Paul O’Connell’s 7 greatest moments in an Ireland jersey

Paul O'Connell's Ireland career is over.

Although we grieve for what will no longer be, we should also appreciate what was. At his best, O'Connell was a player who struck fear into the opposition and inspired his team mates to do the same. As every rugby fan knows, Paulie never gave less than his best. Here's a few of the moments we will never forget. Thank you Paulie. His debut Picture this: you're starting for Ireland in the Six Nations against Wales. This is the game you've been waiting your whole life to play. Then, after fourteen minutes Craig Quinnell, a veteran lock knocks you unconscious with his elbow. Most people would fade away into the background of the game, if they even had the will to go on. Not O'Connell. Ten minutes later he was crossing the whitewash for a debut-day try. A legend from the very start. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uENTF1iK07I Clip via MottiRugby Captaining Ireland for the first time  O'Connell stood in as Ireland's captain in the absence of Brian O'Driscoll when the side travelled to Paris on Valentine's Day 2004. Although the game didn't go how we would have would have wanted, O'Connell inspired the Irish to not give up despite giving away an early lead. His first triple crown The big man from Limerick was unstoppable in 2004 as Ireland trounced Scotland to win their first Triple Crown since 1985. We still get goosebumps looking back at this incredible day. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NvjSNJkfSu4 Clip via Conor Ryan Last ever try at Lansdowne Road An iconic stadium saying goodbye with a try from a truly iconic player. We're not sure that we could have asked for a better send off for the stadium than a Paul O'Connell try. The Pacific Islands were our opposition that day. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sdfcGFE-hnk Clip via MottiRugby Leading Ireland out against England in Croker  This was one of the most important days in Irish sporting history. In what is traditionally the home of GAA, O'Connell gave a performance that Pat Hartigan and other Limerick greats would have been proud of. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CQ6-bYixpYE Clip via enjoyvideoclips The Grand Slam win 2009 was the year when all of Ireland's hard work paid off. O'Connell thought the Grand Slam was gone, but fortunately Jones' kick didn't have the legs and ROG's manky drop-goal did the trick. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yS5rpt70L64 Clip via markcaver1 Six Nations win and that game against France It was a game where leaders were needed. Paulie never shirks from such responsibility and his power, poise and desire helped get us over the line. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kQiPYC_df_E Clip via RBS 6 Nations That's just seven of the amazing moments he's given Irish fans. There are many more. Thanks Paulie, you'll be missed. This article was brought to you by your local Credit Union. If you're looking to follow Ireland or just want to discuss a holiday loan, go in and have a chat or check them out on creditunion.ie.