A special reception for a remarkable servant to Irish rugby. Today's win over Wales marks Rory Best's last appearance on Irish soil and the crowd made their appreciations known.
Ahead of the World Cup in Japan, Best could hardly have wished for a better send-off. Ireland outclassed Wales in a 19-10 victory and they now enter the tournament having regained some of the momentum lost in the past few months.
Best will retire after the World Cup, brining to an end a glittering career. He will hang up his boots as one of the most successful players in Irish rugby history, winning four Six Nations titles, including two Grand Slams.
He was interviewed on RTÉ after today's game, and the reception he received from the home crowd was simply stunning.
Rory Best shares his thoughts with the Aviva Stadium crowd after his final home appearance for Ireland #rterugby #IREvWAL #RWC2019 pic.twitter.com/2bMWgtQFf1
— RTÉ Rugby (@RTErugby) September 7, 2019
I told myself I wouldn't get emotional, but this place has been unbelievably special for me over many, many years. The support we got today has summed up the support we have got throughout my career here.
I'd just like to thank all the boys out there... I'd like to thank my family, most of the are here, some are at home. I'd just like to thank the supporters, everyone here today, everyone at home, everyone who has supported me throughout career.
It's been unbelievably special to play for this country.
Best will be hoping to make one final push for silverware when Ireland open their World Cup campaign against Scotland in under two weeks.
They go to Japan as the world's top ranked team, with the win over Wales putting them top of the world rankings for the first time. Of course, all of that will matter little if they do not get over their quarter final hoodoo in Asia.
