The sudden death of Anthony Foley affected many people on this island, not least his family. The head coach of the Munster rugby team, he died in France the night before his charged where to play Racing 92, a contest which was cancelled when the news of the death became public.
Despite all the political problems which seem to separate the people who share this land, sport quite often unites them. So it was the death of Anthony Foley.
As was expected Munster's game against Glasgow Warriors at the weekend was full of tributes to the man who had led his province on and off the pitch. But there were heartfelt tributes at other venues, none more so than at Kingspan Park where Ulster defeated Exeter.
After a minute's silence was impeccably observed the crowd then gave a rendition of The Fields of Athenry, synonomous with the Irish international side. It was generous by the spectators and illustrates just how powerful a simple gesture can be.
The wife, children and wider family of Anthony Foley have lost a loved one but hopefully they can take some comfort from such emotional and heartfelt expressions of sympathy.
