An immense, powerful, uplifting tribute to Axel.
Hundreds of Munster rugby supporters were making their way to Stade Yves du Manoir, in Paris, when news broke of Anthony Foley’s tragic, untimely passing.
Bereft and in shock, many chose to carry on to the ground. Comfort in numbers.
What followed was a rousing tribute to a man that helped deliver some of the greatest moments, and memories, in the province’s storied history.
There was a lovely, sustained round of applause in honour of the former Munster player and coach. Racing supporters at the round were only too happy to join in.
They took a reverential step back, though, when a spine-tingling rendition of Fields of Athenry began.
Les supporters du @Munsterrugby saluent la mémoire de Anthony Foley 2/2 pic.twitter.com/uZ4VrBilYo
— Racing 92 (@racing92) October 16, 2016
Following that there was another rendition of a classic Shannon RFC anthem ‘There is an Isle’.
A floral tribute was laid out on the half-way line at the Parisian ground, along with the Munster jersey that Foley wore with such pride.
This is what rugby, and brotherhood, is all about.
Gone but not forgotten. Never forgotten.
