NEXT GROUP CAN REPETE OUR SUCCESS

Ireland legend O’Mahony sad to bow out but insists the future is in capable hands

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PETER O'MAHONY exits the Test stage insisting that Ireland are in the right hands to stay with the big boys.

Munster's man of steel was moved by the reception he received as his face flashed up on the big screen at the Stadio Olimpico before he came on for his 113th and final international appearance on Saturday.

As the departing trio of O'Mahony, Conor Murray and Cian Healy went to the 30,000-strong Irish supporters, those in the stands sang The Fields Of Athenry in their honour.

“Our travelling support is off the wall stuff,” O'Mahony said. “It was a lovely touch. Sometimes you push that kind of noise out but I kind of grew a bit taller when I heard it.

“It meant a lot. I've given a lot to the jersey and it was a lovely response to get. I'd love to think it was reciprocated.

“It was a tough Test match. We probably didn't play the way we wanted to but, credit to the group, we found a way.

“Obviously it’s a great day and it’s a tough day for me because I'm leaving behind something I've done for a long, long time - and a group of people that I've a huge amount of respect for and have given a huge amount to me. I hope that they think I've given a huge amount back.