Conference trucks::football;1

    
    Apparently we've drawn the 2 strongest of the Baltic nations. 
    Lithuania beat Estonia 4-1 and drew 0-0 with Latvia while Latvia beat
    Estonia 2-0.  A reporter in the Irish Times reckons they're on a par
    with Norway or Finland and if that's true they'll be very dangerous
    opponents.
    
    I'd love for us to be the first country to play in one of those states
    since they regained independence however from a footballing point of view
    we'd be better off to let somebody else test the water.
    
    As for Albania, they'll be difficult at home but anything less than 4
    points would be a disaster.
    
    Gary.

The Irish delegation is off to Copenhagen on Jan 21st to negotiate fixtures
for the group. This would have been perfect as England's meeting with Holland,
Turkey, Poland and whoever was scheduled for Jan 20th, so we would have been 
able to go for fixtures on the same day as England, thus avoiding injuries.

However, the English meeting has now been postponed, but the English have told 
us what dates they will be looking for. So it should work out OK.

 - Kev

    
    No news yet on whether Albania will particilate or not.  The F.A.I.
    have been making noises about complaining to FIFA but so far they
    haven't done it.  They're probably right.  No sense in antagonizing the
    Albanians particularly if they do end up competing.  They have failed
    to confirm whether or not they'll attend the fixtures meeting in
    Copenhagen.
    
    Even if they do participate given the civil unrest in the country at
    present they will probably have to play their home games in Greece or
    Italy.
    
    It now seems quite likely that both Irelands will travel together to
    the Baltics and play on Wed/Sat or Sun.   May 1993 seems a likely date
    although we might still end up going there this year.
    
    Gary.

    
    Gary,
    
    What's the reaction in Ireland of going to the Baltics? Any comments in
    Irish press about the standars of Baltic football? Sweden have always
    put a great interest about the Baltic nations struggles for
    indipendence, but now when they got it, its very silent in the Swedish
    press.
    
    I know that many football clubs here in Sweden are helping Baltig clubs
    by giving away old match-dresses, footballs and other materials. When
    Baltic was a part of USSR, the exile goverments of Estonia and Latvia
    was residenting in Stockholm, so there have alwas been a close contact.
    The sportnews are now full of comments about USSR's segration (sp?) of
    sport, but nothing about Baltic football.
    
    Mats

    
    Mats, it's very much a journey into the unknown although an Irish
    amatuer side met Estonia in 1924. 
    
    There hasn't been much about the countries in the media.  The main
    problem is trying to get dates sorted out for 12 games.  Generally
    Lithuania and Latvia are considered dangerous opponents (I would guess
    that the Lithuanians should be much stronger) however they are not
    considered to be in the running for qualification.  They may eventually
    decide who qualifies though as points won't be easy to get in Vilnius
    or Riga.
    
    I'd like us to go there in May as I'd love us to be the first nation to
    play a competitive game there since they regained their independence.
    However from a footballing point of view it may be better to lety some
    other country play there first.  It seems likely we'll make one trip to
    the Baltics playing games on Wed and Sat/Sun either in May 1992 or May
    1993.
    
    Gary.

    Has there been any news on fixture dates for Irelands games, I thought
    the meeting was been held yesterday, can anyone file me in??????
    
                                                        regards...
    
                                                           -dave-   

    
    
22/4/92		Spain v Albania
28/4/92		NI v Latvia
26/5/92		ROI v Albania
3/6/92		Albania v Lituania
12/8/92		Latvia v Lithuania
26/8/92		Latvia v Denmark
9/9/92		ROI v Latvia
		NI v Albania
23/9/92		Latvia v Spain
		Lithuania v Denmark
14/10/92	NI v Spain
		Denamrk v ROI
28/10/92	Lithuania v Latvia
11/11/92	Albania v Latvia
18/11/92	NI v Denmark
		Spain v ROI
16/12/92	Spain v Latvia
17/2/93		Albania v NI
24/2/93		Spain v Lithuania
31/3/93		ROI v NI
		Denmark v Spain
14/4/93		Lithuania v Albania
		Denmark v Latvia
28/4/93		ROI v Denmark
		Spain v NI
15/5/93		Latvia v Albania
25/5/93		Lithuania v NI
26/5/93		Albania v ROI
2/6/93		Lithuania v Spain
		Latvia v NI
		Denmark v Albania
9/6/93		Latvia v ROI
16/6/93		Lithuania v ROI
25/8/93		Denmark v Lithuania		
8/9/93		Albania v Denmark
		ROI v Lithuania
		NI v Latvia
22/9/93		Albania v Spain
13/10/93	ROI v Spain
		Denmark v NI
17/11/93	Spain v Denmark
		NI v ROI

    
    
        Gary sorry for not replying earlier, I was out of house, but thanks
    a Million. I reckon we should get there along with Denmark, Spain are
    still a good team, but not as good as they were four or five years
    back.  The two away games with lat and lit should be seeing a lot of
    folks spending their summer holidays in Eastern europe.
    
