When Dan Sheehan dived across the try line in Melbourne last Saturday, it looked like another heroic moment in a thrilling Lions victory.
But within hours, that try stirred up a new kind of drama—one focused not on glory, but on legality.
The Irish hooker, known for his power and precision, found himself at the centre of a storm of criticism from Australian fans and officials, who questioned whether his airborne finish was even allowed under rugby’s rules.
But Sheehan isn’t backing down—he says it was legal, smart, and, frankly, necessary.
How Sheehan’s Try Sparked Controversy
During a crucial moment in the second Test at the MCG, Sheehan launched himself over two Wallabies defenders to score from a tap penalty.
The move helped push the British & Irish Lions to a 29–26 win and clinch the series—but it didn’t sit well with Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt, who argued that jumping over defenders is illegal.
Despite the debate, most of the post-match focus shifted to a controversial ruck clear-out involving Jac Morgan.
Still, Sheehan’s flying try remains a talking point, especially among Aussie supporters who felt the call could have gone the other way.
Sheehan Explains His Thinking
Sheehan has now spoken out, explaining what was going through his mind during the high-risk, high-reward moment.
“In the first attempt, I went low and just got absolutely smashed,” he admitted.
“So, the second time, I figured I’d try something different.
I didn’t know if anyone was covering the back. It was kind of a throw-and-hope moment.”
He added, “I know diving is allowed if you’re scoring—at least that’s how I understand it.
I was at full stretch and landed over the line, so why not?”
From Pain to Points: A Risk That Paid Off
The Leinster star, who now has 15 tries in 32 Tests for Ireland, admitted the play wasn’t planned.
The idea was just to get close to the line for another attacking phase.
But after the brutal first attempt, he spotted a gap and instinctively went for it.
“If they caught me high, it probably would’ve been a penalty anyway,” he joked.
“That’s the tough life of a professional rugby player—you’ve just got to figure it out mid-game.”
For Sheehan, scoring tries is more than just a stat on the sheet.
“I love the attacking side of rugby. It’s fun figuring out defences and planning set pieces,” he said. “I’ll take every try I can get.”
From the Bench to the Party
Though he watched the final moments of the second Test from the bench, Sheehan had a front-row seat to Hugo Keenan’s game-winning try.
What followed was a wild, joyous celebration—one he says blurred into “a couple of brilliant days” filled with memories he’ll never forget.
But now, the focus is back on business. With the series already secured, the Lions are aiming for a 3-0 sweep.
According to Sheehan, that’s been the goal from day one.
Eyes on the Clean Sweep
“We’ve been pretty honest in our meetings—we came here to win 3-0,” Sheehan said.
“It would be disappointing if we didn’t show up on Saturday. That’s our mindset.”
He also spoke about the motivation coming from friends, family, and fans who made the long trip to Australia.
“We’ve got loads of people here backing us. That gives us extra energy. And I’m sure the Aussies will be feeling the pressure, too.”
Building Bonds Beyond Rivalries
One of the surprising highs of the Lions Tour for Sheehan has been the camaraderie.
Normally battling it out against players from England, Scotland, and Wales, the tour has allowed those rivalries to soften—at least temporarily.
He’s particularly enjoyed getting to know England hookers Luke Cowan-Dickie and Jamie George.
“They’re guys I’ve looked up to since school, so it’s been really cool to share this experience with them,” Sheehan said.
He also gave shoutouts to players like Ollie Chessum and Ben Earl, admitting it’s been refreshing to see their personalities off the pitch.
“You grow up kind of hating these lads,” he laughed. “Then you meet them and realise they’re actually decent fellas.”
The Friendships May Fade… But the Memories Won’t
As the final Test approaches, Sheehan knows those friendly vibes will soon give way to national loyalties.
“When you pull the Irish jersey back on, it won’t be hard to flip the switch,” he joked.
But the relationships forged on tour might just stick around.
“You see it all the time—like with Tadhg Furlong—guys making lifelong friendships from these tours.
I always wondered what that was like. Now I get it.”
And maybe, just maybe, the next time they face off in the Six Nations, the tackles will still come hard—but the post-match pint might be shared with a smile.