Anthony Foley’s Family Deliver Special Message Thanking Ireland

A special moment.

As Ireland faced the infamous All Blacks Haka before their memorable victory, the entire team lined up in a figure of eight in honour of the late, great Anthony Foley. The former Munster and Ireland legend tragically past away only a few weeks ago and the game marked the first time Ireland had played since his passing.

Following Ireland’s awe-inspiring victory, captain Rory Best spoke to the media about the tribute. Best said that as a team, they felt it was the right thing to do.

It was just something that we talked about, the management and the players. It was very sad news that Munster got a few weeks ago. This was the national team’s first time together since his passing.

We felt it was the right thing to do. We put the Munster boys at the front, for them to lead that. The number eight, it just felt like the right thing to do and it was our way as the Irish national team to show a mark of respect to Axel and his family.

The fabulous tribute didn’t go unnoticed by Anthony Foley’s family.

In a post on the Axel Foley Memorial Page on Facebook on Sunday morning, the Foley family stated:

“To say that we were touched by how Ireland faced the New Zealand haka, drawing inspiration from the No. 8, would be an understatement. Ironically, 15 years ago, Anthony played for Ireland against and lost to New Zealand on a score of . . . 40-29. Last night’s Irish response to the Haka was incredible remembrance.”

A truly special moment, made even better by a simply spectacular performance. Axel would be proud.