Players swap boots for bow ties

Leinster’s all conquering rugby stars swapped their boots for bow ties as full-back Rob Kearney was crowned the province’s player of the year at a Mansion House ceremony.

The event, which honoured a host of players, clubs, backroom team members, and followers, was attended by players and their partners including Brian O’Driscoll and Amy Huberman, Gordon D’Arcy and Aoife Cogan, and Leo Cullen and Darine Kennedy.

Kearney was crowned Bank of Ireland player of the year while Ian Madigan claimed the Powerade young player of the year. Brian O’Driscoll won try of the year for his try against the Cardiff Blues in the Heineken Cup quarter-final.

The players and partners were treated to top-class entertainment on the evening with Aprés Match’s Barry Murphy hosting the event, followed by music from Smash Hits.