Ireland’s second-half collapse allows USA to secure stunning comeback win in Tallaght

This will hurt, physically and emotionally. Ireland were left to rue a second-half collapse that would have seemed far-fetched or fanciful in the opening 50 minutes as they manoeuvred their way into a 31-12 lead, only to concede four converted tries, two while a player short, as the USA made their superior power tell.

For American head coach, Skerries born Jack Hanratty, it was a noteworthy return to his hometown and he was understandably proud of his team. He picked out a “clinical set piece” and a performance based on a 23-player contribution as pivotal to the outcome. As comebacks go, it was a doozy.