YBIG_Issue19

Bulgaria vs Ireland - 6th June 2009 - WC Qualifier Group 8

YouBoYsInGreen bulgaria v irElaND irElaND’S SOCCEr FaNZiNE iSSuE 19 free! KeVIn KILBAne Talks to Ybig

ON THE SEVENTH DAY STAR SUNDAY HAS CREATED A LITTLE SOMETHING EXTRA FOR MEN.... '2%!4%3435--%245.%3 +INGS

editorial WEBSITE: www.youboysingreen.ie CONTACT: contact@youboysingreen.ie I am open to correction, but to my knowl- edge it was a League Of Ireland fan who once said: “I would rather see my club win a corner kick than Ireland winning the World Cup.” Being a fanzine editor for our national side I would choose the latter but can totally understand where this particular fan is com- ing from. League of Ireland fans are the true soccer heroes in this country. They lump in their own cash and take on personal tasks to help promote the club. They didn’t choose their team, their team chose them. You will find them all over the country. Putting more than their bodies through a trunstile on a Friday night. more than pur- chasing club merchandise. many really do go that extra mile. This is why many will choose their clubs over their country; it is part of who they are. a few months ago, however, a thread popped up on the YBIG forums. It was linked to another site and certainly got people talking. One poster made reference to that famous quote... “I would rather see Liverpool win a corner kick than Ireland winning the World Cup,” it read. It seems there are many in the country who choose English Premier League clubs over their own country! The horror vision of some supporters cheering anderson and Lucas for Brazil suddenly came back to haunt me. If people want to follow a team from England, that’s their decision. If they want to follow a team from mongolia, that’s their decision. Each to their own. I suffered from POD (Premiership Obsessive Disorder) myself for years but I have come back stronger now! There are plenty who will travel to Britain regularly to watch their team but the vast majority will only get to go probably once a year. Hardly hardcore supporting. as I said, each to their own but, from many conversations since this appalling thread popped up on a site that’s dedicated to Irish people who follow Liverpool, it seems that not only will many choose an English team ahead of their country, some also laugh and look down upon League of Ireland fans. The barstool debate is done to death. But the pure ignorance of some is, quite simply, hard to believe. There is a reason most follow Liverpool, man Utd and arsenal. They don’t have any connection with the clubs. There is no rea- son for them to follow them. They quite simply chose the glory. as CCC wrote in his book ‘Derby Days’, he didn’t choose to go on 12-hour round trips in poxy weather conditions to watch his shit Watford side get beaten. It’s part of who he is. It’s what football and supporting your team is all about and no amount of sky cameras and punditry can buy that. Go to any pub on any Saturday or Sunday when a big match is on and it’s always the same. The ‘mancs’ slag the ‘Scousers’ and vice-versa, even though there isn’t actually a manc or a Scouser in the pub. We didn’t choose to support Ireland. It’s who we are. We don’t really have a choice. I’ve been to enough away games to drive me off football for good, never mind empty my bank account. But it’s who we are. We keep going, keep getting behind the team, keep spending our hard-earned cash and we don’t sit and shout at a television from the comfort of a barstool. The sad thing is, if people actually got themselves to a few League of Ireland games, they would enjoy it and probably return. The RDS in the mid ‘90s was my first foray into our national league. Dolly mixtures and smokes were the order of the day. Good days and we even got to see Rovers collect their last league title against Cork City in ‘94. There then followed years of trips to England and many’s a great match at anfield. But, looking back, that’s all they were - trips and a day out. I retired the barstool four or five years ago and reunited myself with Shamrock Rovers. The only regret — should have done it years ago.T he League Of Ireland and its band of loyal fans should not be berated, but embraced. Yes, there are no super- duper, grand slam, showdown, Judgement Day Sundays, but what you will see is a league full of good people. People who tirelessly fund-raise for hard- up clubs, people who make a conscious decision to bring their friends and family to matches because they know a few extra sold tickets can make the world of difference to the bottom line of that club’s balancing sheet. and it’s a league of many families, where each club is like a small community and, after a few years of going to matches, you find yourself being on friendly terms with half the crowd. Everyone is approachable — the fans, the players, the management and the directors. Talk to any fanzine editor in England. They don??t understand the mentality of Irish fans shunning their own league. The hardcore in Liverpool and manchester don’t want them there. It must be a sad thing, your own fans not wanting you there, cheering on the team. Very sad. Enjoy the fanzine and enjoy Sofia. GER KEVILLE The new YBIG, 12th man jersies. To buy one and for more information log on to www.ybig.ie

The new YBIG, 12th man jersies. To buy one and for more information log on to www.ybig.ie

YBIG: What would it mean for you to reach 100 caps for Ireland? KevIn: It’s getting close now but I’ve tried to play it down as there is a long way to go in this cam- paign. But in terms of reaching the milestone it would be an honour and a privilege. It would be up there with playing in the World Cup in ‘02. Not many reach 100 caps so it would be a great achievement. YBIG: Your greatest memory playing in the green? KevIn: The World Cup without doubt. Our first game against Cameroon was a amazing experi- ence. Obviously Holland at home and Iran away were very special moments in my career. YBIG: Biggest disappointment? KevIn: Not qualifying for more tournaments. With the squads we’ve had we really should have played at the high- est level more often. Here’s hoping this time around we will make it. YBIG: All time favourite player? KevIn: Definitely Paul McGrath. He was a hero of mine growing up. I also really like Chris Waddle as he was left foot- ed also. YBIG: Best player you have played with? KevIn: Very tough to call but definitely Robbie or Damien. Too difficult to choose one. YBIG: Who has had the biggest influence on your career? KevIn: My Father in Law, Steve Harrison. I’ve known him since my time at Preston and he has been great to me. YBIG: Zizu Kilbane, like or dislike? KevIn: Zizu is a bit embarrassing really but I don’t mind it. I like Killer as I’ve been called worse! YBIG: Is it true you once attended an England youth trial in Ireland gear? KevIn: Yeah it’s true. When at Preston, Sam Allardyce (Youth Team Coach at the time) twisted my arm and made me go. I really didn’t feel right going. But yeah 100% true I wore the Ireland gear. YBIG: Hopes for the future? KevIn: My family are very important to me, so for the future I’d want to ensure their health and happiness. Career wise, I’m now starting to look into getting my coaching badges. I’d love to stay in football. YBIG: Could you explain the short dropping inci- dent whilst playing for Sunderland? KevIn: Well (laughing) I had got tangled up in a tackle and my shorts ripped. Babbsy passed it out wide to me (which made matters worse) and I got more and more tangled. Change of shorts were required!!! YBIG: Toughest player you ever came up against? KevIn: Kevin Muscat (Wolves). Tough guy. YBIG: Who would play you in a movie? KevIn: Brad Pitt or George Clooney (laughing) YBIG: Most intelligent on the team? KevIn: John O’Shea YBIG: Least intelligent? KevIn: Stonewaller, either of the Hunt brothers! YBIG: Best trainer? KevIn: Shay! He trains extremely hard. YBIG: Hardman? KevIn: Paul McShane - he loves the tackle! YBIG: Joker? KevIn: Robbie loves a joke but in the past, Big Niall and Gary Kelly were the jokers in the pack YBIG: Apart from Trap and Phil Brown, who is the best manager you worked with? YBIG’s Dave with Killer and Stephen Hunt in the Players’ Bar after the Georgia game 6 Interview

