Conor Gilsenan is hoping he can make it a hat-trick of British and Irish Cup winner’s medals this season.
The Irishman, 24, has lifted the cup on two occasions having featured in the 2013 and 2014 finals for Leinster ‘A’ against Newcastle Falcons and Yorkshire Carnegie respectively.
Joining the Exiles in the summer of 2014, the former Clongowes Wood College student is relishing his time in the ‘Big Smoke.’
“London is a fantastic place to live,” Gilsenan said ahead of this Saturday’s Pool 3 clash against Ospreys Premiership Select (kick-off 2pm).
“I’m meeting lots of new people, playing rugby and studying – there’s a lot to keep me busy and I’m really enjoying my time with London Irish,” he added.
Gilsenan returned to the Emerald Isle at the weekend, and the back-row was delighted with the way in which his side showed a clinical edge as Irish put the Eagles to the sword in emphatic fashion.
“Everything came together on the pitch and that’s reflected off it too with the fantastic team spirit that we have at present.
“We are obviously striving for promotion back to the Premiership at the first time of asking, but the British and Irish Cup is still of value to us as it generates momentum when we return to league action,” said Gilsenan.
Gilsenan is one of a number of Irishmen plying his trade overseas and the abrasive ball carrier admits he has ambitions to play for his country.
“My ultimate goal is to play for Ireland and that’s all I’ve wanted to do since I was young,” said Gilsenan.
“To do that you have to play rugby and the best place for me to do that is with London Irish – my friends are taking a different route in the provinces, but my journey at the moment is in England and I’m loving it,” he added.
London Irish round-off the pool stages of the British and Irish Cup by hosting an Ospreys Premiership Select at the Madejski Stadium on Saturday 21st January (kick-off 2pm).
Tickets for the game are available by calling 0118 968 1016 or click here to purchase online.
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