                                                 all the best...
    
                                                     -dave-

    
    
    Tickets for Ireland's forthcoming World Cup qualifiers will be very
    very scarce.  I've heard horror stories about the price being as high
    as �35 per game.  It seems certain that all tickets will be sold in
    blocks of 6 and possibly even blocks of 8 incl the 2 friendlies v
    Switzerland and U.S.A.
    
    Contrast this with the situation in Belfast where despite having only
    8,300 seats for each game they will be struggling to sell out most
    games.  They have offered 6 tickets for �50 in the South Stand or the
    incredible rip off price (:-) :-) ) of  �60 in the North Stand.  It's a
    case of buy 5 get one free.  
    
    As our game in Belfast is the last match and a possible qualifying tie
    the best chance of getting a ticket is to book it now.  Unfortunately
    my application for a block booking was turned down.  They cannot sell
    tickets for our game outside NI but will gladly sell me the other 5. 
    My application has been resubmitted under a different name through a
    friend in NI.  
    
    �50 is obviously very reasonable.  I hope to make the Lithuania game in
    April and obviously our match in Nov 1993.  I should have little
    difficulty in recouping �20 from the Denmark and Spain tickets.  I
    don't expect any takers for Latvia and Albania but I'm not doing too
    badly anyway.
    
    As tickets for our games are going to be so scarce it is well worth
    considering buying this block booking.  It could be your only chance to
    see Ireland during the campaign and Windsor is only 2� hours from
    Dublin.  However it would not do to leap around when Andy Townsend
    volleys home the winner.  :-)
    
    Gary.  

    
    
    I have spare tickets for Ireland's forthcoming friendlies
    v Switzerland and U.S.A.  They are West Upper stand (block UC)
    priced at �20.
    
    I have 2 tickets for each game and probably 2 more for the Switzerland
    game.
    
    These are not for for personal use (or for somebody you know well).
    
    The 2 tickets for Switzerland and U.S.A. are part of a block booking
    for the forthcoming W.C. games and I can give first option on the World
    Cup tickets should the owner of the block booking decide not to go to
    any games.
    
    The Switzerland game in on Wed March 24th @2.30 and the US.A. game is
    on Wed April 29th @ 5pm.
    
    If anybody is interested in any tickets please contact me at
    galvia::spain or DTN 7-890-2165.
        
    Gary.

    

Ireland got back on the winning trail yesterday with a 2-1 victory over
Switzerland in a poor game.  The Swiss came for a draw and made no impression
up front.  However they did take a shock lead on 22 minutes when Ronnie Whelan 
deflected Sutter's free kick past Bonner.  Within 2 minutes Tommy Coyne
equalised.  A Bonner kick out fell to Staunton whose excellent through ball
was controlled by Coyne and he finished superbly.  Most of the first half was 
non descript and the 24,000 crowd had little to shout about.  Tommy Coyne had
one other good chance but his poor first touch left him down.

Ireland dominated after the break without ever really threatening to win the 
game.  With 2 minutes left Egli pushed John Alridge as he ran onto a Liam
O'Brien cross and the american referee gave the penalty.  The referee was 
correct but many refs turn a blind eye to such incidents late in a game.  
Aldo scored from the spot to send the remaining spectators home happy.  Many 
had left early including most of the people near me.

While it wasgood to win we learnt little from the game.  I thought Tommy Coyne
was very limited but I'm definitely in a minority in that as some of the press 
and myt friends were impressed.  His first touch is poor although he is a good
trier and he took his goal well.  I would prefer to see Kelly or Aldo fill the 
striking role if we play 2 up front.  Still he'll be a useful squad member.
Eddie McGoldrick was injured and went off at halftime.  He'll get another 
chance and again is good cover but he's no Ray Houghton.

Packie had a competent game and did nothing wrong.  With Gerry Peyton now 35 
it's vital that Packie gets back to first team football.  Chris Morris as usual
had a nightmare game.  Paul McGrath was brilliant at centre back and David 
O'Leary had a good game before being replaced by Liam Daish who also did well.
Terry Phelan had an excellent game at left back.  The centre of our midfield was
poor and overrun.  Whelan wasn't match fit and Roy Keane had an off day before 
coming good late on and finally getting forward.  Staunton did reasonably well
on the left side of midfield and Sheedy alo did well when he replaced him.
Liam O'Brien replaced McGoldrick and did OK although he should have scored
with a free header late on.  Cascarino didn't make much of an impression up
front.  Aldo came on as a late sub and scored the winner.

Switzerland were disappointing.  The highly rated Chapuisat and Turkilmaz
were snuffed out by McGrath and O'Leary.  Both keepers looked shakey although
apparently their first 2 choices were unavailable.  They did defend well and
ran the midfield for much of the game without creating any clear openings.
team
Bonner, Morris, Phelan, O'Leary (sub Daish), McGrath,McGoldrick (sub O'Brien),
Keane, Whelan, Staunton (sub Sheedy), Cascarino, Coyne (sub Aldridge).

