Jerry Flannery has spoken openly about the reception he received from Irish supporters during South Africa’s visit to Dublin — admitting some fans didn’t hold back.
The former Ireland and Munster hooker is now part of the Springboks’ coaching team, and while he still has huge affection for home, his new role hasn’t always been greeted warmly by everyone at the Aviva.
“I have been called a traitor a couple of times at the Aviva.”
Speaking on RTÉ’s Against The Head, Flannery said supporters confronted him directly during the recent Test at Lansdowne Road.
He delivered the line with a laugh, but the message was clear — some fans struggled seeing a familiar face wearing green and gold instead of Ireland’s green.
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A Strange Return to Dublin
Flannery admitted the entire occasion felt surreal. The Springboks beat Ireland in Dublin for the first time under Rassie Erasmus, ending a run that stretched back more than a decade.
For Flannery, coaching against the country he once represented created a mixed emotional night.
“It was a really weird game, very, very strange.”
He praised referee Matt Carley’s control of the match, but felt both sides escaped harsher punishment.
“I thought Carley was strong, but we could probably have had more cards in that game — both sides.”
Despite the dramatic moments and fluctuating momentum, the former Ireland hooker didn’t think either team hit their peak.
“I actually don’t think it was a great performance from either team. Ireland, to be fair, did well when they went down a man.”
Flannery Still Rates Ireland Highly
Even while standing in the opposite coaching box, Flannery remains bullish about Ireland’s future. He believes the current squad and staff have the talent and stability to stay competitive over the coming years.
“In Ireland we’ve been a bit spoiled the last few years. But this group are motivated, it’s tight — there’s massive quality there.”
He also highlighted the depth coming through and insisted there is no reason for panic, despite a period of transition following the 2023 World Cup.
Behind the scenes, his knowledge of Irish rugby has been described as a major asset to the Springbok setup — insight that has not gone unnoticed by those working alongside him.
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Coaching the Springboks: Pride and Pressure
Flannery understands why some fans see him differently now, especially when tensions rise around high-profile Tests. But he insists his focus remains purely professional.
“It’s a sport — people are competitive.”
He acknowledged that hearing criticism from his own supporters can sting, but ultimately he accepts it comes with the job.
His journey from Munster and Ireland to the Springbok coaching team has been unconventional, but he appears settled — and motivated — in his new environment.
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