Foley family deeply touched by rugby squad's tribute

In a poignant scene just before the kick-off in Chicago, the Irish squad formed a figure of eight – Foley’s number – as they faced down the famously intimidating New Zealand Haka.

Ultimately Ireland won 40-29.

“To say that we were touched by how Ireland faced the New Zealand Haka, drawing inspiration from the No 8, would be an understatement,” said Foley’s family on a Facebook page set up in memory of the coach.

“Ironically, 15 years ago Anthony played for Ireland against and lost to New Zealand on a score of... 40-29.

“Last night’s Irish response to the Haka was incredible remembrance.”

In Chicago, proud Irish flanker Christiaan Johan Stander said: “He meant so much to me, he was really the rock in my rugby the last four years.

“He showed me a lot about what he’d learned over the years. I think he pushed me to the next level.”

Stander added: “Everything we gave was for him. So this match was for Axel.”