Ireland winger Mack Hansen scored this sensational try for Ireland against France at the weekend.
Mack Hansen is a name known all around Ireland since being included in their 2022 Six Nations squad. There was a bit of disbelief among the Irish public when he was named to start on the left wing against Wales in the Six Nations opener. Players such as Keith Earls and James Lowe were unavailable due to injury, and Hansen was given the nod ahead of the inform Robert Balacoune and Simon Zebo.
Hansen, however, proved many critics wrong and Andy Farrell’s ‘gamble’ paid off. Hansen came away with Player of the Match against Wales in their 29-7 win to kick off Ireland’s campaign.
Connacht
Hansen, signed for Connacht ahead of the 2021/22 season having opted to not extend his contract with the Brumbies in Australia.. Hansen qualifies to play for Ireland through his Cork-born mother. Before being signed to a full professional contract with the Brumbies, Hansen had worked as an electrician in Canberra. Hansen, in an interview has gone on record to say “'I was probably the worst electrician in Canberra... I said I would give footy a go”.
Since arriving in the West of Ireland, Hansen has made waves playing for Connacht in the United Rugby Championship (URC). Hansen made his debut for Connacht in their away trip in the opening game of the URC against Cardiff Rugby at the Cardiff Arms Park. However, Hansen was really made aware to the Irish public when he scored a brilliant solo try for Connacht against the Bulls at the Galway Sportsground, returning a kick all the way to the try-line from inside his own half. At the time of writing Hansen leads the league in tries scored, metres made and defenders beaten.
2022 Six Nations
Following his superb performance against Wales, Hansen retained the 11 jersey for Ireland for their clash with Six Nations favorites, France. Going to Paris was never going to be an easy task for Ireland. World Player of the Year, Antoine Dupont scored the opening try of the game which was converted by full back Melvyn Jaminet. Jaminet then added another penalty a few minutes later to give France an early 10-0 lead. Ireland needed a response and that is exactly what was delivered. Off the subsequent kickoff following the Jaminet penalty, Hansen scored. Joey Carbery put the kickoff deep inside the french half, but not far enough that Ireland couldn't contest. Hansen at full tilt, wins the ball and doesn’t break stride. Hansen was completely uncontested in the air by fullback Jaminet and Hansen scored in the corner for his first international try. Carbery converted from out wide to get Ireland back in it leaving the score at 10-7 only 8 minutes into the game.
France built themselves into a half time lead of 19-7 However, Ireland clawed their way back with a valiant second half comeback. The game finished 30-24 in favour of the home side with Ireland coming away with a losing bonus point.
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