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Heated exchange between Sexton and Ioane caught on camera
By Ian Cameron
An angry exchange between Ireland flyhalf Johnny Sexton and All Blacks winger Rieko Ioane was caught on camera in the aftermath of last night’s epic Rugby World Cup quarter-final in Paris.
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In a heart-wrenching conclusion to Ireland’s World Cup, the men in green’s dreams of making history were dashed as they fell to a 28-24 defeat at Stade de France.
The clash had been intense from the kickoff, with Ireland desperately trying to fight back after New Zealand took an early and ultimately insurmountable lead. Bundee Aki and Jamison Gibson-Park scored tries for Ireland, and a penalty try added to their tally, but it was not enough to outpace the All Blacks, who showcased their rugby pedigree with tries from Leicester Fainga’anuku, Ardie Savea, and Will Jordan.
The thrilling encounter left fans on the edge of their seats, and it was a game that was fiery throughout. However, it carried on after the 80 minutes when a heated exchange between Sexton and Ioane was caught on camera.
As the final whistle blew, it was evident that emotions were still running high. Sexton, who had been involved in verbal exchanges with New Zealand players during last year’s series win in New Zealand, appeared to take exception to something said by Ioane. The brief confrontation was captured by cameras, highlighting the tension that had carried over from their previous encounters and how much it meant to the Irish veteran.
— Michael Cuthbert Photography (@mikecuthbertuk) October 14, 2023
With Ireland’s hopes of making it to the semi-finals crushed, it also marked the end of Johnny Sexton’s illustrious career.
The Irish captain, who kicked seven points in the game but missed a crucial penalty, was visibly disappointed as he walked off the field for the last time in international rugby.
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For the Irish team and their passionate supporters, it was a heartbreaking end to a remarkable 17-match winning streak.
“I’m very proud of the boys, the nation, we couldn’t have done any more, it’s just fine margins,” said Sexton after the game. “They sucker-punched us on a few tries and that’s what champion teams do. We knew they were a great side and we fell just short unfortunately.”
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The writer here ignores the fact that, following on from not taking the penalty kick, the All Blacks did manage to score a try a few minutes later. Not directly from the penalty awarded, but it is speculation to say that had they opted to take the koi they would have won. Even if they kicked it, which was no guarantee, they would still be trailing and would have had to start again at half-way.
Go to commentsI would be surprised if Sales Opoku Fordjour and Northampton’s Tommy Freeman are not in the team, Anthony Watson is also one that could go on the wing. One thing I must say is that the front 3 will get destroyed against a team like South Africa.
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