8 Cult Hero Dave O’LearyWe salute youD AVID O’LEARY gathered 68 caps for the Republic of Ireland in the course of a fine international career, a total which really should have been much greater. Following Jack Charlton’s appointment, O’Leary found himself frozen out of the interna- tional set-up for over two years. (After being left out of the Ireland squad for a Mickey Mouse tournament in Iceland in May, 1986, O’Leary booked a family holiday, which he wouldn’t cancel when he was belatedly called-up, following several withdrawals). Charlton’s master-stroke of gunboat diplomacy saw O’Leary banished to the wilderness until November, 1988, thus missing out on Euro 88. He will forever be remembered as the man whose penalty against Romania in the 1990 World Cup sent us into the quar- ter-finals, but he was given only 26 minutes playing time in the entire tournament. (Shortly afterwards, he scored his only goal for the Republic in a 5-0 win over Turkey in a Euro ’92 qualifier).O ’Leary bestrode the hal- lowed halls of Highbury with Arsenal from 1975 to 1993, forming the Dublin trium- virate with Liam Brady and Frank Stapleton, who had pre- ceded him to London. While Brady would leave in 1980 on a four-club Italian odys- sey, O’Leary would rack up an incredible 18-year association, and 558 appearances, with The Gunners. He made his debut for the Republic as a teenager in a 1-1 draw with England at Wembley in September, 1976. The respective line-outs that night were: IRELAND: Mick Kearns, Paddy Mulligan, Jimmy Holmes, Mick Martin, David O’Leary, Liam Brady, Gerry Daly, Terry Conroy, Steve Heighway, John Giles, Don Givens. ENGLAND: Ray Clemence, Colin Todd, Paul Madeley, Trevor Cherry, Roy McFarland, Brian Greenhoff, Kevin Keegan, Ray Wilkins, Stuart Pearson, Trevor Brooking, Charlie George, Gordon Hill. Scorers: Ireland: Gerry Daly. England: Stuart Pearson. O’Leary was possessed of an astute footballing brain, averse to hoofing the ball into the near- est car-park. His trademark slide-rule, pre- cision passing being first choice Dave O’Leary will always be remembered for THAT penalty and the Irish career THAT should have been so much more, but as a footballing career goes O’Leary cant have many regrets. BRIAN P FARRELL gives O’Leary the YBIG honour of cult status. O’Leary celebrates after scoring THAT winning penalty

Cult Hero 9 every time. He epitomised grace under pressure. His managerial career has indeed been swings and round- abouts. George Graham took charge at Leeds United. In September ‘96, with O’Leary as his assistant. Two years later, Graham moved south to Spurs, O’Leary being promoted to the hot-seat. At the end of 1998-99, Leeds finished fourth, and qualified for the UEFA Cup. Their ’99-2000 campaign ended in the semi-final, losing to Galatasaray. In the Premiership, mean- while, Leeds finished third, and qualified for the Champions League. (They reached the semi-finals in 2001, losing to eventual run- ners-up Valencia.) By June, 2002, O’Leary had spent almost £100m on new players in less than four years, with no tangible trophy return, and he was shown the door, replaced by Terry Venables. O’Leary’s departure saw a downward spiral for the Yorkshire club, and three more managers (Venables, Peter Reid and Eddie Gray) would come and go before the club finally dropped through the rele- gation trap-door in 2004, with £80 million of debt. A move to the Midlands came next, and O’Leary took charge of Aston Villa in June, 2003. H is tenure in Birmingham came to an acrimonious end in July 06, when a press release from the Villa players criticised Villa chairman ‘Deadly’ Doug Ellis, and O’Leary headed for nearest Labour Exchange. His ventures in club manage- ment were no worse than some, and far better than most. Under his tutelage, his teams always tried to play attractive football, Of all the latter-day centre-halves to have worn the green, (and we have had some great ones) O’Leary was, in my opinion, surely the classiest of them all. As a sublime centre-half, a more than decent manager, and an all-round gentleman, David O’Leary, We salute You. ‘Possessed of an astute footballing brain, averse to hoofing the ball to the nearest car-park’ As I say, Dave gives some words of advice to Packie. While Cascarino just looks bemused?

10 RantPercy H owyiz. Firstly I’d like to apologise to some of the Rovers fans I upset in the last issue. I might have been a bit harsh on yiz, maybe because I’m still annoyed that none of yiz helped me back in the late 70s when I got me foot stuck in a bleedin shore outside the clubhouse in Milltown at half-time when yiz were all scurrying inside for a quick pint. That’s my earliest memory of Rovers when my Da would bring us along to watch the club he loved. The highlight of our visits to Milltown was when Rovers beat Man United there in a testimonial for Shay Brennan. Pat Jennings made an appearance in that match and some muppet made an appearance on the roof of the shed and burned a Union Jack. When Rovers moved into the RDS in the 90s, I got the job of looking after the players’ car park. They gave me a lovely green and purple jacket to wear and an oversized armband with match official written on it. I remember one pre-season friendly was against Nottingham Forest, when Roy Keane was skinny and wore women’s flip flops. Keane came out to me look- ing for a phone to ring his ma who was due up to watch him play. I have to say, he was polite without a hint of arro- gance. The RDS back then was lucky to have running water let alone a phone. I came up with a plan…. Me Da had a carphone back then, so I asked him if Roy could use it…the response was: “He can in his shite ring Cork on that….me bill would be through the roof”. Roy became a narky bollix from this day forth. I also remember dragging those poxy GAA goal- posts off the pitch in the RDS when the GAA pulled out of a (Rovers Vs Bohs, Dublin Vs Down) double header at the last minute. I became a narky bollix from this day forth. Around this time me Da got me a “job” in Lansdowne for the matches. All I had to do was don the company colours and stroll around pretending to be busy. In one particular match against the Czech Republic in June ’94, the only thing I could find with a company logo on it was a heavy snickers jacket and the day was a scorcher. The sweat was pumpin out of me just walking around avoiding the stewards’ questions. About 15 minutes before kick off I thought I was home and dry when this arsehole in a suit and an A4 sized FAI ID badge came over to the railing where I was standing behind the dug outs. “Do you work for the cleaners?”, to which I had to reply “yes” for fear of getting thrown out. “In that case, there’s a bit of rubbish under the West Stand that needs to be thrown in the skip, thanks”. What he failed to mention was that the skip was under the East Stand. I had no choice but to mosey in under the West Stand and pick up what turned out to be a large sack of mouldy spuds and lump it from there, across the pitch behind the goal in front of a now packed South Terrace, sweatin like a whore in church in me Winter edi- tion snickers jacket to chants of “Redser, Redser give us a wave”. I managed to fire off one or two of those spuds into the terrace, while swearing I would buy a ticket for the next game. Enjoy the match. PERCY takes us through his past jobs and mis-haps ‘working’ at Rovers and Landsdowne Road Dedicated to MICK CULLEN1943-2008Mon the Hoops A photo my Da took of Milltown after the ground was demolished 1. Against which nation did Ireland get its first-ever World Cup win?2. What was the highest position Ireland has ever achieved in the FIFA World rankings?3. Can you name the four players that scored for Ireland in the 2002 World Cup finals?4. Who was the Sunderland player who scored against Ireland in the 2002 WC finals?5. Who scored Ireland first goal under Giovanni Trapattoni?6. Which nation was the first to visit Ireland after World War Two?7. Which one of these players did not make his Ireland debut under Trappa? Caleb Folan, Glenn Whelan, Darron Gibson or Damien Delaney?8. Bulgaria’s first World Cup finals was....? 9. Bulgaria’s first competitive match was against the Republic of Ireland. True or false?10. Who was the last Manchester United player to score against the Republic of Ireland?11 Who was Packie Bonner’s team mate on the Celtic double-winning team and then later that summer at Euro 88?12. What does he do for a living now?13. What former Celtic player scored two goals in the opening four minutes for Ireland against Liechtenstein in October ‘9414. Another Irish Celt Aidan McGeady made his debut against which team?15. The great Celt Patsy Gallacher was capped 12 times for Ireland and the Irish free state and was known as?16. Johnny Giles had a star studded career for Leeds and Ireland but which team did he begin his career with at 15?17. Eamon Dunphy won 22 of his 23 Ireland caps while he was with which team?18. Ireland will play both South Africa and Australia this year in which ground?19. Name the three foreigners who have managed the Republic of Ireland.20. The recently deceased Alan Kelly snr mae his debut against which team? QUIZ 1. Finland 1949; 2. Sixth in August 1993; 3. Robbie Keane, Matt Holland, Damien Duff and Gary Breen; 4. Patrick Mbomba of Cameroon; 5. Andy Keogh; 6. England; 7. Darron Gibson; 8. ...the 1962 World Cup in Chile; 9. True. They played the Republic of Ireland amateur side in the 1924 Olympics.; 10. Mark Hughes for Wales at Tolka Park in 1993.; 11. Chris Morris; 12. He runs his family company in Cornwall (Making Cornish Pasties!); 13. Tommy Coyne; 14. Jamaica; 15. The mighty atom; 16 Manchester United; 17. Millwall; 18. Thomond Park, Limerick; 19. Doug Livingstone, Jack Charlton, Giovanni Trapattoni; 20. West Germany Quiz 11

