Eighty minutes went by,
Went by like a flash.
There they were on the pitch,
Thirty men, fifteen on each side
Knocking seven bells out of each other.
The holders of the world cup
Playing the current best team in the world,
A match of staggering skill
And formidable power,
A game I was totally lost in.
They crashed into each other
With so much solidarity
As if they hated each other,
Both determined to win at all costs,
But always played within the rules,
The rules of Rugby Union.
The final whistle blue,
The match had ended,
So much skill,
So much power was shed,
Shed on that pitch
But only twenty one points were scored,
Thirteen to Ireland,
And eight to South Africa.
A thoroughly enjoyable match for me,
For me to see.
Then at the end I was almost in tears
As these huge men
Who had knocked hell out of each other
Came together in harmony,
Shaking hands and cuddling,
Showing their strength of character
That they had in this wonderful game
Where acrimony disappears at the end,
At the end of each game,
Such a beautiful game.
- Author: Goldfinch60 (Pseudonym) ( Online)
- Published: September 24th, 2023 01:24
- Comment from author about the poem: I watched Ireland verses South Africa in the Rugby Union World Cup last night, what a spectacular match. The video shows the respect each other had for each other at the end of the match.
- Category: Special occasion
- Views: 14
Comments10
Good write Gold. Did any throw their toys out of their pram, as in some football?!
No not at all, complete respect for all especially the referee.
Andy
I'm sure half of football managers are insane - ranting and raving on.
Ah, I used to live right near Twickenham stadium, you just brought back some wonderful memories ❤️
So pleased about that Teddy.
Andy
Union, a thugs game, played by gentlemen.
So true 2781.
Andy
I’ve admired Rugby fir the exact reasons conveyed in the piece. Fiercely competitive but the ultimate sportsmen. It’s beautiful.
Yes it is so very true Bobby, there is so much honour and respect after every game.
Andy
Yes it is so very true Bobby, there is so much honour and respect after every game.
Andy
Great match and a wonderful tribute poem.Well done.
Thank you David, much appreciated.
Andy
A wonderful point. Competition does not mean animosity but instead respect. A good write
Very true soren, thank you.
Andy
Still trying to understand Union. There are utube explanations, which I resorted to after your enthusiastic endorsement above, Andy. Feel I know a little (with emphasis on the 'little' now)..
Resident in Aussi, I know more (just) about League....Ever watched a State of Origin -Queensland V New South Wales, which, I am assured, is broadcast worldwide?
I am a keen Rugby League watcher as well, another great game that never stops.
Thanks for you comments Dave, much appreciated.
Andy
Competition and character personified. Nice write Andy.
Seen a few matches in my day. Yeeesh.
So true John, thank you.
Andy
I thought you were going to refer to croquet ..
I have been a keen watcher of Rugby, both Union and League for as long as I can remember Neville.
Andy
Such an uplifting, Sunday write my friend. True sport as it should be played!
Thank you Bella and so very true.
Andy
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