Mack Hansen conveyed his sentiment that Ireland “resonates as home” after achieving a first-half hat-trick during an emphatic 46-19 triumph against his birth nation, Australia.
Hansen, originally from Canberra, assumed the full-back position for the first occasion at the international level and commemorated his recovery from a foot ailment by successfully crossing the try line thrice within the initial 28 minutes, much to the enjoyment of the packed Dublin audience.
Subsequent tries executed by Caelan Doris, Ryan Baird, and Robbie Henshaw guaranteed that head coach Andy Farrell once more emerged victorious against former Ireland leader Joe Schmidt.
Ireland’s preceding most substantial victory margin against Australia amounted to 15 points – a 27-12 result in 1979 in Brisbane and a 21-6 accomplishment in 2006 in Dublin.
Hansen, whose maternal lineage originates from Cork, initially sustained the injury during the British and Irish Lions tour this summer, hindering his opportunity to confront the Wallabies on his native soil.
“In all honesty, my track record with injuries has been rather unremarkable,” remarked the Connacht back, who also garnered attention by donning one black boot and one white one, during an interview with TNT Sports.
“I missed being a part of this team. I recognize that there is considerable discourse regarding my place of birth and upbringing, but I harbor a deep affection for this team, and it genuinely feels like home to me.”
“Each instance I am afforded the opportunity to represent Ireland is a privilege, and if one fails to deliver a commendable performance, that privilege may be rescinded,” he added.
“My primary objective this week was to exert myself and contribute to the best of my abilities.”
Australia trailed by a mere five points at the half-time interval following converted tries from Len Ikitau and Fraser McReight, and they secured a late consolation through Billy Pollard.
Nevertheless, Ireland justly earned their victory as they geared up to conclude their autumn campaign on their home turf against reigning world champions South Africa in the upcoming weekend.
Fly-half Sam Prendergast contributed seven points, encompassing a drop goal, for the commanding hosts, before his replacement Jack Crowley added an additional nine points.
Farrell guided the Lions to a 2-1 series win over Schmidt’s Wallabies during the summer period, building upon Ireland’s 22-19 triumph over the same adversaries last November.
In reference to Hansen’s return, having previously earned his 28 caps on the wing, Farrell commented: “Initially, my thoughts revolved around whether he would perform adequately in those mismatched boots. He certainly attracted attention to himself even before the match commenced.”
“I conveyed to him before the game that proficient players do not require justifications, they simply proceed and remain authentic to themselves. I suggested that he could potentially secure the man of the match award if he so desired, to which he responded affirmatively.”
“He embodies that particular type of player. He diligently prepares himself and possesses a commendable attitude towards mastering the intricacies, which is why he seamlessly integrated back into the team.”
