Andrew Porter On World Cup Woes “It Was Gutting”
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There was a lot of hype around Ireland heading into the 2023 World Cup. Yet, the All Blacks sent them back in the quarterfinals. Ireland was number one going into the tournament but lost an incredible game. It was particularly heart breaking. It was players like Johnny Sexton and Keith Earls last match in an Ireland shirt. Andrew Porter talks about the disappointment of leaving the World Cup early.
The Disappointment
It was a fantastic four-year cycle for Ireland. They Impressed under Andy Farrell. Ireland looked like they were unstoppable heading into France. Ireland won a Six Nations title and had a great summer in New Zealand. All this made Ireland one of the favourites going into the tournament. Yet, it wasn't delightful due to their early exit. Porter talks about the feeling after the loss.
"I'm still trying to come to terms with it in my head. It was gutting; I have never felt that much of a low in my career." Porter said on The Rugby Pod.
"There was huge hype and expectation and the energy at home. All the fans that had travelled over from Ireland. To create that unbelievable, unique atmosphere that I have never seen before.
"All that linked in together and built up high. Then it's like a roller coaster, it's bang, and it felt like you were at the bottom."
Moving On
Porter then talks about moving on from the defeat.
"I came home and thought great, a different environment, but I had too much time with my thoughts. You start playing everything back in your head. Thinking of everything you could have done better," added Porter.
"I was struggling to be at home after being in such a great environment. Along with all those extraordinary people. For so long – I didn't want to do anything. I wanted to be by myself.
"At the end of something like that, there isn't a debrief – no real closing of the book. I have had to deal with sleepless nights, things playing over in your head, that kind of thing. It's part of the game we play. We were so close, so that is why it was a bit more gut-wrenching."
All quotes via Plant Rugby
Ireland will look to bounce back in the next four years to try and find World Cup glory.