I've a ticket for sale. It's for the Ireland Vs USA friendly.
It in the upper terrace of the east stand (about 25 yards from the goal line).
the game is on April 29th KO @ 5pm.

Anybody interested??


		Mick

    
    Friendly played in Austria;
    
    Austria	-    Lithuania		4 - 0
    
    I think this result will please all you Irish. Austria isn't exactly
    one of the top nations in Europe, and 4 - 0 sounds like a comfortable
    win. It might be different to play in Vilnius though.
    
    Mats

Mats,

Yes, yes ...I take a bit of comfort from that result, although
reading into these friendlies is a waste of time, they mean nothing, as you 
Swedes are sure to agree with after the trip to Australia ;-)

- Kevin

>       <<< Note 130.14 by XSTACY::KMCGRATH "Long road, patient donkey" >>>
>
>Mats,
>
>Yes, yes ...I take a bit of comfort from that result, although
>reading into these friendlies is a waste of time, they mean nothing, as you 
>Swedes are sure to agree with after the trip to Australia ;-)
>
>- Kevin
    
    
    Kevin, i couldn't agree with you more...
    

	This group kicks off tonight with Spain v Albania. 

	

According to the radio this morning Spain beat Albania 3-0 last night. 

The comment was also made that Spain were not that impressive ... I hope we 
win a few games as unimpressively.


Fintan.

Result

Northern Ireland  2 : 2  Lithuania 

The North were 2 up within 16 minutes but Lithuania pulled them back with
goals just before and after half-time.

�rian.
 

WED Apr 29

		Rep Ireland 4 U.S.A. 1

After 2 unimpressive displays in recent friendlies Ireland finally came
good yesterday.

The first half was pretty poor with many of the home side appearing 
disinterested and the all seater crowd  very quiet.  Eric Wynalda almost gave 
the U.S. and early lead but it was one way traffic from there on.  The U.S.
side were very physical and the Irish seemed strangely reluctant top get 
involved.

The players obviously got a half time roasting and they came out all fired 
up for the second half.  The U.S. were slow to appear and this incensed the
home fans.  40 seconds into the half Quinn headed down and Townsend drove
home from 20 yards.  Minutes later Townsend was hacked down by Balboa as he
raced clear.  The referee's card was only yellow (so much for the new
ruling) by Denis Irwin extracted full retribution by curling the free kick into
the top corner.  Hugo Perez who was booed all afternoon for his feigning
injury and diving was then substituted.  Quinn made it 3 with a far post header
and Ireland were now rampant.  Cascarino ran 25 yards for a brilliant solo
effort culminating with a 20 yard strike.  Eric Wynalda scored a last gasp
consolation for the visitors.

This was a useful exercise for Ireland and a nice boost before we begin our
qualifying campaign for the Wrodl Cup.  The U.S. were missing their most 
influential player - Bruce Murray but they looked a second rate team.

Best for Ireland - Townsend, McGrath and Irwin.  Meola and Wynalda impressed
for the U.S.

teams

Ireland - Peyton, Morris, Irwin, O'Leary, McGrath, McGoldrick, McLoughlin, 
Townsend, Staunton, Quinn, Coyne - Milligan for Irwin, Carey for O'Leary,
Cascarino for Quinn, Aldridge for Coyne.

U.S. - Meola, Balboa, Savage, Armstrong, Doyle, Clavijo, Quinn, Perez, Harkes,
Wynalda, Vermes  - Kinnear for Perez, Ibsen for Savage, Eck for Vermes.

TUE Apr 28th

		Northern Ireland 2 Lithuania 2

Lithuania's first competitive game for over 50 years turned into a night of 
triumph as they held Northern Ireland to a 2-2 draw and indeed might have won.
The game failed to appeal to the local football public although I found it
very entertaining.  

NI started brightly and were 2 up in 16 minutes through Kevin Wilson and 
Gerry Taggart.  The Lithuania defence was in tatters and a cricket score looked
on.  Kingsley Black looked dangerous every time he got the ball.  

Suddenly the Lithuanians got some self belief and they started to trouble the 
home defence.  The crowd got restless as NI faded badly and it came as no 
surprise when Lithuania pulled a goal back just before the break.  The 31
visiting fans had been making most of the noise up to this and now the
celebrations started in earnest.  A brief NI flurry before the interval failed 
to produce a goal and they were further shocked early in the second half when
a 20 yard free kick found the corner of the net.  It looked a great free form 
where I was but apparently the keeper was badly at fault.  With the crowd
rubbing their eyes with disbelief and my mate and I rubbing our hands with glee
NI fell apart and Lithuania really ought to have won the game in the next 20 
minutes.  They were unlucky when a 35 yard free kick hit the bar and almost 
broke it.  NI then took over but failed to impose themselves and the draw 
always looked on.  NI did hit the bar with 15 minutes left but in the end 
the game had the right result. 

