Captain Josh Turnbull said it had been an emotional day after making his 200th appearance for the Blue & Blacks in their match against Leinster in the BKT United Rugby Championship on Saturday.
The Cardiff stalwart was overwhelmed by the support he received from the Club and supporters on the lead up to the game and admitted he had a tear in his eye when he was visited in the changing room pre-match by his family and old school teacher on his milestone day.
“Emotional, and to be fair I had my old PE teacher from school come and present my jersey before the game,” said Turnbull.
“I haven’t seen him for a long time and probably someone who just instilled that little bit of hard work, the value of hard work and valuing it, will reward you.
“That’s what I’ve probably backed my game on for 17 years, working as hard as I can and you’ll get the rewards for it.
“It was emotional, the girls came to the change room as well, and my wife and I was trying to hold back the tears a little bit.
“And then just walking out with them, whether it’s the last time I go on the pitch and play, I’m not too sure, but it’s been one hell of a rollercoaster and one hell of a journey.
“I’m just really grateful and thankful for all the support that I’ve had from everyone.
“I’ve had so many messages the last couple of days and I just wanted to go out there and give it everything I could and do some justice really.”
Turnbull was full of praise for Leinster who after a strong start and then a Cardiff response, were able to wear down the Blue and Blacks in the second half through constant pressure.
“I think with all Irish teams, they start fast, and they did,” added Turnbull.
“They capitalised on a couple of mistakes from us. They came through the middle of us twice and then the ability just to stay on top and keep coming and keep coming and keep coming.
“And then their white zone efficiency, once they get in there, the continued pressure, especially in that second half, they stayed on top and you’re either going to give a penalty away for being offside and it’s unrelenting at times, it’s hard work but full credit to them.”