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Dublin says 'farewell'
Sportal
Dublin says farewell to 130 years of rugby history at Lansdowne Road on the last day of 2006 as Leinster and Ulster play out the last game at the ground before it is demolished and replaced.
Lansdowne Road is the oldest venue in international rugby and famous players from the past recalled their days there in the Irish Independent.
Noel Murphy, who toured New Zealand with the British and Irish Lions of 1959 and 1966 said: "You would notice the atmosphere the moment you got on to the field. The layout of the ground meant you were very close to the spectators.
"Even to this day, I would say that a lot of people would be surprised how many of the international players from other countries really enjoy playing at Lansdowne Road because it is an old stadium with character.
"Also, the support there has always been a very fair support. They enjoyed good rugby, they admired good play from the opposition."
Outstanding first five-eighths from the 1940s, Jackie Kyle said: "There was a lovely atmosphere.
"In those days there were touchline seats, so that when you ran up beside them, you were actually looking into their faces.
"In those days the only time we trained together was on a Friday afternoon."
International Rugby Board chairman Syd Millar had a playing career that spanned the 1950s, 60s and into the 70s.
"I'd played for Ballymena there but to play for Ulster and then for Ireland was different.
"It was a dream come true, the crowd were so close. At Twickenham, for instance, there wasn't the same atmosphere.
"When you get a stadium where the crowd are a bit far away and a bit high up then you lose that sort of connection…You have to be careful at modern grounds you don't lose it," he said.
Mick Galwey remembered his games at the ground in the 1990s.
""There was a great buzz there, when you were waiting for the first lineout at Lansdowne Road, you could see the faces. At other venues, the crowds are miles away from you.
"No matter what kind of stadium they build, it's going to be very hard to replace it."
Galwey hoped for more great days at the new stadium and added: "For the first time in a long time, we have a fantastic team and they deserve a fitting stadium."
Ireland and British and Irish Lions first five-eighths Ronan O'Gara summed up the feelings of modern players when saying: "Atmosphere wise, some people might see it as dark and dreary, not like any other stadium.
"But it's those wet and windy days at Lansdowne Road you really remember.
"If you give the crowd something to shout about, they will really get behind you. I've been lucky to have had big days at Lansdowne Road, both with Ireland and Munster."
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Was the wait worth it - Ya betta baby 
