The encounter between world champions South Africa and number-one ranked Ireland was always going to be explosive, even with the absence of South Africa’s renowned “Bomb Squad”.
Furthermore, today marks a significant moment for the Irish team as they face Northern Ireland for the first time in the opening game of the 2023-2024 Women’s Nations League at the Aviva Stadium.
If culture enthusiasts had their moment yesterday, today is dedicated to celebrating the pinnacle of athletic achievement.
As a nation, we may not be known for excessive self-praise. Any display of Irish excellence tends to be met with skepticism. Even when Ronnie Delany won gold at the Melbourne Olympics in 1956, there were doubts: “Yeah, but was he really that fast?”
In James Boswell’s The Life of Samuel Johnson, the esteemed doctor remarked: “The Irish are not conspiring to deceive the world with false praise of their countrymen. No, sir; the Irish are honest people – they never speak well of each other.”
If the tide is indeed turning in acknowledging sporting achievements, the credit must go to Johnny Sexton’s team and the outstanding performances of Katie McCabe and her Australian teammates.
The toll and sacrifices made by our elite athletes often go unappreciated as they push themselves to their limits.
Andy Farrell’s team has proven to be a formidable force on the international stage, regardless of tonight’s outcome at Stade de France.
Foie gras is the last thing on the minds of the thousands of fans who have traveled to France, resembling a flock of wild geese.
They have their sights set on something far more rewarding – a taste of victory.
The devastating injury suffered by the exceptional Antoine Dupont is a stark reminder of the unpredictable and brutal nature of professional sport.
It speaks volumes of the stature of the diminutive Toulouse scrum-half that his absence will be deeply felt throughout the tournament.
We all hope for his complete recovery.
And this includes the sea of Irish fans, extending from the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre, although they might have other matters on their minds.
Every match carries elements of intrigue, but tonight’s clash between the physical force of the Boks and the comparatively light Irish brigade presents a unique opportunity for bragging rights.
If size is the sole determinant of success, it is no wonder that many skeptics believe we have no chance. However, in Ireland, that is often seen as an advantage.
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