Jack Charlton was an interested spectator.  He's not too popular north of the
border after claiming "NI have no chance of qualifying but are dangerous 
opponents"  He must have permitted himself a wry smile at the end.  

    Re N.I. - Lithuania
    
    Was this a frienly or a World Cup qualifying match? I guess these
    "minnows" are a real mixed bag, not to be taken lightly at all.
    
    Re Ireland - USA
    
    Sounds like a solid thrashing. The USA seem to do OK in their own
    hemisphere, but it seems there is a long way to go when it comes to
    playing some of the better sides in the world. The more games like
    this, the better they will be. It may be one thing to beat Honduras,
    but to win points at the WC level, they need to pick it up a notch.
    Their goal is to (don't laugh) make it at least to the second round 
    in 1994, which seems rather far fetched at the moment. 
    
    How did John Harkes look? I haven't heard too much on him since he 
    made a splash at Sheffield Wednesday last season.
    
    Tom

    
    Tom, NI v Lithuania was the firt qualifying game for both countries.
    
    Harkes didn't play well.  i thought the U.S. midfield was overrun
    particularly in the second half.  However midfield is our stringest
    area.  The defence was rugged but a bit naive particularly when they
    backed off Cascarino for the 4th goal.  
    
    It could be a different story in Boston in June.  Home advanatge does
    make a difference at this level but I'd be disappointed if Ireland
    can't repeat the result but probably not the scoreline.
    
    Gary.

    Naive defence, huh? That's why, even if the result is painful, it is
    GOOD for the US to get stomped like this. That's the only way they will
    learn and improve.
    
    Home field advantage is fine, but not in the US! At the USA-Ireland
    match last year, the Irish fans (and there were a LOT of them) were
    making more noise than the American fans. Maybe it's a cultural thing,
    but Yanks don't seem to go for the singing on the terraces they way 
    Europeans do.
    
    For this reason, the US has begun playing important qualifying matches 
    (Olympics) in places in "Middle America," meaning small to medium sized 
    cities where almost all of the people are white and have little ethnic 
    identity. People might have, say, a German or Polish surname, but no one 
    in their family speaks the language, nor do they have any relatives in the 
    "old country." All of the large cities have lots of different natinoalities,
    and these people love soccer and will root against the US if a game is 
    in their area.
    
    Anyway, I'm looking forward to the Ireland matches in Boston vs Italy
    and Portugal in June. Both should be really good games against
    first-rate teams, and should also have a great atmosphere. Ireland also 
    play the US again in Washington.
    
    Tom  

    Anybody interested in a BUS/MINI BUS to the first match. Need to know 
    soon in order to organise. Ring 822-4567
    
    Stephen.
     

The Albanian team arrived yesterday via Tirana,Ljubiana and London much to the
relief of the FAI. The Albanians seem to have arrived literially with the shirts
on their backs ... they are supposed not to have brought a kit or even a 
football. The FAI have agreed to underwrite their trip to the tune of IR�30,000
which is much the same deal that Spain had to come up with to get the Albanians
to go there. It makes you wonder what will happen next April when Albania have
to travel to Lithuania, will they be able to afford the cost of an Albanian 
visit or will Albania have played enough games in the 'West' to subsidise the
trips to the lesser well off countries in our group by then.

The Irish team has been announced for tomorrows game though I still don't 
know it (rumour has it Mick McCarthy will be back).

Sorry and all as we feel for the 'rag-tag' Albanians (and I'm sure they'll get 
the biggest cheer tomorrow), I hope we give them the hammering of their lives
or at least beat them by more than the three goals Spain did.

Fintan.

    Is the game live on TV tomorrow? There is nothing about it in the RTE
    Guide. 
    
    Jimmy

    
    Game should be live but they will try and sell a few more tickets
    before doing the deal.  I'd be very surprised if they don't come to
    some arrangement.
    
    There are still block bookings available for the games.  Should be no
    more complaints from the "real fans" about not being able to get
    tickets.  They are pricey though.
    
    Gary.

The game tonight will be covered live on Network 2 starting at 5pm. 

5 of Albania's best players (which I assume means the ones who play in Greece)
did not arrive .... bummer !

Does anyone now the team yet ?

Fintan

    Irish team is:
    
    Bonner; Irwin, O'Leary, McGrath, Staunton; Houghton, Townsend, Keane,
    Sheedy; Quinn, Aldridge;
    
    The Albanians seems to be in a complete shambles off the field. They
    arrived without football & kit. The kit had to be rushed up from Adidas
    in Cork, then they discovered that the Albanian logo was changed 10
    days ago, so that had to be re-stitched. To make matters worse, their 6 
    Greek-based players could not leave Athens because
    of problems with their passports. This left them with only 10 senior
    players, 2 of whom are goalkeepers. So some of the Under-21s are to
    play today. In these circumstances, I cannot see today's game being a
    thrill a minute affair.
    
    Jimmy

    
    Rep of Ireland 2  Albania 0
     (Aldridge)
     (McGrath)

Albania	 (0) 1  Lithuania  (0) 0
Abazi 77

    
    Not the appropriate topic but whjo cares.
    
