Damien Hoyland admits Edinburgh exit ‘not sunk in yet’

Damien Hoyland admitted it had not sunk in that he played his last home game for Edinburgh after signing off in style.

It was the perfect send-off for winger Hoyland plus head coach Mike Blair and replacement scrum-half Henry Pyrgos as Edinburgh scored five first-half tries against Ospreys.

Hoyland was handed a farewell start in the 45-21 BKT United Rugby Championship encounter on Saturday night eight days after it was announced he was leaving at the end of the season, along with the likes of Blair and Pyrgos.

Hoyland said in a club video: “It’s weird, it has not really sunk in yet.

“I have been here nine years and ever since I have been here, I have obviously been on the touchline so I have had the fans in my ear all the time, always shouting their support. The guys have continuously supported us for the last nine years.

“I can’t describe how grateful I am. It hasn’t sunk in yet but I am fortunate to have done what I have done with this club and to play with the guys. I have made so many good mates, best mates.

“It’s a strange one, it’s not sunk in, but thanks to everyone.”

Hoyland was delighted the team found their form on such an important occasion for him and others.

“It was awesome,” the 29-year-old said. “We are really happy that in our last home game of the season we won with a bit of style. We are glad we gave the fans something to cheer about.

“The energy from all the lads, playing for the fans, playing for the guys that are leaving, the energy was there in abundance.”