A fitting farewell

ONE HUNDRED and twenty eight years after the first ball was kicked in anger, the curtain finally came down on international action at the world’s oldest rugby arena yesterday.

Ever since Ireland lost that opening game against England on March 11, 1878, Ireland has battled for recognition on the world stage. It was somewhat ironic therefore that the last game should feature a side Ireland were meeting for the very first time.

Throughout the week, fitting tributes were paid to the unique atmosphere and challenges that Lansdowne Road presented for a host of international opposition.