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Irish ruggers win South Africa opener

February 15, 2011

By Staff Reporter

By Mark Jones

Ireland’s 48-35 win over Boland in the opening match of the tour to South Africa was overshadowed by the loss of winger James Topping, who broke his collar bone in the first-half.

Topping returns home this week and will be replaced by Justin Bishop (London-Irish). Jonathan Bell also had to retire injured and will now be given 10 days to see if his damaged hamstring responds to treatment. If not, he too will be on is way home.

The unfortunate Topping had scored two excellent tries prior to his injury, while Bell had also been playing extremely well.

Despite the injury problems, Ireland were delighted with their tour start. They produced an excellent performance against Boland, running in some great tries while Eric Elwood’s place-kicking accuracy was another major plus.

Ireland led 24-7 at the interval, and while Boland recovered well in the second half, Ireland had enough in hand to get their seven-match tour off to a winning start.

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“We scored 48 points and that was pleasing,” said coach Warren Gatland. “When was the last time an Irish side scored that much? We’re not getting carried away but it was a good start and we now have plenty to build on.”

Ireland play SW District on Wednesday before moving on to their first really big examination against Western Province next Saturday.

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