ON WHAT MIGHT prove to have been his final home appearance for Leinster, Gordon D’Arcy received a superb reception from the RDS crowd this evening.
The 35-year-old was a second-half replacement and was greeted loudly by the Leinser faithful, who were also invited to show their appreciation for the veteran centre post-match.
D’Arcy has announced that he will retire at the end of October, though he hopes to play in the World Cup for Ireland in the opening months of next season. If he fails to make Joe Schmidt’s squad, he may well play again for Leinster at home.
For now, fans at the Dublin venue showed their respect for a legend of the game.
There was also hearty applause for Leinster hero Shane Jennings at half time, the flanker having confirmed he will retire at the season’s end. Unfortunately, the former Leicester Tiger is currently struggling with the effects of concussion and missed out on playing this evening.
I don’t see how playing in France is going to prolong his career. Best of luck to him though. A great city and a club on the rise again.
@Cian Nolan: ya didn’t get that. Thought maybe he meant he’d make more money??
Toulon are putting together some pack for next year.
@Darren Byrne: Hopefully Toulouse will be able to challenge them with the addition of Arnold.
@Darren Byrne: Toulon, Toulouse, meanwhile the French youngsters get less and less prime exposure at the top level, the demise of the French team is a bad development for NH rugby.