Sport

Lot of work to do - Contepomi

FELIPE CONTEPOMI admitted this was probably his last time playing in Ireland

GAVIN CUMMISKEY at the Aviva Stadium
Mon Nov 29 2010 - 00:00

FELIPE CONTEPOMI admitted this was probably his last time playing in Ireland. With that in mind, his departure is tinged with sadness considering the multiple majestic performances he produced down through the years for Leinster.

Yesterday, captain Contepomi admitted the Argentina national team are in the valleys of progression to return to the heights attained at the 2007 World Cup.

“We are miles away, if we are realistic,” Contepomi admitted.

“The World Cup in 2007 came from a team that needed to fail in 2003 to recognise what was needed.

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“We don’t want the next World Cup to be a failure to prepare for the following one (in 2015) but definitely we have a lot of work to do.

“Unfortunately we have only one or two games before the World Cup so hopefully the three months’ preparation before the World Cup will give us a chance to gel.

“We need to do the good things more regularly.”

We couldn’t let Contepomi disappear into the memory bank of Irish rugby without some words about his former understudy and how Jonathan Sexton has managed to fill the void left by the good doctor’s departure to Toulon in 2009.

“He is getting more confident. Well, he has always been confident but for the Irish team he is getting better and better. It is really nice to see this, especially with a very important Six Nations and the World Cup.”

Time ticks on for the 33-year-old who returns to France with a wealth of memories and gratitude, even from his old enemies down in Munster.

Of course, he couldn’t resist leaving with a parting shot about how Irish rugby people, especially the reporters, are never satisfied.

“It’s funny because I was here for six years and people complained that the team never rotated and now that they rotate people complain about that.

“I dunno. Journalists always complain about everything.”

This is true.

“I think it is good for Ireland. I think they are finding a solid group, young guys showing they can play at international level and play well. I think Irish rugby is going to be good for the next few years.”

And the Aviva?

“I have played at Croke Park and the old Lansdowne Road and to play here is an honour.

" I will tell my grandchildren that I played at this beautiful stadium.

“Today wasn’t a full house but a full house will be intimidating for every team.”