Ireland Fans Left Stunned by what Fiji Players' Did Before Today's Match
Yesterday at 05:54 PM
As the pre-match formalities unfolded at the Aviva Stadium, Fijian players stunned the crowd by bowing or kneeling while shaking hands with President Michael D. Higgins.
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Virgin Media pundit Matt Williams noted that Melanesians are a famously respectful people, and it was clear to see in this moment.
The sight of these towering players taking turns to bow or kneel as they shook hands with the diminutive President Higgins sparked a round of applause from the crowd in recognition.
The gesture also made waves online. Ross Morrissey tweeted: “That was a class moment.”
Lisa Ryan added: “Beautiful.”
Neil Treacy of RTE noted: “Not a hopping atmosphere, but the sight of the Fijian players bowing as they greeted Michael D Higgins, and the crowd applauding them as they did it was actually a lovely moment.”
And finally, Chris Kelly posted: “Fiji rugby players’ tribute to Michael D Higgins was world-class. Peak of respect.”
IRELAND: 52
- Tries: Caelan Doris(04′), Josh van der Flier(14′), Craig Casey(29′), Mack Hansen(41′, 67′), Bundee Aki(46′), Gus McCarthy(63′), Ronan Kelleher(78′)
- Cons: Sam Prendergast(05′, 30′, 42′, 47′, 64′), Craig Casey(15′)
- Pens:
FIJI: 17
- Tries: Kitione Salawa(54′), Setareki Turagacoke(65′)
- Cons: Caleb Muntz(55′, 65′)
- Pens: Caleb Muntz(17′)
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IRELAND PLAYER RATINGS VS FIJI:
15 Jamie Osborne – 4
Despite being subbed off 27 minutes into the game due to injury, Osbourne started the game will, holding down the fort in the back row when Sam Prendergast received an early yellow card 8 minutes in.
14 Mack Hansen – 9
What a game for Mack Hanson. He bagged two tries, and was incredible for Ireland today.
13 Robbie Henshaw – 6
The Leinster player played a solid game, creating a great connection with Bundee Aki.
12 Bundee Aki – 9
Bundee Aki is back! After last week, spending it on the sidelines, he had something to prove. He gave an outstanding performance, bagging himself a try and Player of the Match.
11 Jacob Stockdale – 7
The Ulster player had good game, making some great runs along the wing.
10 Sam Prendergast – 7
After an early yellow card in the 8th minute, Sam Prendergast got back on track and had a good game.
9 Craig Casey – 8
An excellent game for the number 9, scoring a try and being a pivotal part of Ireland’s attack throughout the game.
8 Caelan Doris (c) – 8
What a game for the Captain, scoring the opening try and being a vital part of both Ireland’s attack and defence.
7 Josh van der Flier – 7
Another solid performance, and try-scoring appearance by the man in the red scrum cap.
6 Cormac Izuchukwu – 5
A quiet performance by the number 6, not particularly standing out too much.
5 Tadhg Beirne – 6
A seemingly quiet first half for the usually impactful Munster Player. However, came fighting out the block in the second half.
4 Joe McCarthy – 5
A good performance by the number 5, however wasn’t a stand out player.
3 Finlay Bealham – 5
A seemingly good game for Bealham, but wasn’t the stand out front row.
2 Gus McCarthy – 7
A shaky start for debutant, however he blossomed as the game went on and even scored a try on his debut.
1 Andrew Porter – 5
The Leinster player, had a surprisingly quiet game, not really pulling any attention to himself but working well in the team.
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