IRISH RUGBY HAS lost another talented, young player to early retirement as Munster today confirmed that Johnny Holland’s playing days are over.
The out-half has been battling with an ongoing hamstring problem initially picked up during a Munster ‘A’ game against Nottingham in November 2014.
Holland, a Munster Rugby graduate who also represented Douglas, Sundays Well, UCC and Cork Constitution as a youngster, recovered to play seven times for the province last season and scored his first competitive try against Leinster at the Aviva Stadium.
However, on the week of his 25th birthday, the Cork native has been advised to call time on his career by medical staff after making a total of 11 senior appearances since his debut three years ago.
“This has obviously been a very tough time for me, and ultimately it is a decision that has been taken out of my hands,” Holland told Munster Rugby.
“It is something that I have tried very hard to overcome but unfortunately it has become impossible for me to win this battle. As much as this is beyond my control, I don’t want to look back on my career with any sadness.”
“Rugby has given me so many opportunities and I have learned so much from the experience, with fantastic memories and friends for life. I am very proud to have represented my home province, especially at the end of last season, and am thankful for the support from underage rugby all the way up.
I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the medical team, strength and conditioning staff and coaches that helped me throughout my career, and special thanks must go to my family, girlfriend Chloe and close friends for their unwavering support.
“I believe this is an exciting time for Munster Rugby and while I am hugely disappointed that my time has come to an end I look forward to supporting from the stands, and to the next chapter.”
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I wouldn’t be getting too excited about a win over Eibar, even with a front six of Kroos, Modric, Rodriguez, Benzema, Bale and Ronaldo they are still a long way behind Barcelona in terms of quality and class. They were annihilated by Barca, all over the field.
They way their ‘fans’ treat their players at times is nothing short of embarrassing. Keylor Navas is a top keeper though, wouldn’t have been too disappointed in hindsight if he had gone to United.
Great game of football.
Two excellent teams playing the game the way it should be played. Honesty, integrity, courage, passion and commitment. (no theoretical formulas from the manual here – this was the real deal)
Eibar are a strong determined outfit who make it extremely difficult for any visiting team. Disciplined, organised and efficient. No one leaves here with an easy three points, that’s for sure.
Real took the game to the hosts, played some beautiful intricate passing movements at times, ran the midfield and dominated for much of the afternoon.
Yet.
Yet, the game was still in the balance until the closing moments when Real were awarded a penalty for an absolutely shocking challenge by Garcia on Vazquez in the box. One of the most blatant penalties I’ve ever seen actually.
But it still had to be converted (and that’s no easy matter – just ask Neymar and Messi who is a repeat offender in the art of missed pennos)
Penalties require courage and poise, above all …..courage.
Who took on the mantle of responsibility at such a vital juncture in such a crucial game at such a pivotal moment in the season?
Step Forward Cristiano Ronaldo. Absolutely fearless (as usual)
This kid has it all. That’s why Cristiano is back to back Balon d’OR winner. A jury of his peers decided that he is the greatest player on the planet bar none.
And quite rightly so. I fully agree with them.
More skill in his left toe than most other players on the planet. More fire in his belly than any cage fighter. More courage than a lion.
Up he stepped and coolly slotted this vital goal home. We all breathed a huge sigh of relief.
Thankfully Real are over that little slump in form which unfortunately coincided with the Classico and now look like they will press on in pursuit of another league title. Barcelona fans will have been casting nervous glances at the scoreboard all afternoon and now their biggest fears have been realized.
The Real attack is back on track.
Flying high in the Champion’s League also, the competition they have made their own, this will be another exciting season for fans of this great club.
And with the world’s best player leading the front line it’s not difficult to envisage Real Madrid having another gloriously successful season in the tradition of many many others before.
Bravo lads.
That’s all I can say.
ps
Fantastic photo of Cristiano and Gareth celebrating together.
These two guys have really bonded lately.
Such a joyous moment.
Fantastic for Real.
Wonderful for football.
Be honest!! Who read all of this? Every word??
Vamos Atleti.
Oh right they’re 3rd