Ireland’s players sent rugby fans ‘mad’ with their reaction to New Zealand’s iconic Haka ritual.
Ireland faced the All Blacks in the Autumn Nations Series at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium on Friday night.
But Ireland’s fans were already cheering for their side before the game got underway, as the home side opted to counter the Haka in an impressive manner.
As the All Blacks performed the traditional Māori performance that involves chanting, rhythmic movements, and facial expressions, Ireland stood in a line as expected.
The ritual received a mixed reception from the crowd, with boos being heard from corners of the Aviva.
Then, as New Zealand’s Haka was coming to an end, the Ireland players started stepping forward.
Some had a smile on their face, including New Zealand-born James Lowe.
Others, meanwhile, stayed stern, with Kiwi-born Bundee Aki keeping his game face firmly on.
Ireland’s players advanced before ending up in a U-shape.
And fans both in the stadium and watching at home loved it.
“Ireland started walking forward towards the Haka,” one wrote on X. “The Aviva goes mad.”
“A spine-tingling moment in the Aviva Stadium,” another said.
A third added: “Respect to Ireland. Marvellous response to the Haka. The crowd – brilliant. Loving the atmosphere.
New Zealand’s haka has been in focus over the last few weeks.
England’s Joe Marler criticised the ritual, calling for it to be banned before his country’s clash against the All Blacks at the start of the month.
He soon withdrew his claims, though, insisting they were a joke.
A few days later, he retired from international rugby – the day after England’s 24-22 loss to New Zealand at Twickenham.
Ireland were out for revenge following their Rugby World Cup quarter-final defeat at the hands of the All Blacks in Paris last October.
