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Rugby

Clermont supporters are planning a tribute to Anthony Foley this weekend

Anthony Foley had a number of battles against ASM Clermont Auvergne, both as a player and as a ma...



Clermont supporters are planni...
Rugby

Clermont supporters are planning a tribute to Anthony Foley this weekend

Anthony Foley had a number of battles against ASM Clermont Auvergne, both as a player and as a manager, and his death last weekend united the entire rugby world in grief. 

A fierce competitor on the pitch, the level of respect and admiration that Foley had earned in all his years in the game was evident as tributes came pouring in from all over the world

Supporters gathered outside Racing 92's stadium on Sunday to pay tribute, and Clermont's famous Yellow Army will also be making a similar gesture at the Stade Marcel-Michelin on Saturday as they take on Bordeaux-Begles. 

In a post on a Facebook page set up by the supporters group, the Yellow Army said that "rugby is a large family, and over the years we have woven ties with fans across Europe."

Noting that there was a special place in their hearts for the Munster fans after their many meetings throughout the years, they added that Clermont fans "have all been touched by the death of Anthony Foley."

In the post, the supporters group called for all the fans to bring a Munster flag or scarf to the game, if they have one, as they will pay tribute to the late Munster coach on the day with a display of support and solidarity with the Irish province.

Tributes are likely to be paid around Europe over the weekend, as fixtures take place in the Champions Cup, and in particular at Thomond Park where Munster take on Glasgow Warriors.

Speaking on Wednesday at a press conference, Director of Rugby Rassie Erasmus said that the game would go ahead, as: "Thomond Park held a very special place in Axel's heart. As difficult as it will be to play the next game, no matter the time, the opposition or the venue, we now have the opportunity to play there this Saturday."

Fans will be able to pay tribute to the late player and coach in his hometown of Killaloe on Thursday at St. Flannan’s church until 8:30pm, while a funeral mass will also take place there on Friday 21st October at 12 noon.

Thousands gathered outside Thomond Park on Wednesday night, lining the streets and singing a touching version of 'There Is An Isle' in memory of the Munster legend.

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