CommuniCation This is not the place to discuss the merits of persistently thrusting a microphone into the mush of someone with pidgin English and expecting eloquent prose every time. sure, Trapattoni’s English isn’t great, but how’s your italian? More important is how Trapattoni has commu- nicated with his players. Must be docked marks for never fully clarifying his refusal to select Andy Reid, although in fair- ness to Trap he has let it be known that he does not see Reid fitting into his system of play. And certainly the lines of communication are not what they could be in relation to stephen ireland. But Trapattoni has communicated well with the players in his squad. he has certainly got his message across, as evi- denced by the manner in which the team have bought into his philosophy. Remember Trapattoni has coached across Europe and in many different languages, and he has obviously made himself understood on the training pitch and in the dressing room. And that’s what really counts. Rating: Very Good results Look across the qualifying groups and the undefeated sides read as a who’s-who of Europe’s top sides. Granted when you come to Group Eight, there are still three teams yet to taste defeat but whatever way you look at it: six games + no losses = qualifying form. But Trapattoni is also getting results in terms of cajoling the best out of some of ireland’s hereto- fore under-performing stars. John O’shea is the most obvious example, a player who is almost unrecognisable from this time last year. Perhaps that has more to do with a sustained run in the Man Utd first team. But an equally valid argu- ment is that Alex Ferguson has placed more faith in O’shea based on the consistency of per- formance he has displayed for ireland. Either way, O’shea is a player transformed under Trap’s regime. Aiden McGeady is another who has come along under Trap. While he remains frustratingly inconsistent, the winger has also delivered his best irish performances under Trap. Robbie Keane is another flourishing and currently tops Group Eight’s scoring charts with four. Okay so some of the skipper’s overall play may not have set the world alight but he is banging in goals again. Four goals is two more than anyone else in the group. And goals are what Trap wants from his captain. Result. Rating: Excellent attendanCe A lot has been made of Trapattoni’s absence from club matches. Although some jour- nalists would have you believe that Trapattoni hasn’t watched any games. But just like on a school report card, is attendance really all that important if the student is still churning out A grades? if a lack of attend- ance starts to impinge on those grades then a rethink is needed. But if not, well then what’s all the fuss? Rating: Fair performanCe As good as the results have been, the perform- ances continue to disappoint. Take the two most recent qualifiers. Against Bulgaria in Croker, the level of performance dropped substantially once we took an early lead. While over in Bari - as impressive as the result undoubtedly was - for a long time it looked like ireland could still be play- ing now and not have scored. And don’t forget we had to use ‘our get out of jail card’ against Georgia. ireland too often cede possession easi- ly and look bereft of ideas in the final third. in that regard there is certainly room for improvement. Rating: Good Mid-term REPORT As we pass the midpoint in Trapattoni’s two-year tenure as well as the halfway mark in our quest for qualification, ROSS FITZGERALD offers his mid-term report on senior student Giovanni Trapattoni. 12 Feature REPORT CARD COMMUNICATION ...Very Good RESULTS ..................Excellent ATTENDANCE .........Fair PERFORMANCE ......Good OVERALL .................Very good GIOVANNI TRAPATTONIoverall For the begrudgers, rewind back to the end of Steve Staunton’s reign and remember how bad things were, and the boos that rang out after that last minute draw with Cyprus. For those who remained optimistic, ask your- self how you thought we’d fare without the serv- ices of three of our top midfielders for the bulk of this campaign. Yet despite the prolonged absences of Steven Reid, Andy Reid and Stephen Ireland - for whatever reasons - we are still well in contention. Like the bright yet under-achieving student, Trap and his team can of course do better. Some would say, certainly when it comes to the man- ager’s lack of appearances at club games, he must try harder. But ask yourself one simple question: would you settle for where we are now, six games in? Ireland have not achieved anything yet but remain on course to graduate to next year’s World Cup finals. A lot of work has to be done yet, starting with this tricky tie in Sofia but rest assured Trapattoni will have done his homework. Keep up the good work. Rating: Very Good Feature 13 LIKES... - The legend that was Dan Nolan- The new 12th Man jersey- robbie’s late late goal in Bari- Megan Fox- Mick back in the Premiership with Wolves- Dumb and Dumber- John o’Shea’s form this season- Sofia t-shirts- Pat Kenny leaving the late late- Shane lowry winning the Irish open- Buying The van for only a fiver- James McCarthy winning SPl Young Player of the Year - a senior cap??- The new YBIG flag- Garlic and cheese chips- Una Healy- The aul fella that threw the eggs at the aIB bosses- Bari locals- Big Jack reunion dinner in July- Green cotton wifebeaters- The price of match tickets and gargle in Sofia- Tangle twisters- Cats that have the ability to play the keyboard- alan Shearer relegating Newcastle- robbie making sure his son was born in Ireland because he didn’t want him playing for england ...dISLIKES - Noel Hunt and Doyler being injured- The death of the Keyboard Cat- lads using their Irish afros as sick bags in Bari- Not beating Bulgaria at home- Bertie promoting the league of Ireland- Tax levies- The Inbetweeners’ new series finished- Didier Drogba- Female comedians- Female drivers- Broken flutes- When you need a number two and there’s no bog roll - The reading lads not getting promoted- lads falling asleep in the boozer BeFore the game in Bari- When the elastic goes in your socks or boxers- Moths with tashes- The friendlies in Thomond being mid week- Duffer playing for Newcastle- The play-off league table for second placed sides - Boo boys at Croker who don’t have a clue- The dodgy boxes definitely gone- No charter flight to Sofia- lugging these bloody mags half way across europe- Bulgaria not using euro notes- The one poxy team that ruins your accumalator bet- another loI team’s finances in a mess The gaffer talks to the lovely Manuela Spinelli

