Joe McCarthy put in a stellar performance for Ireland last night as they got their Six Nations campaign off to a winning start against France in Marseille.
Andy Farrell's side were superb as they outclassed their opponents on a 38-17 scoreline.
McCarthy was inspirational at second-row as Ireland put any suggestions of a post World Cup hangover to bed, going over for five tries in the course of the eighty minute encounter.
McCarthy was rewarded for his efforts at full-time as he picked up the Player of the Match medal.
The 22-year-old's family had made the journey over to the French city for the match and just after he picked up the medal he was over to them to soak up the celebrations.
Touching exchange between Joe McCarthy and brother Andrew
Cameras snapped away as McCarthy greeted his family and then they picked up a touching exchange between himself and his brother Andrew.
In what was a heartwarming gesture, McCarthy handed his medal over to his brother who had been watching in the stands.
What do you with your medal when you're named Man of the Match in your first Six Nations game, which happens to be Ireland's biggest ever win over France?
Joe McCarthy gave his medal to his brother Andrew pic.twitter.com/F42qIafopD— Balls.ie (@ballsdotie) February 2, 2024
Joe McCarthy gives his Player of the Match award to his brother Andrew post-match. 💚#FRAvIRE | #GuinnessSixNations pic.twitter.com/sWBWg9EwEm
— Virgin Media Sport (@VMSportIE) February 2, 2024
Andrew himself plays rugby with Seapoint Dragon, a club that provides children and adults with additional needs an opportunity to learn and play tag rugby.
Late last year Andrew also linked up with Leinster to become the squad's 'Culture Captain' which was part of Energia's Rugby for All initiative.
Joe spoke last month to Rúaidhrí O'Connor of the Irish Independent about having Andrew involved with Leinster.
"It's slick,” he said.
"Andrew is just a massive sports fan. He sorta did an ad campaign with Energia and that was filmed in and around the building and he now he is going to be at games.
"He actually got fitted for a Best Menswear suit. We always get a suit after The Champions Cup games. And now he is suited going to the Aviva.
"He has been in the changing room after games. The lads enjoy that as well. Andrew brings a bit of energy into the changing room. It is class. He loves it anyway.”
Joe and Andrew's brother Paddy also lines out for Leinster and in November against Dragons in Newport both Joe and Paddy played on the same Leinster team with each other for the first time.
It was another special moment for the family and Andrew was once again by their sides as they soaked up the moment.
Joe will be hoping to have many more honours on the field for Ireland and will no doubt be dreaming about his brother Paddy one day joining him.
We have no doubt that Andrew will be there to proudly witness it all.
Italy visit Ireland next Sunday in week two of the Six Nations.
SEE ALSO: Peter O'Mahony's Deliberate Approach To Post-Match Interview Summed Up Captaincy Credentials