    
    On this day 4 years ago Ray Houghton scored the only goal in Stuttgart
    as Ireland beat England 1-0.  Happy anniversary.
    
    Gary.

         <<< Note 130.32 by GALVIA::SPAIN "There's always the U.S." >>>
                           -< Lest we might forget >-

    
>    Not the appropriate topic but whjo cares.
    
    
>    On this day 4 years ago Ray Houghton scored the only goal in Stuttgart
>    as Ireland beat England 1-0.  Happy anniversary.
    
>    Gary.


     Gary,

     A touch of Cunnovitis, seek urgent medical attention.

     Stuart

    
    
    Re -1, that reminds me.  I orgot to mention that the reason Ray scored
    was that all the English defence and Peter Shilton were watching TGA. 
    :-)
    
    Gary.
    
    PS when's the 12th anniversary of England's last win in a E.C. finals?

    
    Result from wednesdays game;
    
    Latvia   -   Lithuania      1 - 2
    
    The group table looks like this (i think);
    
    Lithuania		3   1   1   1	  4 - 4      3
    --------------------------------------------------
    Rep. of Ireland	1   1   0   0	  2 - 0	     2
    Spain		1   1   0   0     2 - 0      2
    Albania	        2   1   0   1	  1 - 2	     2
    Northern Ireland    1   0   1   0	  2 - 2      1
    Denmark		0   0   0   0     0 - 0	     0
    Latvia		1   0   0   1     1 - 2	     0
    
    Things will certainly change this fall...
    
    Mats

A slight correction to the table ...

 			Pl W  D  L  F-A   Pts

	Spain		1  1  0  0  3-0   2
	Ireland		1  1  0  0  2-0   2
	--------------------------------------
	Lithuania	2  1  0  1  2-2   2
	Albania		3  1  0  2  1-5   2
	N.I.		1  0  1  0  2-2   1
	Latvia       	2  0  1  1  3-4   1
	Denmark		0  0  0  0  0-0   0

(Latvia drew with NI 2-2 in April)

Fintan.

>>  <<< Note 130.36 by ESSB::MANNING "Blessed are the Cheese Makers ...... " >>>
>>                               -< Group 3 table >-
>>
>>A slight correction to the table ...
>>
>> 			Pl W  D  L  F-A   Pts
>>
>>	Spain		1  1  0  0  3-0   2
>>	Ireland		1  1  0  0  2-0   2
>>	--------------------------------------
>>	Lithuania	2  1  0  1  2-2   2
>>	Albania		3  1  0  2  1-5   2
>>	N.I.		1  0  1  0  2-2   1
>>	Latvia       	2  0  1  1  3-4   1
>>	Denmark		0  0  0  0  0-0   0
>>
>>(Latvia drew with NI 2-2 in April)
>>
>>Fintan.
    
    
    130.7   says   NI v/s Latvia
    130.18  says   NI v/s Lithuania
    130.10  says   NI v/s Lithuania
    130.36  says   NI v/s Latvia
    
    Who did NI really play??
    
    Mats

    
    
    oops.  It was definitely Lithuania.  The reason for the confusion was a
    typo when I typed in the fixture list.  I had NI down to play at home
    to Latvia twice.
    
    See .20 for a report on NI v Lithuania.
    
    Gary. 

    Sorry Mats, my mistake. I was using Garys list and had NI down for a
    2-2 draw against Latvia.
    
    Rgds,
         Fintan.

 			Pl W  D  L  F-A   Pts

	Lithuania	3  1  2  0  4-3   4
	Spain		1  1  0  0  3-0   2
	-----------------------------------
	Ireland		1  1  0  0  2-0   2
	N.I.		1  0  1  0  2-2   1
	Albania		3  0  1  2  0-5   1
	Latvia       	1  0  0  1  1-2   0
	Denmark		0  0  0  0  0-0   0

> ==============================================================================
> Note 130.31             World Cup qualifying Group 3                  31 of 41
> XSTACY::KMCGRATH "Long road, patient donkey"        2 lines   4-JUN-1992 10:30
>                             -< last night's game >-
> ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> Albania	 (0) 1  Lithuania  (0) 0
> Abazi 77
>
>
> ==============================================================================
> Note 130.41             World Cup qualifying Group 3                  41 of 41
> XSTACY::MDUNPHY "The Hit Man"                      10 lines  18-AUG-1992 19:57
>                         -< So the correct table is.. >-
> ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
> 			Pl W  D  L  F-A   Pts
>
>	Lithuania	3  1  2  0  4-3   4
>	Spain		1  1  0  0  3-0   2
>	-----------------------------------
>	Ireland		1  1  0  0  2-0   2
>	N.I.		1  0  1  0  2-2   1
>	Albania		3  0  1  2  0-5   1
>	Latvia       	1  0  0  1  1-2   0
>	Denmark		0  0  0  0  0-0   0
>

Sorting out the table of group three seems to create some difficulty. My table 
in .35 wasn't correct either. This must be the correct table, i just want to 
get the facts together. Good luck Ireland, and good luck Denmark. My hopes is 
for you.