overall For the begrudgers, rewind back to the end of Steve Staunton’s reign and remember how bad things were, and the boos that rang out after that last minute draw with Cyprus. For those who remained optimistic, ask your- self how you thought we’d fare without the serv- ices of three of our top midfielders for the bulk of this campaign. Yet despite the prolonged absences of Steven Reid, Andy Reid and Stephen Ireland - for whatever reasons - we are still well in contention. Like the bright yet under-achieving student, Trap and his team can of course do better. Some would say, certainly when it comes to the man- ager’s lack of appearances at club games, he must try harder. But ask yourself one simple question: would you settle for where we are now, six games in? Ireland have not achieved anything yet but remain on course to graduate to next year’s World Cup finals. A lot of work has to be done yet, starting with this tricky tie in Sofia but rest assured Trapattoni will have done his homework. Keep up the good work. Rating: Very Good Feature 13 LIKES... - The legend that was Dan Nolan- The new 12th Man jersey- robbie’s late late goal in Bari- Megan Fox- Mick back in the Premiership with Wolves- Dumb and Dumber- John o’Shea’s form this season- Sofia t-shirts- Pat Kenny leaving the late late- Shane lowry winning the Irish open- Buying The van for only a fiver- James McCarthy winning SPl Young Player of the Year - a senior cap??- The new YBIG flag- Garlic and cheese chips- Una Healy- The aul fella that threw the eggs at the aIB bosses- Bari locals- Big Jack reunion dinner in July- Green cotton wifebeaters- The price of match tickets and gargle in Sofia- Tangle twisters- Cats that have the ability to play the keyboard- alan Shearer relegating Newcastle- robbie making sure his son was born in Ireland because he didn’t want him playing for england ...dISLIKES - Noel Hunt and Doyler being injured- The death of the Keyboard Cat- lads using their Irish afros as sick bags in Bari- Not beating Bulgaria at home- Bertie promoting the league of Ireland- Tax levies- The Inbetweeners’ new series finished- Didier Drogba- Female comedians- Female drivers- Broken flutes- When you need a number two and there’s no bog roll - The reading lads not getting promoted- lads falling asleep in the boozer BeFore the game in Bari- When the elastic goes in your socks or boxers- Moths with tashes- The friendlies in Thomond being mid week- Duffer playing for Newcastle- The play-off league table for second placed sides - Boo boys at Croker who don’t have a clue- The dodgy boxes definitely gone- No charter flight to Sofia- lugging these bloody mags half way across europe- Bulgaria not using euro notes- The one poxy team that ruins your accumalator bet- another loI team’s finances in a mess The gaffer talks to the lovely Manuela Spinelli

14 Rant T HROUGH following Ireland I have received unprovoked verbal abuse from a small minor- ity of Ireland fans. I have been called a wh*re, b*tch and much worse besides. I have been on the receiving end of unprovoked physical abuse, being pinned up against a wall in Prague and being pushed in Bari, all at the hands of my fellow “fans”. And the reason for the disgusting behaviour I have encountered? I am a female Ireland fan…… with an English accent. Though I now live in the West of Ireland I grew up in London to Irish parents just like so many Ireland fans. I was part of a huge Irish community made up of a generation who had no choice but to leave Ireland when there was no work, no money, no prospects, something not too dissimilar to the present day situation. I had no choice in where I was born, in the accent that I speak with, or with being brought up Irish. I did make a choice though to follow MY country and be a dedicated supporter. I follow Ireland to just about every game home and away and have done for some time now and I am very proud to be Irish. Anyone who regularly attends Ireland trips home and away will be familiar with how many UK accents you will hear, testament to the unwavering support received from UK based fans over the years. Bare in mind that for many of these fans every home game is also an away game, with time off work, the cost of flights and accommodation mak- ing following Ireland an expensive enough pastime and one that requires dedication. And yet the reaction these fans receive is not always as it should be. A bit of banter and humour is never a problem, but referring to us as “Plastic Paddies” by way of an insult or asking us at an Ireland game who we would support if Ireland played England are the milder forms of ignorance we encounter, right up to the nasty verbal and physical abuse many of us have been subjected to over the years. Amongst a small minority of Ireland fans there is the assumption that second-generation Irish peo- ple (i.e. those born to immigrant Irish parents out- side the island of Ireland) have no credible claim to Irishness. This is despite the fact that Article 2 of the Irish constitution clearly sates “the Irish nation cherish- es its special affinity with people of Irish ancestry living abroad who share its cultural identity and heritage”. The Irish government legally recognises the Irish Diaspora: Those of Irish nationality who habitually reside outside of the island of Ireland, even if a small minority of our own fans refuse to. The ignorance of these people is further high- lighted when we consider that those who scream obscenities at us fans for having a non Irish accent, who tell us we will never be Irish, and who question why we are even following Ireland are the very same ignorant and narrow minded people who would have cheered on Ray Houghton when he put the ball in the back of the English net on that glori- ous day in June 1988. These are the same people who would have cheered Jason McAteer scoring against Holland to send us through to the playoffs in 2001. These same people will have no doubt over the years cheered on Andy Townsend, Phil Babb, Mick McCarthy, Kevin Kilbane, John Aldridge, Paul McGrath, Terry Phelan, Eddie McGoldrick, and David Kelly all of whom were born outside of Ireland too. Clearly the words “Diaspora”, “Emigration” and “second-generation Irish” mean nothing to these people. Well given the current economic situation we find ourselves facing, these so called “fans” might want to learn a few of these words as there is Lowering the tone The craic was mighty, best fans in the world, a credit to their country, no arrests, no fights, partying to all hours with the locals. We can bask in these type of headlines but sometimes their can be a nasty unreported side to a very small MINORITY of fans. “It is the entitlement and birthright of every person born in the island of Ireland, which includes its islands and seas, to be part of the Irish Nation. That is also the entitlement of all persons otherwise qualified in accordance with law to be citizens of Ireland. Furthermore, the Irish nation cherishes its special affinity with people of Irish ancestry living abroad who share its cultural identity and heritage.” - ARTICLE 2, THE IRISH CONSTITUTION Rant 15 a much greater chance of them or a member of their family having to move away from Ireland, and their children, or relatives growing up with non irish accents. Will that make them any less Irish? Hopefully they will choose to follow the Irish football team where they will be welcomed by the majority of brilliant fans who appreciate another dedicated fan joining the ranks. Hopefully they will not have to put up with abuse and stupid comments because of their accent from a small minded few. Abusing Ireland fans because they have a non Irish accent should be no more acceptable than if the abuse were because of the colour of their skin or because they had a disability. But this is not the case, and the views of the igno- rant few are slowly tarnishing the good name of Ireland fans. This is not a new problem, its some- thing fans have had to put up for years; it’s just unfortunate that it has taken these Irish men being physically and verbally aggressive towards a female fan to highlight this issue once again. We have amazing fans, and this is why I, and I’m sure many others, keep on going to the games. I have made some amazing friends, have been made to feel incredibly welcome and love the craic we have on the trips. The vast majority of Ireland fans are disgusted by the behaviour of this minority towards their fellow fans. Irish fans along with the FAI will not tolerate this kind of behaviour. So for those who still think noth- ing of having a go at us fans with non Irish accents you would do well to keep your ignorance to your- self in future, because you know what? Your views put you firmly in the minority. We are Irish whether you like it or not and we will always be there, so get used to it or get lost. I HAD A MACEDONIA BOB HOSKINSpercy This is hoskins’ second time having a Macedonia in YBiG. On the recent trip to Bari, Bob went on a bit of a mad one the first night ( the night before the game). After boozing all day and night, he decided to go back to the hotel but as is often the case when full of liquor, he hadn’t a clue where to go. Quick-thinking hoskins decided to jump on a train for some kip. so off he went as far as Napoli (Over an hour away), a bit of shut eye on the train and then back again by which time the bars were opening in the Old Town square in Bari. hoskins duly met up with the lads, same clothes as he had been wearing for two days, ordered some more booze, fell asleep in the pub and missed the match. D’oh! sTiLL struggling from the night before, Percy put on a show of strength as he forced the gargle down the day of the match in Bari. Percy was clobbered up in a Bari T shirt and a pathetic looking wig he found some- where the night before. Off he marched with the rest of the lads to hop on a free bus to the stadium by which time his face was as green as the t-shirt. Cue a chorus of chants toward the gaunt, frail, figure of Percy before he just couldn’t help himself and bang, puke all over the bus and into the wig. Last time he will try keeping up with the young lads. D’oh! Percy getting banjoed and below is a pic of his wig after he filled it full of puke

