Ireland players move forward to meet The Haka as crowd gives mixed reception

The Ireland players edged forward during the Haka while the crowd gave the pre-match ritual a mixed reception.

By: irishmirror.ie

Nov 08 2024
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Ireland players move forward t

There was no warm welcome for New Zealand on Friday night as Ireland players edged forward during the Haka before kick-off.

In front of a packed-out crowd, there was a mixed reaction from the stands, with fans generally respectfully quiet. However, that respect went out the window as the Ireland players edged forward during the pre-match ritual, sparking a fever pitch atmosphere inside the stadium.

The dance is usually respectfully observed, but in recent years, rugby fans have decided to rage against the tradition. Last week, England fans attempted to drown out the haka before their 24-22 loss against the All Blacks. There were pockets of cheering around the stadium during the Haka, but it was mostly respected.

However, the crowd got louder as Ireland continued to advance towards the New Zealand players.

Ireland fans caused controversy when they drowned out the haka by singing The Fields of Athenry when the sides last met in Dublin in 2021, with a number of people complaining on social media.

There was no silence from Irish fans with an electric atmosphere before last year's World Cup quarter-final. On that occasion, as well as at Soldier Field, the Irish team lined up in the figure eight in memory of Anthony Foley.

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