Taoiseach leads tributes to Irish rugby team
Saturday, 21 March 2009 22:48
The Taoiseach has led the tributes to the Irish rugby team who have won the Six Nations grand slam for the first time since 1948.
The final score at Cardiff's Millennium Stadium was 17-15.
Tries from man of the match Brian O'Driscoll and Tommy Bowe, both within six minutes after the interval, put Ireland on course for victory.
Irish fly-half Ronan O'Gara dropped a goal three minutes from time give Ireland the lead.
A last minute penalty for Wales shredded Irish nerves, but Stephen Jones's kick fell short.
Speaking after the game, Captain Brian O'Driscoll said he delighted with the win.
The Taoiseach said it was a privilege to be in Cardiff and witness the team's remarkable determination and will to win.
Mr Cowen said: 'It has truly been a most memorable season in Irish rugby history and great credit is due to the Coach Declan Kidney, Team Captain Brian O'Driscoll and the entire playing squad'.
The Minister for Sports, Arts and Tourism, Martin Cullen said the team was deserving winners of the highest accolade in northern hemisphere rugby.
President McAleese, who attended the game, said the country should be proud of the team's historic win.
Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny described the result as a magnificent achievement saying it was truly a day 'when you can be proud to be Irish'.
A civic reception for the team is to be held at the Mansion House in Dublin at 4.30pm tomorrow.
- Nine News: Paul O'Flynn reports that Ireland have been crowned grand slam champions for the first time since 1948
- Nine News: Evanne Ní Chuilinn reports on the celebrations in Cardiff after Ireland's nail-biting win at the Millennium Stadium
- Nine News: Evanne Ní Chuilinn talks to the victorious Irish players, management and fans after the grand slam win at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff
- Nine News: Conor Mark Kavanagh reports on the celebrations and drama experienced by fans who watched the match in Ireland
