Ireland Summer Tour? Maybe

[Groundhog]

I'd imagine Cooney will leave when his contract runs out, but I can see Doak pushing him soon anyway. Don't see what's not to like about him. Strong guy for a 9, can kick, has pace and a break, is creative and a complete narky *******.

 

[Jakedood]

I'd imagine Cooney will leave when his contract runs out, but I can see Doak pushing him soon anyway. Don't see what's not to like about him. Strong guy for a 9, can kick, has pace and a break, is creative and a complete narky *******.

It's the last bit I love most. Cant take the spice out of a ginger eh?

 

[paddybrown]

Very upbeat idea of Shanahan
From what I've seen he's a poor passer, and box kicker, and other than running good supporting lines which makes him look relevant by scoring a few, his general game play is at best average.
Doak looks promising though, may usurp Cooney in next 2 years, good to have a couple of strong options there, especially given Alby didnt really seem to be all that bothered when he came

By all accounts Matthewson had a miserable time at Ulster. He was brought in on the expectation that Cooney would be away with Ireland and they'd need quality cover, but that didn't work out and he got much less game time than he'd hoped. And thanks to the pandemic he was really lonely off the pitch - his family were back home in New Zealand, and he couldn't socialise with the rest of the team or go out and meet people. By the end he was really demoralised, and it showed in his play. After Cooney got injured Shanahan got more game time and played with a bit more zip.

I'm not advocating for Shanahan to get picked for Ireland or anything. He's no Cooney, but he's a useful player and a reliable backup, and we probably don't appreciate him as much as we should. I'd agree he's not a great kicker, but he's a decent passer, plays with good tempo and keeps the ball moving, and as you say runs great support lines.

 

[big ginger 8]

Ireland's clash with USA in Las Vegas cancelled due to border restrictions https://the42.ie/5557153