It was the moment that flicked Johnny Sexton’s switch from disappointment to anger as the Ireland captain lifted his head to see Rieko Ioane shushing the Ireland fans and cupping his ears after the men in green had come up just short in Paris.
Sexton had to be led away from the All Blacks’ centre who continued to celebrate with his team-mates after they’d booked their place in Friday’s World Cup semi-final against Argentina.
Ireland and their now retired captain may be back at home, but their ears continue to burn as the incident cropped up after Ian Foster had named his team for the clash with the Pumas.
No team is prouder of its own humility, but head coach Foster and captain Sam Cane weren’t too displeased with Ioane’s actions at the end of an epic game that ended 28-24 to the three-time champions.
And, in brushing off Ioane’s actions, Foster took aim at Sexton who was suspended for three games for his behaviour towards the match officials after the Champions Cup final last May.
