Casey - Irish need silverware

Exiles skipper in determined mood ahead of semi-final

Last updated: 8th May 2009   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Casey - Irish need silverware

Casey: second semi-final

We've been in the semi-finals before and we're desperate to go one step further. Even though we've made great strides this season if we don't get to that final, it will feel like failure.

Bob Casey
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Club captain Bob Casey insists London Irish's season will be a failure if they do not reach the Guinness Premiership final.

Casey is 'desperate' for some silverware as he prepares to lead the Exiles against Harlequins in the semi-final at the Madejski Stadium

Director of rugby Toby Booth believes Irish have made clear progress since 2006 but admits they must get to the Twickenham showpiece on May 16 to continue their upward curve.

Reaching the last four of the Heineken Cup last year, when they lost to three-time winners Toulouse, pointed to a club capable of challenging at the highest level.

But Ireland second row Casey insists it is now time they start delivering titles.

"We would view it as a failure not to reach the final at this stage," said the club captain. "We've been in the semi-finals before and we're desperate to go one step further.

"Even though we've made great strides this season if we don't get to that final, it will feel like failure.

"This squad has massive potential but we need silverware and we need it soon. Success is judged on silverware - you can't always be building, you have to win things.

Desperate

"This club is desperate for silverware and so are the players. We feel that this is our time."

Preparing for their second appearance in the Premiership play-offs, Irish will be hoping for a better outcome than three years ago.

After finishing third in the table - also their final position this season - they were routed 40-8 by Leicester in a match they entered already satisfied at having even qualified for the last four.

"Reaching the top four last time was the prize," added Casey. "We went to Leicester thinking it would be a bonus if anything good came out of it.

"This time we have a better squad and are more experienced. We've played in big games now and have come out the right side."