Leigh Halfpenny has expressed his pride and gratitude after he enjoyed a memorable farewell at Cardiff Arms Park.
The legendary full-back had to wait until the 78th minute to be called into action as the Blue & Blacks roared to a bonus-point victory over DHL Stormers to reach the BKT United Rugby Championship play-offs.
But he received a rapturous applause as he ran onto the Arms Park for the final time as a player, and typically his final action was a try-saving intervention as he helped Stef Emanuel tackle Leolin Zas into the corner.
It was a night to remember at the Arms Park as injury-hit Cardiff defied the odds against star-studded Stormers, who were targeting top spot.
And for Halfpenny it was a perfect finale after an illustrious career.
He said: “I’m just extremely grateful to be given the opportunity. Cardiff gave me the opportunity as a 18-year-old to come here, I have incredible memories and to be able to come back this year and to finish here in front of the fans at the Arms Park means so a lot and is truly special.
“I have just been overwhelmed to be honest, the last week or so since the announcement and the messages from everyone. I have been blown away.
“I’m just so grateful to everyone who has supported me along the way. Without them it wouldn’t be possible.
I’m extremely grateful and delighted – the boys were outstanding today to get the win and achieve something special. To make the play-offs is extremely special.
“It doesn’t get much better than that. I feel so fortunate to have gone out on my own terms and be here at the Arms Park and back with the club where I started. To have my friends and family in the crowd, my wife and two kids, it’s extremely special.”
Halfpenny was surrounded by teammates at the final whistle as the Arms Park erupted into celebrations. He was then the last player left on the pitch as he was engulfed by supporters showing their appreciation for a Cardiff, Wales and Lions great.
