His 2009 Lions tour may have come to an abrupt end but Stephen Ferris is determined to look on the bright side.
The Ireland flanker had made a real impression during his two games on tour, scoring a brace of tries and picking up the man-of-the-match award during Saturday’s win over the Cheetahs in Bloemfontein.
Things appeared to be going well for the likeable Ulsterman but then injury struck and left his tour dreams in tatters.
But instead of feeling sorry for himself, Ferris will look back with fond memories and then look forward with even greater anticipation.
“It’s been absolutely fantastic and I’ve enjoyed every second that I’ve been here,” said Ferris, who had been expected to challenge for a back row spot for the opening Test against the Springboks a week on Saturday.
“I’ve met some great friends and it’s been great to be a part of such a lovely bunch of guys. Hopefully I’ll get another opportunity to do that again in a few years time.”
The injury itself only occurred earlier this week during a training session prior to Wednesday night’s clash with the Sharks but Ferris has chosen to try and get over the disappointment as quickly as possible. For the 24-year-old, there is no point looking back with regret at something over which he as no control.
“It’s probably a four-week injury and I’d be really fighting to get fit for maybe the last Test match,” added Ferris.
“It’s just one of these things. It was just training. I was doing a bit of tackling and I twisted my knee. A couple of guys fell on me and I heard a small pop on the inside of my knee. It was my MCL and a grade two tear.
“As my mother’s always told me, there’s a silver lining to every cloud. You just kick on and look forward to a big season next year.”
