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.

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