I’m fanatical about sport: there seems to me something almost religious about the fact that human beings can organise play, the spirit of play. ~Simon Gray, 1995
Yesterday was a day for fantastic passion and excellence and thankfully all in the name of Irish sport.
The Ireland and Wales Six Nations match yesterday had everything you want to see in a game. A cagey first half, more open second half; Ireland’s control at the start of the second half, Wales’ intelligent play and kicking for the rest of that half. Then of course there was the winning drop goal by Ronan O’Gara to win the Grand Slam for Ireland, a feat not achieved by an Irish Rugby team in 61 years.
I’m not a passionate Rugby fan, unlike others I know, but even those with little knowledge of the game had to have been swept up in that excitement. Irish and Welsh fans sat side by side in the Millennium Stadium, something that football (Soccer) has yet to achieve. No hatred, no violence, just banter in a great sporting occasion.
Many plaudits should be handed out to both teams for a fantastic game and amazing occasion.
Then later that night another fabulous occasion when Bernard Dunne became a World Champion for the first time in his career. Dunne defeated Ricardo Cardoba in the O2 Arena last night to win the WBA Super-Bantamweight World Champion after the fight was stopped in the 11th round.
Both fighters put in an excellent performance and it was a very close contest until finally Dunne’s will and determination wore Cordoba down. Unfortunately Cordoba had to be stretched out of the ring, although it was reported shortly afterwards that he was out of danger en route to hospital.
Some people think Boxing shouldn’t be considered to be a sport but on occasions there are bouts that showcase very good fighters. Thankfully last night was one of those occasions and both competitors were not seriously injured.
Saturday March 21st 2009 will be remember as a great day for Ireland and for Irish sport.
Sunday, March 22nd, 2009 and is filed under Thoughts & Questions.
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