Ireland's Rugby Hopes: Keenan Focuses on No Regrets in Six Nations Climax

Hugo Keenan emphasizes Ireland's focus on a regret-free performance against Italy, aiming for a strong finish in the Six Nations despite slim title chances.

Ireland’s full-back Hugo Keenan has expressed the team’s determination to end their Six Nations campaign with no regrets as they prepare to face Italy in Rome this Saturday. Following a disappointing loss to France last weekend, Ireland’s hopes for a third consecutive Six Nations title now depend on other results going in their favor.

Keenan, 28, highlighted the team’s focus on controlling what they can. "Likelihood isn't great for a title win, but we want to know that we have no regrets, that we've done all we can and gotten the performance that we're chasing," he said. The team is prepared to put pressure on England and France in the final day’s matches, hoping for a nervy finish.

Despite securing the Triple Crown with victories over England, Scotland, and Wales earlier in the tournament, Keenan believes Ireland has yet to showcase their full potential. "There's been good performances, but consistently over the Six Nations we know there's a lot more in us," he added. The upcoming match against Italy presents an exciting challenge, as Rome is known to be a tough venue for visiting teams.

Keenan and the Irish squad are focused on applying lessons learned from their loss to France and other games to deliver a cohesive performance. "Can we take not only the learnings from France but the other games and put it all together? It's exciting because [Italy is] a tough place to go," he remarked. Ireland remains committed to finishing the campaign on a high note, regardless of the final standings.

With the Six Nations title race still hanging in the balance, Ireland’s match against Italy will be a crucial test of their resilience and determination. Fans can expect a spirited performance as the team strives to leave nothing on the field.

What to Read Next

Scott Lawson Appointed as Head Coach of Bristol Bears Women: A New Era Begins
Rugby

Scott Lawson Appointed as Head Coach of Bristol Bears Women: A New Era Begins

Former Scotland hooker Scott Lawson named head coach of Bristol Bears Women, bringing a wealth of experience to the Premiership Women's Rugby side.

The Evolution of Rugby: Premiership Rebrands as 'The Prem' for a New Era
Rugby

The Evolution of Rugby: Premiership Rebrands as 'The Prem' for a New Era

The English Rugby Premiership rebrands to 'The Prem' to highlight the league's physicality and intensity, aiming to attract younger fans and enhance viewer engagement.

Henry Arundell's Triumphant Return to England Rugby Squad
Rugby

Henry Arundell's Triumphant Return to England Rugby Squad

Henry Arundell rejoins the England rugby set-up after his stint with Racing 92, aiming to make an impact in upcoming international matches.

The End of an Era: Premiership Rugby's Transformation and the Legacy of Legendary Players
Rugby

The End of an Era: Premiership Rugby's Transformation and the Legacy of Legendary Players

As legendary players like Dan Cole, Ben Youngs, and Alex Goode retire, the Premiership Rugby enters a transformative era, marking the end of a golden generation.

Historic Clash: Bath and Leicester Reignite Rivalry in Premiership Rugby Final
Rugby

Historic Clash: Bath and Leicester Reignite Rivalry in Premiership Rugby Final

Bath and Leicester, two rugby giants, face off in a historic Premiership Rugby final, reigniting their legendary rivalry.

Finn Russell's Triumph: Bath's Historic Premiership Victory After 29 Years
Rugby

Finn Russell's Triumph: Bath's Historic Premiership Victory After 29 Years

Finn Russell leads Bath to a thrilling Premiership victory, marking their first league title since 1996 with a standout performance against Leicester Tigers.

Bath Rugby's Historic Treble: A New Era of Dominance Begins
Rugby

Bath Rugby's Historic Treble: A New Era of Dominance Begins

Bath Rugby ends a 29-year wait for the Premiership title, securing a historic treble under captain Ben Spencer and coach Johann van Graan.

Leinster's Key Players Miss URC Final Against Bulls: A Major Setback
Rugby

Leinster's Key Players Miss URC Final Against Bulls: A Major Setback

Leinster faces a major challenge in the URC final as key players Tadhg Furlong and Hugo Keenan miss out due to injuries. Discover the impact on the team and the match dynamics.

Leinster Dominates Glasgow to Secure URC Final Spot Against Bulls
Rugby

Leinster Dominates Glasgow to Secure URC Final Spot Against Bulls

Leinster triumphs over Glasgow Warriors in a thrilling URC semi-final, setting up a final clash with the Bulls at Croke Park.

Bath Triumphs Over Bristol in Thrilling Premiership Semi-Final Clash
Rugby

Bath Triumphs Over Bristol in Thrilling Premiership Semi-Final Clash

Bath Rugby secures a dramatic victory over Bristol Bears in the Gallagher Premiership semi-final, advancing to the final with a stunning second-half performance.

Bath Rugby's Triumph: A Historic European Challenge Cup Victory
Rugby

Bath Rugby's Triumph: A Historic European Challenge Cup Victory

Bath Rugby secures a long-awaited victory in the European Challenge Cup, marking their first major trophy since 2008 with a dominant performance against Lyon.

Paul Deacon Bids Farewell to Sale Sharks: A Legacy of Rugby Excellence
Rugby

Paul Deacon Bids Farewell to Sale Sharks: A Legacy of Rugby Excellence

Paul Deacon departs Sale Sharks after five impactful years, leaving a legacy of four semi-finals and a strong foundation for future success.

Nancy McGillivray Extends Stay with Exeter Chiefs for 2025-26 Rugby Season
Rugby

Nancy McGillivray Extends Stay with Exeter Chiefs for 2025-26 Rugby Season

Nancy McGillivray renews her contract with Exeter Chiefs, balancing rugby with her physiotherapy training for the 2025-26 season.

Finn Russell Set to Shine in Premiership Final Despite Cramp Concerns - Van Graan
Rugby

Finn Russell Set to Shine in Premiership Final Despite Cramp Concerns - Van Graan

Bath's Finn Russell is expected to overcome cramp and be fit for the Premiership final, as head coach Johann van Graan expresses confidence in his star fly-half.

Scotland's Rugby Revival: Turner Returns for Pacific Tour Amid Key Absences
Rugby

Scotland's Rugby Revival: Turner Returns for Pacific Tour Amid Key Absences

George Turner rejoins Scotland's squad for the summer Pacific Tour, highlighting key team changes and strategic selections by coach Gregor Townsend.

Load More

We use essential cookies to make our site work. With your consent, we may also use non-essential cookies to improve user experience and analyze website traffic. By clicking "Accept," you agree to our website's cookie use as described in our Cookie Policy.