Stephen Ferris is one brave man. Four years ago in Ireland's second World Cup game, he rag-dolled Will Genia creating one of the more memorable moments of Ireland's World Cup history.
He's also one of the few men on earth that is brave enough to tell us what Paul O'Connell is really like. On a now famous bungee jumping session in Queenstown during the last World Cup, Ferris has revealed that the Munster legend lost some of the cool that we all assume is just coursing through his veins 24/7.
Speaking to Ladbrokes about the first weekend of the Rugby World Cup, Ferris was asked about the funniest story from a tour he's been on and he lifted the lid on a time when O'Connell had the fear of god struck in him.
When you look at Paul O'Connell what do you think?? Strong, confident, powerful etc etc. But in 2011 when we were in Queenstown just about to jump off a suspended bridge the big man was petrified. He was first up because he was the heaviest. Shaking like a leaf and his knees barely holding him up.
He takes the leap of 134m on a bungee cord. The look on his face before he jumped I will never forget. But I can't slag anyone because I was just as bad, what a days craic.
You can read more of Ferris' thoughts for Ireland's upcoming game with Romania, and a review of the first week of World Cup action.
1. Thoughts on Ireland vs Canada and what to expect v Romania?
SF- It was a very professional and polished performance by Ireland against Canada. They didn't make many mistakes and every time they had a try scoring opportunity, they finished it off. Brilliant team performance.
Romania this weekend in Wembley is going to be an easy game for Ireland. I believe Joe Schmidt will make a raft of changes and that a lot of guys will get to tog out. This is important so that every one of the guys feels part of this RWC. Ireland will pick up where they left off and should put Romania away by 50 points
2. What about that Japan victory?
SF- A result that will keep all the big teams on their toes. It sent shockwaves through the rugby world and I think it is fantastic for the game of rugby. Japan are now a dark horse and if they should make it to the quarter finals, what a story that would be.
3. Do you still think South Africa can win the World Cup?
SF- Yes I do. Why? Because they have big name players in the squad that know how to deal with setbacks. They played a slightly weakened team against Japan, and I feel they won't make the same mistake twice in this tournament. They should make it to the quarter finals and then anything can happen in knockout rugby.
4. New Zealand dug deep to edge the Argentines - they still the team to beat?
SF- They are the RWC champions. They are the team to beat. But it looked like they just hit the switch in the second half and made the Argies look average. Good teams don't always have to play well to get the result. But 9/10 times as the history books show, New Zealand get the result.
5. Are you going to any matches and how good is Ian Henderson?
SF- I am heading to the Italy game. Something that I can't wait for. Hopefully it should be another Irish win.
Iain Henderson is a huge man. A guy with physicality and power which adds so much to this Irish team. He can go on to achieve great things. And hopefully this RWC will put him on the world stage where he belongs.
And if Stephen Ferris dishing the dirt on Paul O'Connell isn't enough, Ladbrokes have a few decent offers for Ireland's clash with Romania on Sunday.
Enhanced Specials
Ireland to win by 50 points or more - Was 7/4 Now 5/2
Both Ireland's starting wingers to score a try - Was 4/6 Now 1/1
One of Ireland's starting wingers to score the 1st try - Was 2/1 Now 3/1
See Also: Stephen Ferris Has Given An Alternative Betting Tip For The Rugby World Cup
Picture credit: Brendan Moran / SPORTSFILE
