Malahide RFC Munches On IRFU ‘Big Breakfast’

Malahide RFC officials threw open the club’s doors to over 100 supporters who gathered together to watch Ireland’s Pool C victory over the Eagles.

A gourmet breakfast was laid on to sustain the early rising fans as they cheered on Ireland and soaked up the atmosphere at the family-friendly event.

They followed the action on the club’s brand new 10ft HD screen, and there were some Irish rugby treats and spot prizes handed out.

RTÉ News were there to capture the excitement and tension as Declan Kidney’s men took on the USA, and they also got some post-match reaction from the club members.

Malahide RFC President John Melvin was encouraged by the numbers present, with the club also making it an open day to welcome members old and new to the Estuary Road venue.

Playing on the other side of the world means the entire country will be waking up in the early hours of the morning to support the Ireland team throughout the Rugby World Cup.

For the tournament in New Zealand, the IRFU are encouraging rugby clubs and supporters around the country to host their own ‘Big Breakfast’ event and invite the local community into their clubhouses.

Following the game, clubs can use the captive audience to begin their registrations for the coming season with the aim of boosting their participating numbers even further.

Ireland captain Brian O’Driscoll has sent out the call for other clubs to follow suit and use the World Cup as the catalyst to boost the numbers joining clubs and playing rugby.

“The support that we get when we play at home is always fantastic but I know that the squad will be even more appreciative and boosted by the thought of people across Ireland showing that commitment by getting up bleary eyed to cheer us on in the World Cup,” he said.

“The tournament will challenge us on every level, but it is something that we as a squad know can help build up the numbers up of young people playing the game, which can only be good for the future of the sport.

“I think the idea of the ‘Big Breakfast’ is a great one to pull people into clubs. I certainly think the Rugby World Cup will generate a unique atmosphere.

“I hope all of the clubs and the people at home can run an event during the tournament and hopefully we can give them a few more days to shout about.”

Click here to view photos of Malahide RFC’s ‘Big Breakfast’ gathering in the club grounds.

Follow the Ireland team in New Zealand on www.twitter.com/irfurugby.