16 Bari in Photos

16 Bari in PhotosBari in Photos 17

18 FanZone Dan nolan...the legend lives on T here will be a familiar face missing in Sofia this weekend. he had promised to be here. Mixing it with the younger folk, sharing the gags and, literally, being the life and soul of the party. It’s not the first promise Dan Nolan made con- cerning Irish football. About seven years ago he promised his ill wife that he would continue to travel away with the Boys In Green to countries all over the world, and to live life to the full following her passing. That is one promise Dan certainly kept. Big time. But, as it turns out, Sofia proved a step too far, even for a man who could out-party many a younger Irish fan down through the years. At 75 years of age, Dan was one of Ireland’s best known fans and there are plenty of nostalgic stories doing the rounds. Famous for his wit and one-liners such as: “I will wear a jersey with eircom on it when John Delaney wears a jersey with Dan on it,” Dan will be sorely missed by everyone who has had the pleasure of meeting him while supporting Ireland. Dan was diagnosed with cancer just before the Italy game in Bari and at the time he insisted that he would bounce back and travel to Sofia. Unfortunately, it proved too much for him. here is what some fans had to say about Dan... Soccerc: It’s with a heavy heart I have just learned that Dan Nolan passed away a few hours ago.Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis ASh: Jesus that’s sad news. rIP Dan.hopped in a taxi with himself and Paul in Tel Aviv to go to the U21 game and met him at every away game I got to after that. Sligo hornet: A true Legend.....fantastic sense of humour....I think it was in Mainz when he asked a very tall fella: “how tall are you?”...to which the guy replied: “6 foot 4”....Dan responds: “Jaysus, I didn’t know they could stack sh*te that high!!” tuff PAddy: I remember being in a bar in Bologna with a load of Irish fans the night before the San Marino game and a big cheer went up when this auld fella walked in. I said to one of the lads: “Who’s yer man?”And the answer came back: “That’s Dan Nolan, he’s a legend, he goes eVerYWhere”. neil Mcd: Very Sad news, a great character and a great stalwart of the Boys in Green. Met him a few times in Bologna, Mainz and Montenegro and my condolences to Paul and the rest of his friends and family. A sad day for the Boys in Green. Sligo hornet: he truly was the nicest “miserable n This flag, a tribute to Dan, will hang proudly in Sofia made by Sligo Hornet and co. ‘I remember being in a bar in Bologna and a big cheer went up when this oul fella came in. Someone said: ‘That’s Dan Nolan, he’s a legend.” FanZone 19 ol’ git” I have ever met. Saint tom: I had the privilege of travelling to a number of games over recent years with the man. He lived for the trips, and when you met him at home he just loved talking about places he’d been.I first met him in Tel Aviv and have been good friends with him and Paul Gibson ever since. He walked around for most of that trip wearing a Jewish skull cap!Just one of those characters who made an impact on me, full of life and just enjoyed himself in his old age.We arrived in frankfurt the Thursday before the game in Mainz, realising that Mainz wasn’t going to be busy until the next day we stayed in Frankfurt. We went to one of these typical German eateries, loads of good pork and beef dishes and delicious frothing beers. After a fair few beers and a great after-noon’s conversation we decided to order food. Dan orders the biggest steak in the place and just as he is about to get stuck in, he turns to the owner of the place and says: “Have you got any brown sauce?” The look of disgust on his face when the fat bearded German fella didn’t know what he was on about! moScowmule: I think the first time I met, sorry bumped into Dan, was in a bar in Prague. He was being body surfed out with the biggest grin I have ever seen. And that from a man in his 70s!. You could not have had a more fitting name for that bar - Legends. caroG: R.I.P Dan. I saw him on many away trips but only actually met and spoke to him in Budva in Montenegro. He was mad for the sing song and dancing the night away. A true, true character. Greenforever: The first time I remember properly meeting Dan was in Basle 03, in O’Reillys, he was full of life and great fun. Since then I think I’ve met him and Paul at virtually every away game.He was without doubt an absolute gen-tleman and never ever in bad form. Dan, you were without doubt a legend and will be sorely missed. noSnowman: Been away last week only found out about Dan’s sad passing in the Star yesterday. What a lovely man, met him in Tel Aviv, shared the same hotel as him. He nearly talked the knick-ers off the barmaid! A very funny man. One in a million. Gone, but will never be forgotten. R.I.P. legend lives on (Middle pic) Dan with Tom and on the right, Dan supping a tinny with Gibbo in San Marino Keep an eye out for Dan’s friends wearing these t-shirts of Dan in Sofia ‘“Have you got any brown sauce?” The look of disgust on Dan’s face when the fat bearded German fella didn’t know what he was on about’

