Scotland and Wales refused to travel in 1972, but a year later the England rugby team came to Dublin at the height of the Troubles to play their 5 Nations (as it was then) fixture. Against a backdrop of violence and political unrest, this was seen as an incredible boost to Irish sport, and something the Lansdowne Road crowd fully appreciated as they gave the England team a 5-minute standing ovation as they ran onto the pitch.

Of particular interest to Bangorians, out of the 5 Ulstermen on the team sheet, Dick Milliken won his first appearance for Ireland, and Roger Clegg was on the bench. The game had even greater significance for Dick as he was one of Ireland's try-scorers in Ireland's 18-9 victory.

At the post-match banquet the English captain, John Pullin, stood up to make his now-famous speech. “We might not be the greatest team in the world,” said the English front row. “But at least we turn up.”

It was perhaps fitting that the 1973 tournament was also notable for resulting in a five-way tie. Each team had won two and lost two of their fixtures, and as it was before the competition recognised points-difference, all five nations were declared champions but sport was undoubtedly the overall winner.

Now 50 years have passed, and today (Tuesday 14th March) members of both teams and delegates from the IRFU and RFU gathered at a reception in London hosted by the Irish Embassy to mark the occasion.

Click HERE to read Ireland second row Kevin Mays' recollections about the day.

Photos from the reception can also be found HERE