'I think we're in a good place': Excited fans fly out from Cork Airport for first Six-Nations game
Former Munster and Irish International Frankie Sheahan with Kai, Norma and Cali Sheehan prior to heading for the France and Ireland Six Nations match in Marseille from Cork Airport. - Picture: David Creedon
The check-in desk at Cork Airport this morning was packed with eager rugby fans as supporters came in droves to board a charter flight to Marseille.
Corkonians, clad in their green jerseys, hats and scarves, were delighted to get the chance to celebrate the kick-off for the Six Nations Championship.
Former Munster and Irish International, Frankie Sheahan, was traveling with his wife Norma, and sons Kai and Cali.
“I think we're in a good place and we could potentially get the spoils despite being underdogs," he said.
“We haven't made too many changes from the World Cup and it’s great to see Calvin Nash getting in and Jack Crowley getting a start," he added.
“We have a nephew playing in the under 20s as well [Danny Sheahan], he’s starting, which is a big occasion for us,” Norma added.
Philip Murphy, Head of Rugby at Bandon Grammar School, who previously coached fly-half Jack Crowley was confident in the youngsters’ performance across the championship.
“We’re big fans of Jack, a Grammar man, we’re looking forward to seeing him starting his first game. Delighted for him.”
Crowley garnered a mass of support from Cork fans, with Sandra Coombes from Douglas saying: “He’s got great flare. Really excited to see him.”
Asked about their thoughts on the overall competition, some fans were divided in their opinions on the likelihood of bringing home a Grand Slam, with Denis McBarron from Carrigaline saying: “I think we’re still suffering from the World Cup with a pressure hangover. None of our big players have performed yet," with wife Karen McBarron adding “England are coming.”
Fountainstown locals, Andrew and Heather Kerr shared the same sentiment but predicted a “four out of five” wins
Cathal and Fiona O’Connell from Riverstick said they were "very hopeful" ahead of the game.
"We’re optimistic. We’re hoping Jack will make a big performance and follow in [Ronan] O’Gara’s footsteps.”
The general consensus for the overall performance across the Championship was positive with many supporters citing a “100 per cent” guaranteed win across all matches, as well as others putting Ireland on top as “reigning champs.”
Most fans expressed their concern for the teams’ performance against France, followed by Scotland and England, with Ray Murray from Rochestown saying: “aside from France I think England is strong this year,” and Pauline McKechnie from Douglas saying: “Scotland is hanging in there.”
Fans also showed their support for the new captain, Peter O’Mahony, with Jason O’Connor from Ballincollig saying: “I think it’s the only natural follow on from Johnny [Sexton] and hopefully Munster can reconsider taking him on for a central contract again.”
The charter flight, by Dawson Travel and Lee Travel, saw approximately 180 supporters through the departure's terminal with Corporate Travel Consultant at Lee Travel, Mary Jones saying: “We’re very proud to be able to bring this flight out of Cork to support them [The Irish Rugby Team].”
Barry Holland, Communications Manager at Cork Airport said: “Despite being early in the morning, there is still a great atmosphere as people are heading off. It's great to see that the support is still strong for rugby travel and in particular the rugby team.
"We're delighted to have a special charter service direct to Marseille catering for rugby fans in Cork and the wider Munster region.”
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