IRELAND are on the search for their first Six Nations title in three years as they look to bring their brilliant form over the last 12 months into the 2018 Championships.
A last-gasp Johnny Sexton drop-goal secured a dramatic opening round win over France, with a March showdown with England already looking like it could be a title decider.
Drenched in passion, the Six Nations is always an emotional affair – and the anthems are always a highlight in an afternoon of high drama.
But why do the Ireland rugby team sing Ireland’s Call as a national anthem instead of The Soldier’s Song?
The reason is unity – Ireland’s Call was penned 1995 as an anthem that would bring together every corner of the country and wouldn’t have political undertones.
Amhrán na bhFiann (The Soldier’s Song) is the national anthem of the Republic of Ireland, but its use arouses sensitivities among those with Unionist sympathies in Northern Ireland.
At matches played in the Republic, both are sung. Elsewhere, Ireland’s Call is the only one used, in recognition of the need for a unifying anthem.
Since its creation, there has been an ongoing debate in Ireland over the songs usage which continues today.
Six Nations outright winners
What are the lyrics to Ireland’s Call?
Come the day and come the hour
Come the power and the glory
We have come to answer
Our Country’s call
From the four proud provinces of Ireland
Ireland, Ireland
Together standing tall
Shoulder to shoulder
We’ll answer Ireland’s call
From the mighty Glens of Antrim
From the rugged hills of Galway
From the walls of Limerick
And Dublin Bay
From the four proud provinces of Ireland
Ireland, Ireland
Together standing tall
Shoulder to shoulder
We’ll answer Ireland’s call
Hearts of steel and heads unbowing
Vowing never to be broken
We will fight, until we can fight no more
From the four proud provinces of Ireland!
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