Simon Zebo produced some of the magic moments of the 2013 RBS 6 Nations in a breath-taking curtain raiser at the Millennium Stadium in February.
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The Munster winger lit the touch paper for this year’s competition with the first try of the match between Ireland and Wales before provided a sublime assist for Cian Healy’s try.
Ireland marched into an early lead and were 30-3 ahead just three minutes into the second half, only for Wales to rouse themselves and fight back to 30-22.
It was arguably that stirring comeback that provided the impetus for Wales to go on and win their remaining four matches to successfully defend their RBS 6 Nations crown.
But it was Ireland’s day, thanks in no small part to Zebo. The 23-year-old finished off a fine flowing move in the corner – after a moment of magic from Brian O’Driscoll – for the opening try of the match but it was his backheel, used to control a Rory Best pass which led to Healy’s try that lingers long in the memory.
Zebo was injured in Ireland’s next match against England but it was arguably the form he showed against Warren Gatland’s Wales that earned him a late call-up to the Lions squad.
Injury robbed Ireland of his services during the autumn but he is due to be back for next year’s RBS 6 Nations – will we see some more Zebo magic in the 2014 tournament?
