Hugo Keenan has paid tribute to Mack Hansen for the support he showed him during his injury struggles, revealing how his Ireland teammate celebrated his success even while sidelined himself.

Keenan marked his first home Ireland appearance in 21 months with a hat-trick in Friday night’s 42–12 win over Argentina at the Aviva Stadium.

Hansen, making his own return to international rugby after a year away, helped set up the fullback’s opening try as the pair combined with Robert Baloucoune in an impressive back-three performance. He also put Keenan through for his solo effort.

But their connection extends well beyond what happens on the pitch.

Speaking afterwards, Keenan explained how they had supported each other through their respective spells out of the game.

“I love playing with the two lads,” Keenan said in his post-match interview.

“Obviously, haven’t played with Mack in quite a while. We’ve sort of both been injured at different times, and we’ve got such a good relationship.

“He was brilliant to me when he was injured and, vice versa, I’d like to think as well.”

Keenan recalled one particular moment from the British & Irish Lions tour, when Hansen was among those celebrating his decisive try in the second Test against Australia.

“I think I’ve told you the story about how he was so good to me during the Lions when he was injured. He was the one lifting me up when I got that try in the second Test.”

When Hansen subsequently scored a hat-trick against Australia for Ireland last November, Keenan was delighted to see his teammate enjoy his moment.

“To see him get his day out against Australia, get the hat-trick, get the man of the match, was brilliant.

“I was absolutely delighted for him, and I celebrated with him in the week or two after as well.”

This time, it was Keenan scoring three on his return to the Aviva, with Hansen alongside him in green again.

For the fullback, the competition for places among Ireland’s outside backs goes hand in hand with helping each other succeed.