Munster reached so far to sign a fading player who was cut by Racing that they needed IRFU help. That should be reserved for strategic moves for the national team. Not that he had powerful factions supporting him. He never got close to an Irish squad, it’s clear that it wasn’t driven by Faz. If it had been Munster signing him to fill a need in the squad it would have been one thing. It never made rugby sense, and explaining it by referencing his popularity added to the controversy.Sugary tae wrote: ↑January 23rd, 2023, 8:26 pm Don’t get the zebo hate tbh. Conway has barely played a game in 2 seasons. Earls clearly on the way out. I’m not denying he’s at the top of his game (obviously injured a lot this season) but I fail to see how it’s such a poor bet to sign him. Bar L Coombes who I’m a fan of but has yet to set the world alight who are we not starting in the back 3? There isn’t anyone in the academy I’m missing??
I’m reliably told we tried to sign a tighthead but we’re told no dice play the Irish lads.
I get zebo is Marmite but frankly those with such strong opinions i mental put in the same box as the Munster fans who derided heaslip the best Irish 8 bar none. For a guy who’s played for the lions 25 tries in the top14 and managed 10 tries since he’s returned he’s got some ability.
He’s a player who’s courted controversy. And he was happy to play it up when it suited him. It endears him to some, but invited strong opinions.
Watching him play he looks like a player going through the motions. It’s common enough to see guys move for money to finish off their careers and see intensity levels drop.
The game in Ireland has changed in recent years. “Selfish” wingers was fine. Stockdale, Larmour, Lowe were all players who carried or stepped first and passed later. And all had struggles and either adapted or are still struggling. Newer wingers are more like Hansen or O’Brien: still elusive, but also accomplished passers. Their skilfulness stands out. They don’t need to wait until the end of a move and then finish it one on one.