Leamy ready for heavyweight test
Denis Leamy has vowed Ireland will “fight fire with fire” when they confront South Africa at Lansdowne Road tomorrow.
Ireland’s back row may be dwarfed by the South African loose trio – each player concedes a minimum of two inches in height – but Leamy insists they will not take a backwards step.
The Munster number eight, who will pack down alongside Neil Best and David Wallace, is confident technique will be enough to combat the mighty Springboks forwards.
“We’ll be looking to fight fire with fire against South Africa. They’re a massive side,” he said. “I’ve never played against South Africa, but everyone knows about their massive packs.
“They’re big men and we’ll be up against it physically. We’ll just have to use our technique to gain the edge.
“Our aggression has to be right up there if we want to win the collisions. Hearing about South Africa’s reputation focuses the mind.
“Every international is going to be hard, but this more so than most. I’ll be clued in for this match, and that’s when I’m be at my best.”
What Ireland’s back row lack in height they make up for in aggression, with Leamy and Best both known for their abrasive style.
The duo were volatile characters – Best admitted he was once viewed as a ‘screwball’ by opponents – but Leamy insists they now play with more self control.
“I’ve played with and against Neil, and what you see is what you get. He puts his body on the line – it's horrific sometimes,” he said.
“He puts in big hits and brings people into the game. He’s a player you have to admire, and I’m looking forward to playing alongside him again.
“Possibly my aggression used to boil over a bit – that’s been well documented. When we started we were both inexperienced, and little things upset us.
“It hasn’t been a problem for me for a year or two now. I try to channel it in the right direction – but you can’t afford to lose that edge.”
Leamy has filled every position in the back row but has now nailed down the number eight jersey for Ireland, although he realises the competition means poor form will not be tolerated.
“I played at number eight as an experiment to see how it went. Things went well, and I’ve played there for a number of games,” he said.
“You always have to keep on top of your game and make sure you’re playing well, because there are so many quality players in the back row – especially at number eight.
“You don’t dwell too much on losing the jersey but you have to be realistic - look at the guys behind me like Jamie Heaslip. They’re playing very well and they keep you on your toes.”