20 Guide to Sofia About SofiA As the capital city of Bulgaria, sofia has some- thing to offer every visitor. Renowned throughout the world for its electrifying nightlife, this city is ideal if you want to party as many bars keep serv- ing until the last punter leaves. Bars and cafes generally stay open until 5am and then the city’s clubs take over until whatever time people choose to go home. where to drink the best bars are on Vitosha Boulevard where you will find everything from dance clubs to smaller venues playing rock music. trAveller tipS * Watch out for the Bulgarian taxi drivers. the best thing to do is order a cab at your hotel from a reputable company. * Check your bills properly when leaving restaurants and bars to ensure extra taxes haven’t been added. where to StAy (four StAr) Les FLeurs From €86 per room per night the Les Fleurs hotel is in a great location on Vistosha street in the city centre. the hotel is ide- ally situated close st Nedelya square, which has a vast choice of bars and restaurants. Guests can enjoy a tasty menu of european dishes along with a range of fine wines from the hotel’s fashionable ‘Le Bouquet’ restaurant. soFia pLaza From €88 per room per night the sofia Plaza is centrally located just a few minutes from st Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, one of the most beautiful cathedrals in eastern europe. the hotel is housed in an historic building where Guide to Sofia Bari proved a memorable trip and Bulgaria promises to be the same. Our travel partners, holtels.com, give their quick guide to Sofia. guests can relax and unwind after a day of football or a night on the town. hoteL Vega soFia From €101 per room per night situated in the south east of the city, the hotel Vega sofia is perfect for those looking for some lux- ury. Relax and revitalise in the hotel spa with a soothing sauna, a soak in the hot tub or a deep tis- sue massage. three StAr hotelS Brod hoteL From €50 per room per night Offering scenic views across the green slopes of Vitosha Mountain, the Brod hotel is a modern cor- ner block property. After a day’s sightsee- ing, guests can sam- ple traditional Bulgarian food and wine in the hotel res- taurant or enjoy a cocktail accompanied by live music in the hotel’s club-style bar. harmony hoteL soFia From €67 per room per night the harmony hotel is an excellent property located in quieter part of the city and beside the best shop- ping area of the Vitosha Boulevard. All guests have unlimited use of the indoor and outdoor swimming pools, or can enjoy the sauna and sports facilities. Be sure to book early!! All hotels can be booked by visiting hotels.com or calling 1 800 55 33 38. For more information and travel tips on planning your holiday visit www.hotels.com or call 1800 55 3338 to wake up happy on your holiday! ON THE SEVENTH DAY STAR SUNDAY HAS CREATED A LITTLE SOMETHING EXTRA FOR MEN.... '2%!4%3435--%245.%3 +INGS

ON THE SEVENTH DAY STAR SUNDAY HAS CREATED A LITTLE SOMETHING EXTRA FOR MEN.... '2%!4%3435--%245.%3 +INGS

A League of Ireland team in another financial mess, RONAN O’FLAHERTY bemoans the never ending LOI merry go-round, but at least Dave Rogers raised a smile with his cheeky antics 22 League Of IrelandBum deals all round! I t just wouldn’t be the League of Ireland without the obligatory splattering of bad news. It only seems like five minutes ago that Cork City entered examinership. Having survived that scare, surely that’d be the end of financial worries on Leeside, at least for a couple of years anyway. But no, the Rebels have been set a mid-June deadline, by which time they must come up with the funds - in the region of 100k - to keep the club afloat. Surely these financial troubles haven’t come out of nowhere. A football club doesn’t just wake up in the morning suddenly owing 100k. And that’s only the beginning of it. Somewhere down the line, providing Cork over- come this latest hurdle (and that’s a rather sizea- ble ‘if’), Alan Mathews is going to come calling for what he firmly believes he’s due. And it would be hard to disagree with him. Having kept the Cork City players motivated through the examinership process - a time when they were only being paid 30 percent of their wages - Mathews then went one better by guiding the club to Setanta Sports Cup success. Bear in mind that this all happened just last season. tom Coughlan assumed ownership of the club during the off-season and logical thinking would have suggested that Mathews’ job was as safe as Alex Ferguson’s. But somehow, Coughlan found it within himself to remove Mathews from his position and replaced him with Paul Doolin. Doolin is clearly a fine manager, as his suc- cess at Drogheda United proves, but to deprive Mathews of the opportunity to guide Cork City on to bigger and better things seems a very unfair move by Coughlan. It might also prove to be a very costly sacking, which, in essence is what happened to Mathews - he was sacked with two years still to run on his deal. then you come to Bohemians. Runaway League Champions last season, surely they have the quali- ty within their ranks capable of turning a few heads in Europe this summer and maybe, just maybe, make the much- spoken-about break- through into the Champions League group stages. Such great hope now appears a distant dream, however, as the Phibsboro club are facing severe financial difficulties. Gypsies boss Pat Fenlon has acknowledged that he may well have to sell key players to bring the club in line with the 65 percent wage cap rule. But that barely scratches the surface of the prob- lems facing Bohemians, with a pending court appeal over a land disagreement hanging over Dalymount Park like the darkest of clouds. that was a very brief overview of the problems inherent in two of Ireland’s leading clubs. In fact, at the time of writing they are Ireland’s foremost leading clubs, lying first and second in the Premier Division. One shudders to think what problems are being allowed to linger on at other clubs. No doubt they will all become public knowledge in time. It all makes for tiresome reading for the aver- age League of Ireland enthusiast while, at the same time it somehow provides ammunition for the barstool English Premier League fan who - more often than not - finds a perverse pleasure in the misfortune (ok, more like misman- agement) of soccer clubs from their own country... alas, that’s another day’s rant. But shame on those people none- theless - those ‘fans’ who took the easy option by ‘supporting’ Europe’s elite and failing to acknowledge their local club – they will never know what it’s like to experience a true and genuine connection with a football club. So with top clubs facing financial uncertainty, the n Fenlon looking smug during Bohs’ recent clash with Rovers - before the Hoops hit two late goals League Of Ireland 23 recession being spoken of on the news every day, swine flu refusing to go away and hangovers feeling worse than ever, it’s hard to believe that there are still people out there with a sense of humour - but indeed there are. Step forward Dave Rogers. The Dundalk defender paid the ultimate price for a stupid, yet harmless gesture towards St Pat’s fans during the league clash at Oriel Park on May 22. R ogers received his marching orders for allegedly ‘mooning’ in front of the assembled section of away supporters, but in truth, to describe what Rogers did as ‘mooning’ would be akin to suggest- ing that Dave Barry should endorse Brylcreem. Dundalk’s subsequent decision to sack Rogers seemed excessive in the extreme and, at the time of writing he is exercising legal channels in his bid to prove a case of unfair dismissal. The following Monday night’s edition of MNS made for interesting viewing. When speaking about the Rogers situation, Tony McDonnell spoke very sensibly, as did Damien Richardson, by suggesting that a week’s wages would be punishment enough. Eoin Hand, who interestingly felt the need to remind viewers that he’s not a ‘prude’ - even though nobody had suggested anything of the sort to begin with - fully backed Dundalk’s decision to sack Rogers. Moral opinions on such a childish act are in many ways irrelevant. What is relevant is that a man with a wife and kids has been removed from employ- ment and, in time, it may become clearer that Dundalk’s rea- soning for dismissal was more financial- based than a direct result of moral outrage. Either way it certainly seems as though Rogers got a bum deal. So, following the recent goings-on at Dalymount Park, Turner’s Cross and Oriel Park, it’s fair to say that the weird and wonderful League of Ireland is refusing to change its ways. Roll on next weekend’s matches! It’s great to see Keith Fahey doing so well in England. Now a Premiership player with Birmingham, Fahey was back home watching Shamrock Rovers and Bohemians ‘Dundalk’s subsequent decision to sack Rogers seemed excessive in the extreme’