 			Pl W  D  L  F-A   Pts

	Lithuania	3  1  1  1  4-4   3
	Spain		1  1  0  0  3-0   2
	-----------------------------------
	Ireland		1  1  0  0  2-0   2
	N.I.		1  0  1  0  2-2   1
	Albania		3  1  0  2  1-5   2
	Latvia       	1  0  0  1  1-2   0
	Denmark		0  0  0  0  0-0   0

Mats
                                       

    I'd like to see Ireland and Denmark qualify, but I think Spain will be
    very tough. Denmark have a lot to prove, showing the world that 1992
    was no fluke. It would be embarassing if they didn't qualify for the
    next tournament. 
    
    Ireland would be great in the USA, since the fans are a good-natured
    bunch, always out to enjoy themselves. They added a lot in atmosphere
    at all the US Cup matches, even if the team wasn't doing all that well.
    Unfortunately, Ireland seem to be getting old. Most of their key
    players are over 30, and unless they can get some new blood in there,
    they won't have an easy time qualifying.
    
    Tom

    
    I have 2 spare tickets for Ireland's forthcoming WC qualifier v Latvia.
    The game is on Wed Sept 9th at 5pm.
    
    They are West Upper stand tickets and are for sale at face value �25
    each.  The 2 seats are together.
    
    If you're interested please email me at galvia::spain or phone
    DTN 7-822-4654.
    
    Gary. 

    
    Latest Result
    
    		Latvia 0  Denmark 0
    
    Stephen C.
    

    
    Great result in Riga last night.  There's a long way to go yet though. 
    It's imperative that we beat Latvia next month in Dublin.  The Danes
    face a tricky trip to Vilnius at the end of next month.
    
    Gary.

    
    	Yes, tremendous and no doubt unexpected result for all you Irish
    	boys last night.
    
    	Ireland and Spain will both get a lift from that, as well as 
    	providing some early warning of what to expect they play there.
    	
    	It's in your own hands to qualify now...
    
    	Andy.
            

    Surprising result for Denmark, which could be costly in the long run. You
    have to figure that between Spain, Ireland and Denmark, whoever drops the 
    most in the games between each other would lose out. I didn't expect the 
    Danes to drop a point here...
    
    Tom

   I saw most of the second half live, and it was a very scrappy affair, 
Denmark had most of the chances, if you could call them chances. The game was
played in a very small stadium, and I guess there were no more than 5,000 folks
at the game, and about 1,000 of them were Danish......

    Good result for us, but it won't be easy to pick up two points in Latvia..
                                                     
                                                        all the best....

                                                             -dave-

    Anyone going to the game today vs Latvia ??
    
    I think it was a good decision by Jack to play Lerningham ( or whatever
    it is ) in defence. All our centre halves are well over 30 (nearly over
    35 ) and there has to be some new blood tried out there espicially.
    
    That's the only bit of team news I have... could anyone tell me the
    rest of the team please.

                            Bonner
    Irwin           Kernaghan     McGrath           Staunton/Phelan
    
    Keane         Whelan       Townsend          Sheedy
    
                    Quinn       Aldo
    
    
    ps. I'm not sure about the order of the midfield

    
    
    Rep. of Ire  2        Latvia 0
    Sheedy
    Aldridge
    

Ireland           4   Latvia      0

Sheedy
Aldrige 3, 1 pen 



Nice result, Aldridge was given man of the match. He had two excellent headed
goals plus a penalty with his infamous shuffle. Two of the goals were late 
enough with the last one being an absolute peach - great cross from Irwin and 
Johnny rose above the defence and targetted it into the top corner.

 - Kevin

    A hattrick from TGA - we all know what will happen next.
    
    Moderators please check that there is enough diskspace we wouldn't want
    to miss a word would we.
    
    Regards,
    
    Andrew.D.Wicks
                 

    I thought it was a good performance by Ireland after they scored their
    first goal but there was a few downers.
    
    Downpoints
    
    	� The left wing was very poor... Staunton just hoofed it every time
          he got the ball and had a poor game... Sheedy is no winger, never
    	  was.. Phelan must be in contention for a place somewhere on the
          left.
    
    	� Quinn was also quiet poor yesterday but this was mainly
    	  Staunton's fault. When Quinn went off Ireland played very well
    	  because they didn't have a target man up front therefore tried
    	  to pass the ball. I think against the weaker countries we
          shouldn't have a target man.
    
    Up points
    
    	� Although Kernaghan wasn't tested he looked very good in defence
    	  and he was even passing the ball. Looks to be a good combination
    	  with McGrath.
    
    	� Whelan was back to his best form yesterday and was superb in the
    	  second half... Whelan and Townsend midfield... nice
    
    	� TGA
    

    
    Man Of The Match  had to be ROY KEANE:-))

Result from Windsor park last night :

N. Ireland 	3	Albania	0

Total...

