Nailed it.

Things haven’t exactly gone quite according to plan for Ireland in 2019 so far – but there’s absolutely no need to be pushing the panic button just yet.

The defeat to England was disappointing for a number of reasons. The manner in which Ireland lost as well as the fact that they were at home really hit hard. And while victory followed against Scotland and Italy – Joe Schmidt’s men have so far failed to reach the incredible standards they set last year.

So what’s up? Why have Ireland gone from world beaters against the All Blacks back in November to a team that to some looks like they’re lacking in a bit of confidence?

Fullback Rob Kearney was asked that exact question today and his answer couldn’t have been more perfect. Because they’re human.

“How can an elite athlete go from beating NZ to suffering a crisis of confidence?” a reporter asked Kearney

To which Kearney replied:

“Because elite athletes are people. Same doubts, same fears, same anxieties, same struggles with confidence.” 

Well said. Form is temporary. Class is permanent.