Legends Ready For Donnybrook Duel
Some of the biggest rugby names of the modern era will be on show tonight when Ireland hosts the Legends match against England at Donnybrook (kick-off 7.30pm), on the eve of the countries’ crunch RBS 6 Nations clash.
Following the success of the 2010 England v Ireland Legends match played last year at the Twickenham Stoop in front of an 11,000-strong crowd, the teams will lock horns once again for this return match.
The ticket details are as follows: Main Stand €;15, Stadium €;10 and Concessions €;5. Supporters can purchase their tickets from Ticketmaster outlets and will also be able to pay at the gate.
The money raised from the match will be donated to the IRFU Charitable Trust in Ireland and to improving the lives of inner city youths through Sport and Education in England.
The winners of the game will also lift the Stuart Mangan Memorial Cup, which is currently held by the Irish Legends who were 17-15 victors last year.
The Ireland team will be led by former Leinster, ireland and Lions hooker Shane Byrne, and he will be joined by such Irish legends as Nick Popplewell, Rob Henderson, Mick Galwey, Malcolm O’Kelly, Eric Miller and Girvan Dempsey.
Other legends also in attendance will be Justin Bishop, Simon Easterby, Jonathan Bell, Kieron Dawson, Richard Wallace, Paddy Johns and Anthony Foley – all subject to availability.
England’s team will be led by former captain and British and Irish Lion Martin Corry. Martin is joined by several members of the England 2003 World Cup-winning side, including, Jason Leonard, who remains England’s most-capped player, Josh Lewsey, Kyran Bracken and Dan Luger.
Other heroes include Andy Farrell, Austin Healey, and Mark Regan. Completing the teamsheet are internationals Darren Garforth, Tim Stimpson, Matt Perry and Garath Archer – all subject to availability.
Both team captains, who have been the driving forces behind the Legends matches to date, along with Jason Leonard and Len Dineen, would like to make this an annual fixture, playing on the eve of the senior international match and capturing the spirit of the Ireland ‘A’ v England ‘A’ fixtures of days gone by.
Looking forward to the game, Shane Byrne said: “It’s great to welcome the England Legends to play at Donnybrook, for a return match.
“Like all ex-rugby players when looking at games you still feel that you could do all the wonderful things you did while you were a little younger, fitter and probably had more sense!
“But we’ll be looking to put on another winning performance on our home turf. Let’s hope that this occasion will become an annual fixture for rugby players and supporters – and a fantastic way to make some money for very worthwhile causes.”
For more information, check out www.irelandenglandlegends.com.
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