British and Irish Lions coaching great Sir Ian McGeechan has given another rousing speech – but this time for rugby fans, not players.
McGeechan led the Lions on four occasions, including to glorious victories in 1989 and 1997. It was on the second of those occasions when he delivered his iconic ‘Be Special’ speech to the Lions, who went on to defeat South African 2-1 on the tour.
With a nod to those rousing words, he’s now delivered a different type of stirring monologue – a ‘Pub Pep Talk’ – ahead of the Premiership Rugby final between Northampton Saints and Bath Rugby today (Saturday, June 8) at Twickenham.
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McGeechan, who linked up with London Pride, the official beer of Premiership rugby, to create the new speech and first gave it to fans inside the famous Cabbage Patch pub near the famous stadium.
The reworked pep talk will be heard again by fans at Twickenham this afternoon and it’s hoped it will spark a similar reaction to the original, to motivate supporters to create a unique atmosphere for the showdown.
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(Image: David Rogers/All Sport)
The inspirational address includes the words: “With every tackle, every pass, every kick, they’ll look to you. When their heads are down, and their strength is fading, and their nerves are deserting them, they’ll look to you. And you’ll be there. A symbol of courage and strength, like the Griffin on your pint glass.”
McGeechan, who also coached Scotland, along with both Northampton and Bath, said: “Support is the backbone of every good team and the support shown by fans plays such a pivotal role in a team’s success.
“I hope the new take on my speech from the ’97 British Lions inspires fans to give it their all at the final, as they have no idea just how much impact it has.”
Rob Hobart, marketing director at Fuller’s London Pride, who are providing a fan village from 11.30am where supporters can even get their own picture with the Premiership Rugby Winners Trophy, said: “The Premiership Rugby Final is the biggest day in the club rugby calendar and we are here to help make it even more special for all fans by providing unforgettable London Pride experiences throughout the day.
(Image: London Pride)
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“Sir Ian McGeechan certainly knows a thing or two about motivating a team and we’re in no doubt that his ‘Pub Pep Talk’ will give fans the inspiration they need to support their team with pride and enjoy a brilliant day out.”
Here is the Pub Pep Talk in full:
“I’ve said it before: there are days, like today, that some fans never get to have. Never get to experience. Days like today are special.
“So, look around you. At the people by your side. Because these are the people you’re about to share something with. Something momentous. A battle that will earn its place in the history books, whatever the result.
“These are the people you’ll meet in the street in 30 years’ time. And there will just be a look, because you both know how special today was.
“You might be wearing different jerseys. And for the next 80 minutes, you’ll be rivals. But even as you urge your teams onwards, you the supporters are also a team. United in your love of this great game. Of the beers you raise in support. Of the quality and craftmanship that go into both. And today, this team of supporters has a job to do.
(Image: PA)
“You’ve proved that your team can rely on you. That your support is outstanding. That’s why you’ve made it this far. But you mustn’t falter now.
“When those players take to the pitch today, they’ll look to you. With every tackle, every pass, every kick, they’ll look to you. When their heads are down, and their strength is fading, and their nerves are deserting them, they’ll look to you.
“And you’ll be there. A symbol of courage and strength, like the Griffin on your pint glass.
“And when that final whistle blows, whether they’re victorious or heartbroken, your team will thank you. Because you’re the ones that made today special.
“So, wear your jerseys with pride, raise your glasses with pride, support with pride. And stay outstanding for the rest of your lives.
“Now let’s go for it.”