Although there was nothing in the match, there was an excitable atmosphere with both teams well supported by colourful, good-natured fans who waited patiently through a period of heavy rain.

BBC: Ruthless India outclass Ireland

Somewhat ironically, U2's "Beautiful Day" came blaring through the tannoy as heavy rain pounded down on the Ravenhill pitch and the sea of flags, scarves and hats in all corners of the ground created a colourful backdrop for what everyone hoped was going to be a very special European Friday night occasion.

BBC: Ulster restore pride in white jersey

And as proof, nearly 70% of gamers who bought Heavy Rain played it through to the end.

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The storm has brought high winds and heavy rain, toppling trees and power lines through the region and cutting electricity to about 200, 000 homes.

BBC: Tropical storm Earl hits Canada's coast at Nova Scotia

Heavy rain, thunderstorms, high winds and hail moved through sections of the Northeast on Sunday afternoon, knocking out power to more than 40, 000 in Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine.

WSJ: Damaging storms moving through east, south