Irish sport - One of the greatest days ever

Many Irish people were not alive when Ireland first completed the grand slam in rugby by defeating Wales at Ravenhill, Beflast, in March 1948.

Wales later denied Ireland the grand slam at the final hurdle in Cardiff on two occasions.

In 1951, Ireland lost out by the narrowest possible margin when the game ended in a draw. But 40 years ago, in 1969, many people will remember that Wales packed more punch on the day.

The game on Saturday could hardly have been closer at the end. Ireland had to come from behind on two occasions. Everything was still in the balance up to the very last kick of the game.

The whole thing might so easily have ended in heartache if Stephen Jones of Wales had replicated his penalty kick from the first half with the final kick of the game. As a result, the Irish victory, in the tense circumstance — staring defeat in the face — made the win all the sweeter.

Irish people who hardly know the shape of a rugby ball shared in the elation of the outcome. This was an all-Ireland accomplishment, and the rejoicing was just as apparent in Dublin, Belfast, Limerick, or Cork.

When Ireland last completed the feat, the triple crown and grand slam were invisible baubles. This time there was silverware to mark each of the achievements.

Following his magnificent contribution to the game, Paul O’Connell, vice-captain, had the honour of accepting the triple crown trophy from Prince William. One sensed that President Mary McAleese was as happy and proud to present the grand slam trophy to captain Brian O’Driscoll, as he was to accept it. He had the added satisfaction of having played a real captain’s part, in having been named as man of the match.

Saturday’s game will be remembered for the excitement, the football, and the achievement in winning what was Ireland’s first grand slam since the championship was extended to six nations, with the inclusion of Italy. Fortunately, unlike 1969, the only memorable punches thrown on Saturday were in Dublin in the boxing arena.

The wins by Katie Taylor and Andy Lee at the O2 arena in Dublin set things up for a great end to a memorable day. Bernard Dunne crowned events by winning the world super bantam weight title in the most impressive style in an enthralling contest that matched the excitement on the field in Cardiff.

Even the Irish betting public regarded Bernard Dunne as a distinct underdog. At one point during the fifth round it seemed that it might be all over for him, but he staged a magnificent fight back. He won by knocking out his opponent in the penultimate round.

His sensational victory crowned what was one of the greatest days ever in Irish sport. It will long be remembered as grand slam Saturday, and millions will recall that they witnessed the events live on television.