Ireland's new all-time record points scorer, Johnny Sexton, has claimed that his new points record is now being eyed up by his young son, Luca.
The Leinster and Ireland star broke Ronan O'Gara's record by securing Ireland's bonus point in the first half of the Tonga game on Saturday night. Further scores from Caelan Doris, Mack Hansen, Tadhg Beirne, James Lowe, Rob Herring (2), and Bundee Aki (2) in the comprehensive 59-16 win.
However, Sexton's achievement was the main takeaway from the night. Sexton has batted away questions about the record all week but opened up about achieving the milestone after the game in Nantes.
“It’s something when you retire and finish, you can look back and be proud,” said Sexton.
“I think my little boy will be over the moon; he was talking about it during the week, and it probably means more to him. He’ll chase it down now! And so will the other 10s.
“It’s there to be broken now, and I’m sure some young guys will be eyeing it up.
1090 AND COUNTING ☘️☘️☘️
Johnny Sexton replaces Ronan O’Gara as Ireland’s record points holder.
What a sensational try to do it!
pic.twitter.com/FPGa68aBs1— Daniel Hussey (@DanielHussey2) September 16, 2023
Ireland's statement win against Tonga will mean nothing if Ireland are unable to follow the performance up with a win over the World champions in South Africa next weekend.
Beating the 'Boks' in Paris next weekend will give Ireland a massive chance of topping the group and avoiding France in the quarter-finals later in the tournament.
Sexton is well aware of the challenge that awaits Ireland next weekend.
“The proof of whether I’m in good form will be next Saturday,” said Sexton, who will retire after the tournament, “you’ve got to go and do it in the games.”
“There’s no point in saying you’re feeling good or whatever. I just take it day by day, make sure I recover well, turn up to training on Monday and Tuesday, and try to put the plan in place to take on the reigning world champions.
“They’ve hit a great vein of form, and it’s going to be a huge challenge for us, but one that we are really excited about and we feel we’re ready for it.”
Ireland's game against the world champions in the Stade de France in Paris next Saturday. The game kicks off at 8:00 pm (9:00 pm local time).
