FANS flocked to social media to pay tribute to Dan Sheehan after he marked his return from injury in style during Ireland’s win over England.
The Leinster hooker scored the fourth try as Simon Easterby’s men came from behind to beat their neighbours 27-22 in their Six Nations opener.
Sheehan came on off the bench for his first appearance since tearing his anterior cruciate ligament just seven months ago.
Wearing a black knee brace, the 26-year-old showed that he had not lost a step when he darted over the line from a James Lowe pass with less than ten minutes.
The emotion on his face was indicative of how much the moment meant for a player whose return from injury defied traditional timetables.
On social media, fans praised him as being among the best in the world.
Dave sad: “For a guy just back from a long injury layoff and with precious little rugby before coming on today Dan Sheehan is just unbelievable.
“He has to be nailed on to start for the Lions, he is the best hooker in world rugby.”
Jim posted: “Simple as, 7 months out and doesn’t seem have lost one bit of skill”
Jack said: “Dan Sheehan is not human. That’s all”
Paddy declared: “Dan Sheehan is one of the premier ballers of my lifetime. Absolute player.”
Buff posted: “Dan Sheehan turned the Game when he came on. NO BREAD, NO WATER, JUST MEATTTT”
There was similar praise afforded to Bundee Aki after his own monstrous contribution in the second-half.
The popular Ireland and Connacht centre powered over in the left-hand corner to bring Simon Easterby’s men level at the Aviva Stadium.
After being found by a looping Sam Prendergast pass, Aki smashed through England talisman Marcus Smith.
And when he was confronted by Alex Mitchell and Tommy Freeman, the 34-year-old battered his way past BOTH to touch down.
Reacting to his display of immense power, fans praised Aki as an “absolute beast”.
Stewart posted: “Bundee Aki. Unreal strength to get over the line.” while Oryna joked: “Bundee Aki running straight at you should be included in a 1000 ways to die”
Harri said: “God, I love Bundee Aki. What a man”
Robert posted: “Bundee Aki doing Bundee Aki things.
“Closing the door halfway isn’t enough and he wins 2 collisions on his way to the tryline. 2 missed conversions worrying for Ireland.”
