Did the Springboks celebrate too much after their win in Dublin?
The Springboks’ historic win over Ireland in Dublin sparked a debate on social media about their celebratory style, with Irish writer Pat McCarry’s sarcastic remarks highlighting a sentiment that South Africa’s achievements are often under-appreciated outside their home country. Picture: Paul Faith / AFP
Image: Paul Faith / AFP
In the wake of the Springboks’ historic win over Ireland in Dublin, there was one Irish response which stood out.
Irish rugby writer Pat McCarry posted a sarcastic assessment of the Springbok celebrations after the match.
Though it was clear he was joking, it reflected a popular sentiment that the Springboks generally don’t receive the credit they deserve outside of South Africa.
Considering it was the Springboks’ first win in Dublin in 13 years, they had good reason to celebrate.
McCarry’s Comments Spark Debate on South Africa’s Celebrations vs. Ireland’s Future Prospects
“Sad to see South Africa celebrating that November international result like a World Cup final. We'll see what happens in 2027 when it really counts and in a competition when Ireland really shines,” posted McCarry on X.
His comments were met with a spirited response from Springboks fans, who pointed to their team’s multiple Rugby World Cup victories as evidence of their celebratory prowess.
In a nod to McCarry’s ‘trolling’ skills, one fan humourously suggested that Ireland’s World Cup celebrations could be researched using AI, acknowledging the absence of such victories for the Irish team.
In another post, lacking the humour of his other caption, he took a dig at Bok coach Rassie Erasmus when he said: "Rassie acting the t**t at the end”.
Of course, Erasmus was snubbed for World Rugby Coach of the Year.
That’s no disrespect to England Women’s coach John Mitchell, who won the award after leading his side to the Rugby World Cup title earlier this year. It’s also worth noting that the winner was strangely decided in September, two months before the November internationals.
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