It didn’t feature in any of the post-match media, perhaps because the media like many of the Munster ‘faithful’ had already left by the time, Tadhg Beirne made his solitary walk to acknowledge the few remaining supporters in each corner of Thomond Park.
This was not the kind of post-match walk we are accustomed to seeing from groups of rugby players acknowledging travelling support or celebrating a famous victory. For a start, Munster were at home and midway through the second half it was clear there would be no famous victory. This walk was unique in that as Tadhg made his way through the tunnel of Leinster applause and turned to begin his trek to the opposite side of the stadium, nobody followed him.
Many of the supporters had begun to leave with 10 minutes to play. Beginning in largest numbers from the upper stands as might be expected but also with unerring consistency from the so-called ‘brave and faithful’ in the terraces. Maybe they had to charge their phones after the half-time lights show, which seems to be introduced at Thomond Park with more importance than the games themselves. Many of the people leaving early were dressed head to toe in Munster gear that would make even the most ardent Munster supporter feel inadequate. A good reminder not to judge books by their cover.
Tadhg’s isolation combined with the sight of his right arm raised above his head, arguably representing the white flag Munster had just waved in battle somehow summed up how we were all feeling. Yes, we’re not good enough to beat Leinster right now, but captain and remaining crowd had given it everything they had. Our heads were bloodied but unbowed, a bit like Tadgh’s. We stood in the terraces hurting, more than normal (they say it is the hope that kills you), but we hurt a little less knowing that Tadhg saw us hurting and knowing that he was hurting too. In that moment, supporters and club were united by their captain. If Munster is no longer capable of retaining it’s tradition of eating from Europe’s top table, it at least has retained it’s tradition of great captains and some pretty decent supporters too.
Thanks Tadhg, best wishes, the brave and the faithful.