle. A look at how we rate the Ireland player’s performance. Here's your Ireland player ratings.
Ireland Player Ratings
15 Hugo Keenan - 8
He had to make do with an evening of catching balls that were hurled at him because Ireland didn't have much of a ball in attack, but he was brilliant and showed great placement. When given the chance, he fully participated in Ireland's second try.
14 Robert Baloucoune- 6
A quiet enough game for the Ulsterman. Struggled under the high ball in a testing environment for him.
13 Garry Ringrose - 7
He was left to spend the majority of the game on defence, much like his centre partner. He missed three tackles, which will leave him frustrated with his tackle technique. Had some good breakdown moments.
5 November 2022; Garry Ringrose of Ireland is tackled by Damian de Allende, left, Cheslin Kolbe, 15, and Steven Kitshoff of South Africa during the Bank of Ireland Nations Series match between Ireland and South Africa at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin. Photo by Seb Daly/Sportsfile
12 Stuart McCloskey - 7
An impressive 26 minutes in the caldron of test rugby and took the fight to the South African midfield. Like his team, he spent the 1st quarter of the game in defence contributing 9 tackles.
11 Mack Hansen - 7
Looked lively with the ball in hand and finished his try well.
10 Johnny Sexton (Capt.) - 7
Deprived of any meaningful possession in the first half as a result of South Africa's defensive pressure. He would be unhappy in his pass execution given the few chances he had to punish South Africa. Making the courageous choice to back his forwards instead of taking three points early in the second half led to Ireland's first try.
9 Conor Murray -7
He played for 35 minutes on the memorable occasion of his 100th cap before leaving the field after a fantastic break from a Lineout attack. The inaccurate breakdown of Ireland did not assist him in providing service to Sexton.
1 Andrew Porter - 7
Impressive scrum performance but it was his maul defence work was simply outstanding.
5 November 2022; Garry Ringrose of Ireland is tackled by Damian de Allende, left, Cheslin Kolbe, 15, and Steven Kitshoff of South Africa during the Bank of Ireland Nations Series match between Ireland and South Africa at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin. Photo by Seb Daly/Sportsfile
2 Dan Sheehan - 8
Worked on his socks all night. Showed terrific speed and came within an inch of an Ireland try in the first half with a charge down kick, but he ultimately knocked it on. In the second half, under intense South African pressure, his throwing was exceptional. 10 tackles in defence, very aggressive.
3 Tadhg Furlong -7
A significant scrum test was conducted, and he nailed it. Unfortunately, he failed to return to the field in the second half. His first-half defensive organisation was superb.
4 Tadhg Beirne - 7
Got through a lot of unseen work as he tackled himself to a standstill. Came up with some big breakdown moments and contributed with 10 tackles.
5 James Ryan – 8
Came up with a crucial lineout steal just before half time to deny South Africa a 5m maul. His defensive effect was outstanding with 15 tackles.
6 Peter O’Mahony - 8
Just loves the battle of a physical game . Great in the Lineout and maul defence. Chipped in with 8 tackles and countless number of disruptions at the South African breakdown!
7 Josh Van Der Flier - 8
It was simply amazing how he managed to get the ball down for Ireland's first try in the maul. While physically inferior at the breakdown, he is a master of his craft. Top tackler in Ireland with 16 tackles and 5 ball carries.
8 Caelan Doris - 8
Was up for the physical challenge Won the crucial turnover for Ireland’s 2nd try. Tackled his heart out with 14 tackles.
Ireland Player Ratings - Replacements
Rob Herring -6
Lacked the dynamic impact needed for a bench player.
Cian Healy - 5
Great experience off the bench .
Finley Bealham - 7
Came on for Furlong for the 2nd half and straight into scrum action with a scrum penalty win He will dine out on his tackle on Kolbe in the 2nd half and his 2 scrum penalty wins.
Kiernan Treadwell - 7
Is becoming a vital impact player for Ireland with another great bench performance.
Jack Conan - 6
Came on at a vital time and threw himself into the game with some good breakdown work.
Jamison Gibson Park - 8
Impressive performance, Ireland’s attack is just so much better while he is on the field. Great linebreak and timing of the pass for Hansen’s try. Will be disappointed with his kicking game.
Joey Carbery – Only on for 2 minutes (n/a)
Jimmy O’Brien - 7
On in the first half to make his debut in the unfamiliar role of Outside centre with a lively performance when he get on the ball. His left footed exits were a welcome sight with the absence of Lowe. Impressive tackle on Kolbe to prevent a try.
Coach – 7
Another great win for Farrell and his coaching staff. While not perfect they can be pleased with their performance.
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