"I couldn't be prouder to be Irish." - Mack Hansen

Ireland rookie Mack Hansen could scarcely have asked for a better debut experience as Ireland powered past Wales in a dominant display which saw Hansen scoop the man-of-the-match award as well.  

The 23 year-old had the crowd on its feet with his first touch of the ball as he broke down the left-hand touchline, nearly creating Ireland’s first try.  

Hansen, who was born in Australia and previously turned out for the ACT Brumbies before making a move to Connacht, qualifies for Ireland through his mother and is proud to be where he is now. 

 “The guys inside me made my job a whole lot easier. Our forwards and half-backs were running great lines and playing really together. 

“That's what we've been working on for the last couple of weeks in Portugal, so to have it all come together like that is really special, in front of a packed crowd as well, it's great to see the fans back here. 

“It's been a dream come true. Everyone here has adopted me as one of their own and I couldn't be prouder to be Irish. 

“I think all my family and friends back home are watching, so shout out to them. I got some special messages during the week, it just made the whole week so special for me. 

“I couldn't be happier, to be honest. 

“It's a great way to start, we wanted this. We have to do the next job and we know that. It's going to be a very tough game in France next week so we've got to make that our focus. 

“We will enjoy this tonight and then focus on France.”