Ireland		7	Baltics	0


Table is...........

                P  W  D  L  F  A  Pts %
IRELAND		2  2  0  0  6  0  4   100
N.IRELAND	2  1  1  0  5  2  3    75
Lithuania	3  1  1  1  4  4  3    50
Spain		1  1  0  0  3  0  2   100
Albania		4  1  0  3  1  8  2    25
Denmark		1  0  1  0  0  0  1    50
Latvia		3  0  1  2  1  6  1    17

>       <<< Note 130.58 by XSTACY::KMCGRATH "Long road, patient donkey" >>>
>                          -< the other irish victory >-
>Result from Windsor park last night :
>
>N. Ireland 	3	Albania	0
>
>Total...
>
>Ireland		7	Baltics	0

Kev,

Go back to school, Albania is not a Baltic country, despite the "..ia"
ending....

Kevin.

go back to school.....

So much for the bowling episode, you just finished a promising relationship

some friend 8^)

Mick (who's too lazy to put in a report about the game) 

    Does anybody know why Houghton wasn't playing lastnight, he got man of
    the match for Villa at the weekend.

			Ireland 4 Latvia 0

Ireland impressed in crushing Latvia 4-0.  The Latvians came to defend and
did reasonably well in the first half.  They rode their luck on occasions, 
notably when Niall Quinn missed from 6 yards.  The breakthrough finally came
on 32 minutes.  Sheedy's pass was headed down by Quinn and Sheedy drove home.
This brought the rather subdued home fans to life.

The second half belonged to Ireland.  John Aldridge stole the show with a
superb hatrick.  Just after the hour he rose to superbly head Sheedy's free
kick to the bottom corner.  Tommy Coyne replaced an off form Niall Quinn and
immediately transformed the attack.  His running off the ball was superb and
his first touch seemed to have improved considerably.  He earned a penalty
10 minutes from time, drawing a foul from the frustrated Latvian central
defender who had earlier outplayed Quinn.  The customary Aldo shuffle ensured
the keeper went the wrong way.  Ireland played some superb football in the 
closing quarter and left the best wine until last.  A Denis Irwin cross was
powerfully headed home by Aldridge to make it 4.

This was a good result for Ireland.  We're top of the table with full points 
and 6 goals from 2 games.  The real campaign starts next month in Copenhagen.
A month later we meet Spain in Seville.  2 points from those 2 games will
ensure that Irish football fans have a very happy Christmas.

Team Bonner, Irwin, Staunton,Kernaghan,McGrath,Keane, Whelan, Townsend, Sheedy,
Quiin, Aldridge.  subs Coyne for Quinn and Phelan for Sheedy.


			Northern Ireland 3 Albania 0

This was not as convincing as the scoreline suggests.  Albania took the game
to Northern Ireland and only brilliant goalkeeping by Newcastle's Tommy Wright
saved Northern Ireland.  Colin Clarke scored his 13th goal for his country
after Albania had controlled much of the opening quarter.  Colin Clarke has now
set a new Northern Ireland goalscoring record surpassing the 12 goals scored
by Joe Bambrick,Billy Gillespie and Gerry Armstrong.  Kevin Wilson made it
2 after 30 minutes and Jim Magilton added a 3rd before the break.  NI cut 
through the Albanian defence at will but also looked vulnerable at the back.
Northern Ireland were content to defend their lead in the 2nd half which was
a dull and lifeless affair.  The Albanian manager considered Northern Ireland
a better side than the Republic.  

			
		Ireland		2 2 0 0 6 0 4
		Nthn Ireland	2 1 1 0 5 2 3
		Lithuania	3 1 1 1 4 4 3
		Spain		1 1 0 0 3 0 2
		Albania		4 1 0 3 1 8 2
		Denmark		1 0 1 0 0 0 1
		Latvia		3 0 1 2 1 6 1

    
    Martin has been strangely quiet in here.  This is in sharp contrast to
    his performance on the bus last night.  If ever anyone felt vindicated
    it was Martin.  And Ronnie Whelan had a blinder too.
    
    Now if I meet the guy that gave him the ticket on Tuesday........:-)
    :-)
    
    Latvia join the list of major footballing powers that have been
    terrorised by TGA.  Somehow I don't think the Danes or Spaniards will
    join the list but I hope I'm proved wrong.
    
    Gary.

Kevin & Mick,

Regarding 

Ireland 7 Baltics 0

......well, erm,um,squirm..its was a misspelling..honest,
..yeah, what i really meant was Irland 7 Baltix 0, which, if you were very 
educated would know, means "the other lot" in a little known dialect of 
Icelandic.



























So there!

    Two nil all draws last night between Latvia and Spain and also between
    Lithuania and Denmark. That's an excellent result for Lithuania
    particularly as they were missing 6 of their regular first team
    players. They're not bad results for Ireland either.
    
