Kelly deserves more credit for an unparalleled Irish success

JOURNALISTS searched for superlatives to describe the atmosphere in Croke Park for the international rugby fixtures involving Ireland against France and especially for the game against the Auld Enemy.

Superlatives only go part of the way to describe the scene in Croke Park. To fully appreciate the drama unfolding, one had to be a lucky ticket holder. I was privileged to be among the 82,300 at both games and one of my lasting memories is of the two Ulster men, Rory Best and Isaac Boss, arm in arm in the centre of Croke Park, savouring the victory and enjoying the rapturous applause. It was a poignant moment to witness Ulster men in the green of Ireland standing in the centre of Croke Park. All 32 counties were united in the total demolition of the English team.

Nationalistic feelings reached an intensity never before witnessed in Croke Park during Amhrán na bhFiann. The Irish were indeed proud of their heritage.