Retiring Dallaglio pays tribute to team-mates after final win
Lawrence Dallaglio was an England stalwart for many years
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Saturday, 31, May 2008 08:37
England legend Lawrence Dallaglio paid tribute to his team-mates after they lifted the Guinness Premiership crown by beating Leicester tigers.
The retiring Wasps captain helped his side come through 26-16 in a tough final at Twickenham and lifted the trophy in a fitting farewell for one of the greatest players the game has ever seen.
But Dallaglio tried to divert the attention away from himself and said it was a massive effort from the entire club which led to a memorable title win.
"This was not about me, it was a wonderful squad effort," said Dallaglio. "We were tenth in the table around Christmas time, so this is probably our greatest achievement.
"This win is testament to all the staff, players, coaches and fans of this great club. We're not blessed with the greatest of resources but we have heart and soul.
"We played a mighty opponent today in Leicester and we always knew it was going to be tough. They came back at us but we held on and performed heroically."
Dallaglio, who was given a standing ovation by both sets of fans today, played for Wasps for 15 years, making 339 appearances for the only club he played for.
But the flanker will be remembered most for his performances during England's 2003 World Cup winning campaign. The 35-year-old played for England for over a decade and won a total of 85 caps.