Bryan Habana, the South African superstar, commends the “phenomenal” Irish fans during the World Cup match.
In a heavyweight match that appeared to decide who would win Pool A of the World Cup, Habana watched his side lose 13-8 against Ireland.
Bryan Habana, a former player for South Africa (photo courtesy of Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
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After Saturday’s World Cup match, South African icon Bryan Habana lauded the “phenomenal” Irish supporters.
In a heavyweight match that seemed to be deciding Pool A of the World Cup, Habana watched his country fall 13-8 against Ireland.
However, the ex-winger acknowledged that the tens of thousands of Irish fans who traveled to Paris created a very unique atmosphere at the Stade de France.
After the game, he told ITV Sport, “As a rugby fan, this is amazing, but as a South African, I am utterly sad.
“Within the next 48 hours, I have no idea if they [the Irish fans] will return to Dublin or anyplace else in Ireland.”
“You have to savor the moment,” he said. I was staring at Peter O’Mahony as he took in the throng singing “Don’t Stop Me Now.”
“Everyone was shouting at the top of their lungs as it roared through the stadium. As a rugby player, these are the kinds of moments you look back on and never, ever forget.
“Experiences like that are very invaluable.
“Irish people deserve praise. The manner they performed while being aware that the Springboks would be physically attacking them. It was amazing how well they were kept out.”
Ireland and South Africa might still face off in this year’s World Cup final.
However, ex-Irish hooker Jerry Flannery acknowledges that he would be terrified to face the Springboks once more.
“To be completely honest, I believe that Ben O’Keefe, the referee, gave us the benefit of the doubt multiple times. I’m not sure if we will receive it again.
“Although I am enjoying the victory, we might run into these guys again. It’s not as though South Africa is done with that.
“They might not miss those kicks if Handre Pollard returns in the next game.”
