In what was a disappointing result for Schmidt's men it was only a side note as Irish rugby and Ireland got a chance to say goodbye to one of its favourite sons.
Paul O'Connell played his final game for Ireland on Irish soil as he captained them to an unfortunate loss at the Aviva this afternoon.
O'Connell has over 100 caps for the men in green in an international career that spans 13 years, culminating in four Triple Crowns, three Six Nations championships and one Grand Slam.
In his interview after the game O'Connell's mind was firmly stuck on the World cup, saying that now is not the the time to look back on his career.
O'Connell is one of World rugby's most iconic players and through his career he has earned the respect of teamates, coaches and opponents. This was signified by the Welsh team staying on the pitch to give the Irish captain the standing ovation he deserved after the match.
Even though it not yet the end of his international career the Ireland captain is now beginning the long goodbye as he leads Ireland into the World Cup in a couple of weeks time, where the expectations of a country slowly begin to rise.
©INPHO/Billy Stickland
©INPHO/Dan Sheridan
©INPHO/Dan Sheridan
©INPHO/James Crombie
Thanks Paul.
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