24 League Of Ireland This is what it’s all about, real football watched by real fans S aturday, May 16, 2009. For many soccer, ahem, ‘fans’ in Ireland, that date would be significant because all over the country, public houses were packed with people watching Manchester united winning the English Premier League. ‘Supporting’ a team from the comfort of the arm- chair or a bar is not my thing however. But, the fact is, there was a match of much more significance taking place that day. real football, and watched by real fans. It was tallaght, and rovers v Bohs. the scum’s first visit to out new home and the excitement lead- ing up to this game had my stomach in knots for days beforehand. tallaght has been a huge success to date. a few days before our match with drogheda last week, I was pleas- antly surprised when two young kids asked me if I was going to the rovers match to which I said yes and asked if they were also going. they said they were not (with that look of disappoint- ment on their faces) because they couldn’t get tickets. I told them they were still on sale and, with a bounce in their step, they started to run for home in the hope their parents would get them tickets for the game. the community interaction has been immense but it was the Bohs match when the tallaght revo- lution truly took off for many of the faithful Hoops supporters. as always, the Garda presence was huge, add- ing tension to an already highly-charged atmos- phere. this is what football is all about and little did I know that a couple of hours later I would be celebrating one of the most memorable wins of my Shamrock rovers life. the Maldron provided the pre-match beer, before a quick check to make sure the ticket was still in my wallet and across the road we rambled, giving the Bohs fans a bit of stick before taking our places in the very vocal rovers end. Jason Byrne scored against us yet again, and things weren’t looking too well as the scum fans gave it large, singing all their old favourites. I hate them. Hate Bohs with a passion. the Big Club my arse. their club is falling apart and their attendances, for champions, are pathetic. Just give us a goal rovers. anything to take the pain away. I can’t bear to lose against this shower again. “all stewards to end of match posi- tions” is a depress- ing call when you are one down against your fierce rivals. the tension is unbearable. the fear of another defeat against them even worse. Enter Gary twigg. What follows is six minutes of hysteria. Six min- utes if mayhem. Six minutes of pure heaven. Six minutes that will never, ever be forgotten. two goals in two minutes, the two final minutes, against the Gypos. to win the game. you can’t buy that feeling. Hugging the fans next to you, everyone with smiles upon their faces, fans on the pitch, with their tops off, standing and jumping on their seats. this is real football on this is what supporting your team is all about. Jaysus, we haven’t had too many moments like this in the past few years so we will make the most of this one. two-one to the big club. O twigg of Scotland, when will we see... Keep on Hooping. Shamrock Rovers fan Joe gives his account of the recent Dublin Derby between Rovers and Bohs in Tallaght Stadium

League Of Ireland 25T here can be no doubt that the first Dublin Derby (with the greatest respect to St Patrick’s Athletic fans) in Tallaght Stadium was more important to Shamrock rovers and their supporters than it was to members of the Bohemians community. That said, there was definitely an air of anticipation among Bohs fans in the weeks leading up to the game. The sense of tension was fed by many factors. Factor one – the north/south divide. Yes; it exists. A lot of hardcore Bohs fans, hailing from the heartlands such as Finglas (known to its natives as God’s coun- try) and Cabra, have never actually been to Tallaght. Why would they? Maybe a schoolboy game, some- thing like that. That might be about all though. They’d obviously have heard bits and pieces about it though, stuff like rovers’ belief that it is the hardest area in europe. We’re all guilty of local pride in the League of Ireland though. Another factor feeding the hype was the fact that Tallaght “Stadium” only actually comprises one stand, which holds, depending on who you listen to, between 3,300 and 3,500 people. You also have people stand- ing behind the goal for most games now, and people standing two and three deep in the rovers singing section, so the ground (stand) never actually looks full on tv. The limited capacity meant a limited ticket allocation of course, and a lot of Bohs fans were disappointed. Without wanting to get into the what-iffery of the num- bers game, a lot of people who wanted tickets didn’t get them, and a small, loud away support was cor- ralled into the end of the stand nearest the Square, away from the vocal home fans. Getting to the ground had the feel of a proper tense derby game, like it actually meant something to peo- ple. It’s always like that when we play the Pigs. There are fixtures for pleasantries, and this is com- prehensively not one of them. The walk from the Luas terminus to the entrance was pretty much as expected. A bit of hatred came across the road from the direc- tion of the hotel, and the Gardaí eventually stepped in to prevent any pavement dancing. Once inside the ground, there was a fairly substan- tial steward and Garda presence separating the away support from the few loud rovers fans who planted themselves near us. There was plenty of verbal exchanges between the two sets of fans. The lines of stewards and Gardaí left a few gaps in their defence around the same time, and there were brief charges back and forth, harm- less over exuberance and high jinx for the most part. rovers and their fans got a finish straight from heaven, and Bohs were left to rue a performance that was not as focussed as it might have been. Curiously timed leaks to newspapers days earlier about Bohs financial difficulties cannot have helped the players on such an enormous occasion, and one has to wonder how such things come about. In the main though, Bohs under Fenlon try to avoid making excuses. Performances on the day were not as expected. In the longer term, things will be put right. even bearing in mind the fact that it was always going to be a bigger occa- sion for rovers than for Bohs, it still hurt. A lot. For those who know, no explanation is necessary. We will be the ones lifting trophies at the end of the season, certainly not them. We will still be the ones lifting trophies, not Rovers Bohemians fan Seamus O Conchuir gives his account of the recent Dublin Derby between Rovers and Bohs in Tallaght.

