A chara, – The recent letters criticising Ulster supporters (May 1st) have been deeply disappointing. In Limerick, Biarritz, Treviso, Clermont and Dublin Ulster fans have mixed with opposition supporters in a spirit of bonhomie and genuine sportsmanship. I did not witness an angry word exchanged at any venue.
The 40,000 who came to Dublin came from all aspects of a “once tortured” community. Some may not have experienced the silent Ravenhill tradition of respect for kickers but this caused only a small ripple of undesirable noise.
In a true Irish sporting spirit would it not have been better to celebrate the magnificent achievement of two mostly Irish sides reaching the Premier European tournament instead of carping on minor impoliteness .
Nearly all Ulster supporters welcome Leinster and Munster achievements, let us hope that the meanness of spirit shown by some of your correspondents does not mar a wonderful occasion in London. – Is mise,