History was made in Auckland earlier this morning after Israel Folau, the Australian and New South Wales Waratahs full-back, broke the all-time record for tries in Super Rugby at Eden Park against the Blues.
Former All-Black and Munster player Doug Howlett had previously held the record when playing in his homeland during the last decade, but the accolade has now transferred to the Wallaby who is sure to add to his 60-try tally over the coming years.
The try was initiated by a Bernard Foley cross-kick which was snatched in the air with a trademark Folau catch before the history-maker touch down to claim the record from Howlett. The famous try, however, wasn't enough to prevent the home side from edging out a narrow 32-29 win.
The full-back described the achievement s "a honour and a privilege" after the game, adding: "There's some great names on the list. But it's a team effort and without the team those things wouldn't be possible."
Izzy Folau becomes the top try-scorer in #SuperRugby history. #BLUvWAR pic.twitter.com/OI5pjd6G5C
— RUGBYcomau (@rugbycomau) April 6, 2019
It was a welcome distraction from the negative publicity the 30-year-old has received in recent times.
As a devout Christian, Folau told followers in an Instagram post that he believed God's plan for gay people was: "Hell. Unless they repent for their sins and turn to God."
After receiving a a raft of criticism for his comments, the Waratahs will no doubt be hoping that the try can be a springboard to a new chapter in the Folau story, which is due to continue in New South Wales until the end of 2022.
Elsewhere, the Rebels thrashed the Sunwolves 42-15 in Melbourne while the Crusaders overcame the Brumbies 36-14 in Christchurch. Yesterday, the Reds and the Sharks recorded wins over the Stormers and the Lions respectively while the Hurricanes came out on top in a cracker away to the Highlanders.
Today's clash between the Bulls and the Jaguares in Pretoria concludes the weekend's Super Rugby action.