26 Book Review political outcasts W hilst the fascinating yet sad fate of Belfast Celtic has been brought back to the fore of Irish Football thanks to Barry Flynn’s insight into the West Belfast club in his book ‘Political Football – The Life and Death of Belfast Celtic’, football in that part of the city has once again been through its fair share of controversy in the last year. Despite finishing 11th in a 16 team league in 2008, Donegal Celtic were relegated for being ranked 13th on the criteria for the new 12-team invitational IFA Premiership. Sentiments of vic- timisation were felt amongst the Wee Hoops fans, invoking memories of Belfast Celtic, who felt the full force of sectari- anism throughout their cheq- uered history. This included the infamous St. Stephen’s Day clash with Linfield in 1948, when a last minute equaliser for the Blues’ led to fans invading the Windsor Park pitch, and assaulting Belfast Celtic players, breaking the leg of centre-forward Jimmy Jones; which was the final straw for the Hoops. Back to 2008, and whilst talk of apply- ing to join the League of Ireland may have been hyped up by the press, it was always going to be a non-starter given the close proximity of Donegal Celtic’s club to the IFA Headquarters. Instead, Donegal Celtic were going to have to work their way back to the top-tier of football from the IFA Championship. They played well enough to fin- DONEGAL CELTIC FEEL HARD DONE BY ish second and earn a play-off against the Premiership’s sec- ond-bottom club. However, another twist in the tale came in late February, when Bangor Football Club announced they would not be able to renew their license given their dire financial difficulties. Bangor continued to play out the season, finishing in the rel- egation playoff spot above bot- tom place Dungannon Swifts. DC felt that they should be promoted automatically, as Bangor were unable to play in the Premiership next year, and should have to forfeit the play- off, with Dungannon going down automatically. However, it was decided that Dungannon would contest the playoff match instead, with DC’s appeal against the deci- sion not being decided until the day of the match. DC went on to lose the playoff on away goals, and with it the let the legal challenges begin... The quality of football at Donegal Celtic Park might not always be Pele-standard, but the drama is worthy of Dream Team. The tense relationship between Donegal Celtic and the IFA means that sadly poli- tics and football are never far apart for the team from West Belfast. With the release of a new book on the demise of Belfast Celtic, CRIOSTOIR O’SIADHAIL sees some parallels with the current plight of Donegal Celtic. n Dungannon celebrate their win over Donegal Celtic

28 Forum Watch away DAYS GazshAt the Holland match in Amsterdam in 2000 with my dad - the two all game. I was only 16 and after a few beers in the pub I was absolutely rat arsed so I went outside the pub for a bit of air. One of the Irish lads offered me a smoke and even though I didn’t smoke at the time I thought it was a good idea. When he opens his cigarette box there’s about 20 spliffs in the thing and I took one off him and smoked it. Having never smoked grass before, all in front of my proud father who was sitting in the pub watching all this.So I finish my smoke and go back into the pub and start get the spinnies immediately. I then put my head out the window and got sick all over some Irish fella’s shoes. My dad frog marches me three miles back to the hotel and throws me into bed.I woke up five hours later and it’s bout 10pm and I’m thinking to myself that I’m a gobsh*te for ruining my dad’s day. So I was very surprised to see an empty room when I turned around. Half an hour later, my dad falls in the door locked and puts this postcard on the bedside table and falls into bed. I look at the postcard and it’s from the banana bar with some strippers signature saying: ‘To Andy, best wishes, Chantelle’ My dad says to me, quick as a flash, you don’t tell your mother about the banana bar and I won’t tell her about the grass. We still laugh about it today and my poor mother is still none the wiser. RoGeRmillaTHere was at least 5-6,000 in Portugal for the game and there were a gang of lads all dressed up as Arabs (they looked class). They were up on the front row of the second level looking down on everyone. There was another gang of lads all dressed as elvis and as they walked underneath one of the Arabs shouted out “elvis!! Ya American Bastard!!” FReewheeleROuTSIde the Giants Stadium going into the game vs Italy in 1994. A uS TV reporter asked our mate Fergus (dressed as St. Patrick) what the mood was like in dublin. He said there was a bar-man strike as it happened and that if the strike con-tinued for the duration of the Irish games it’d make the LA riots look like Sesame Street. Tash KenTdrinking in the airport in London before an away game in Hungry and just about to go to our flight when we discovered two eejits drinking with us have booked to go to Bucharest instead of Budapest by mistake! Tash KenTArrIVInG back to my days Inn hotel in Orlando and a taxi pulled up with one very, very drunk Irish passenger. The taxi man asks if I know this guy. I say I don’t. The taxi driver then tells me he is at his sixth days Inn out of the 12 in Orlando, so I ask the drunken Irish guy is his hotel near a landmark that the taxi driver might know where to go…..and his answer was “it’s near a motorway”. The CoUnTBratislava last year, came back after a few sups to the Botel and all the staff were starkers in the reception getting it on! Caught rapid and when they opened the door/galley they all pretended it was a toga party and was someone’s birthday! SEPARATED AT BIRTH CALEB FOLANSCAry mOviE 2

Forum Watch 29 L oads of positives on here the last few weeks. Few negatives of course, someone stealing flags (good jaysus - seriously!!) and someone apparently abusing those that are not blessed with the rolling lilt of the soft Irish brogue.... but alas. Been a bit of a rollercoaster lately, the expecta- tions before the Bulgaria game, and of course for most of us there is only one team in the world capable of bringing those expectations crashing back to earth in such a speedy manner. There is also only one team in the world capable of bringing such joy and happiness only a few days later. That’s why we love them, and that’s why we support them. Ireland really are magic. Whether you are a lad, a lass, black, asian, white, old, young, disabled, whether you wear a leprechaun suit, Celtic shirt, dublin jersey, rugby shirt, wife-beater or go top- less, we all show our support in different ways and that’s what makes supporting Ireland such a mar- vellous experience. some of the best fans I know are twice my age (and some others are half my age). Each love sup- porting Ireland. They may not “display” their emo- tions in the same way, but that doesn’t mean they do not support or care for our team any less. some like to stand for the game, some like to sit, some like the quiet surrounds of a cosy bar, some like the packed club. There is an Irish World Cup highlight reel on Youtube, and a picture of an old man crying after an Ireland win. That old man is wearing neither a leprechaun suit, or an Ireland scarf. What do you say to him? Why are you crying old timer? You are not even wearing an Ireland shirt without the eircom logo signed by Jason Mcateer with Keane 6 on the back - you cant be a real fan? Let me hear you talk old man, go on, say some- thing, I want to see if you are really Irish? You get my point. We don’t all share the same background, club affiliations or allegiances. If we were all the same, we’d have f**k all to talk about, and would therefore have no need for this forum. I have been posting on here for about two years (I think) and I know there have been times when I may have offended someone. Either with my com- ments, or the manner in which they were presented. I never intentionally set out to do so, but I also realize that not everyone shares my sense of humor (humour for our Irish viewers) (editors note Billybunter lives in america), or may take it in the SEPARATED AT BIRTH SEAN ST LEDGERZOOLANDER spirit in which its intended. There have been times I am sure I have wished some people would f**k off because I disagree with them. I’m sure I am not going to send someone a threatening personal message telling them I’ll beat him up in the school yard after school. seems some people do that which is pretty f**king sad when you think about it. I enjoy it on here. I have never met anyone off this board in person (though I have shared many a stadium with a lot of you!) but I try to respect everyone, regardless of their viewpoint. N o point being invited to the party if you are only going to start trouble. I’m sure some one puts a lot of work into ensuring this site is up and running every day, a free magazine is printed every game, some good deeds are organized and taking place on a frequent basis. I don’t know what my point is, but it’s been frustrat- ing hearing some of the negative stories, whether it’s people being abused because of their accent, or a flag in honour of a sick child being stolen from its display. and another thing, people need to quit having a cheap go at one another. The Irish have a lovely way of getting our point across without being nasty - we should stick to that. For those of you that posted videos and pictures of the games thanks. You are bringing a little taste of the big game experience to many of us that are overseas - and it’s appreciated. all in all, it’s good to be a guest here on the YBIG forum. IT’S GOOD TO BE A GUEST ON YBIG...... By BILLYBUNTER