Bruff’s gentle giant bids a fond farewell

NO matter how much John Hayes achieved on the rugby pitch, there was a broad section of rugby fans and pundits who constantly criticised his qualities as a scrummager.

Hayes never allowed such words upset him but yesterday, Munster coach Tony McGahan and long time teammate Mick O’Driscoll made no secret of their resentment of such attitudes towards the country’s first rugby centurion.

McGahan has worked closely with Hayes since 2005, initially as defence and backs coach, and since 2008 as director of rugby in the province. He bristled yesterday when reminded of those who questioned the international star.