At a time when Irish rugby on the cusp of its 150th anniversary is arguably at its zenith, a passage of play in one of this year's Six Nations matches in Cardiff was irresistibly reminiscent of the days when the 'Garryowen' proliferated in Irish rugby. And it was no coincidence that Ireland were Wales' opponents that day as the 'Garryowen' has always been regarded as an Irish invention.
The 'Garryowen' is best described as a high tactical kick designed to put your opponents' defence, and particularly its full back and wings, under intense pressure while your teammates race up either to catch the ball or immediately envelop the tackler who ideally then spills the ball to your team's advantage. In the hands and feet of an expert kicker such as Jonny Sexton or Dan Biggar in February it can bring huge territorial advantage, but badly executed can leave your side open to devastating counter-attacks.
