"...13..."

A blip for BOD.....

Today the greatest No.13 in world rugby played his last match in an Ireland shirt at Lansdowne Road - Brian O'Driscoll.

He may not have got the try-scoring finale we were all hoping for, but he did instigate 3 of Ireland's tries with unbelievable passes of the ball! As one commentator reminded us, when Brian first appeared on the scene, they said he had more magic in his little finger than the rest of the team put together! He has, and will remain an inspiration for the younger guys wearing the green shirts that he, and soon the likes of Paul O'Connell, Mike Ross and Rory Best will leave Ireland's future in the capable hands of.

Today at the Aviva, it was BOD's day. He said he didn't want the limelight or for the focus to be on him, but I don't think Brian truly realised just how much he is loved by every one until today. Every time the camera focused on him the stadium erupted and all he could do was smile, almost with a hint of embarrassment in his eyes. Even his team mates, who knew and understood the enormity of today, could only smile and applaud the great one alongside their fans.

Jamie Heaslip said in a local newspaper report that the romantic in him, like his fellow green shirts, wants Brian to retire with the 6 Nations trophy in his hand and I've firmly believed from the beginning of the tournament that the Ireland team have made themselves strong and are going all out, just for one extraordinary man!

At the end of the match Brian carried his little girl Sadie onto the pitch. At approx 1 year old, she has no idea that her dad is the greatest ever but she will grow up surrounded by her daddy's amazing memories that only come from 15 years (!!) of international rugby!

But for now, Ireland have a championship to win next weekend. BOD's last ever match in a green shirt. Let's make it the perfect finish lads!

# Brian O'Driscoll #