    Jimmy

		Latvia 0 Spain 0

Screensport had live coverage of this game.  The British commentator kept 
promising us goals and we kept hoping he'd be wrong.  It always looked like a
scoreless draw.  Latvia defended well and Spain were lacking in ideas.  Indeed
Latvia had the 2 best chances in the first half.  Only brave goalkeeping
denied Spain in the second half.  This result will be celebrated in Dublin
and Belfast as well as Riga.


		Lithuania 0 Denmark 0

This was denmark's second nightmare in the Baltics.  Yet again they dominated 
the game and yet again failed to score.  The Lithuanians were short 6 first
choice players but still achieved a historic draw.  The Danes best chance
came on 56 minutes when Kim Christofte was fouled in the box.  He elected to
take the penalty himself but it was saved by the keeper's legs.

			
		Ireland		2 2 0 0 6 0 4
		Lithuania	4 1 2 1 4 4 4
		Nthn Ireland	2 1 1 0 5 2 3
		Spain		2 1 1 0 3 0 3
		Denmark		2 0 2 0 0 0 2
		Albania		4 1 0 3 1 8 2
		Latvia		4 0 2 2 1 6 2

             
    	Two more excellent results for you Irish boys. Now cash in
    	and win your own games for early qualification...
    
    	Andy.

    Good news for Ireland inrecent weeks has been Packie Bonner's return to
    Celtic's first team. While he will not be playing against FC Cologne
    tonight, Brady has said that this is because of the foreigner rule and
    that Bonner will be back in the first team at the weekend. 

    Two withdrawals from the squad for next week's game against Denmark.
    Ronnie Whelan had an operation on a thigh muscle the dat before the
    squad was announced (Liverpool had been unable to contact Jack Charlton
    beforehand). Paul McGrath picked up an injury on Saturday and was
    withdrawn by Ron Atkinson yesterday.
    
    Jimmy

    
    Is Jack going to call up any replacements? Liam O'Brien is playing out
    of his skin at the moment.
    
    Tim

    McGrath out... That means our "fantastic" man is in.
    Brian Laudrap will go past him, wait for him to catch up and then 
    go around him again. I dread to even think about it.

    For anybody interested in going to Seville tak a look at this offer
    available from the Travel Office @REO.  (830-4415).  The cost of one
    person's fare from Heathrow to Seville is 195; the cost of a two
    travelling together is 196 pounds...yes, only a quid for the second
    person.  The flights leave Tue/Wed/Sat with the stipulation that you
    must stay over a Saturday night.  For anybody intereted in a week's
    holiday plus the game looks like a good deal even allowing for the
    cost of flights from Ireland to Heathrow.
    
    Shane

    Paul McGrath is not definitely out just yet. Charlton thinks that with
    intense physio he should be able to travel. I guess if it is left up to
    Paul, you can be sure he will be on that Plane.
    
    Stephen
    

    McGrath is out, so is Staunton and Whelan, it reminds me of the last
    time Ireland went to Spain to go down 2-0. Looks like Kernaghan is in,
    that will test him.
    
    Any news on Sheedy ??

    
    Although Sheedy missed Saturday's game he is expected to make the
    qualifier. Liam O'Brien has been drafted into the squad - He's playing
    extremely well at the mo.
    
    Tim

    I reckon we'll be hockeyed!!... 
    
    and you though a Danish Backlash was a form of mutant bun...!!
    
    We'll do well to get away with our shorts on.
    
    *Tiger*

    Charlton said yesterday that Kernaghan will play as will Aldridge.
    Sheedy remains the only doubt as he is still under treatment for his
    injury. The big question mark is over who partners Kernaghan at the
    back. Apparently, Charlton's first choice was Paul McGrath and his
    second was McCarthy. As neither of them are in the squad it's between
    Moran and O'Leary. With the former being drafted in only yesterday, I
    expect O'Leary will get the nod. So assuming that Sheedy is fit, the
    team will probably be:
    
    Bonner; Irwin, Kernaghan, O'Leary, Phelan; Houghton, Keane, Townsend,
    Sheedy; Quinn, Aldridge;
    
    Keane will take on the McGrath/Whelan role in midfield. If Sheedy
    doesn't make it, McLoughlin will probably come in to the team.
    
    Jimmy

    
    	re .78...
    
    	re: Danish Backlash? Sounds like something to eat with fried eggs..8-)
           
    	Andy.

The Team is   

 Bonner, Irwin, Kernaghan, Moran, Phelan, Houghton, Keane, Townsend (C),
 Sheedy, Quinn, Aldridge.

A 1-1 draw will do fine.

�@

    Will TGA score tonight ?? That is the question....
    
    He ahs scored in his last two games for Ireland angainst poor quality
    opposition, tonight is his big chance to prove himself.
    I don't think he will and I can see Kelly coming on and scoring.
    
    I think 1-1 aswell.
    
    Colm.

    What time is the match at?
    
    Gerry

    kick off is at 7pm.
    
    

This is Irelands first big test and it will be very revealing to see how well 
they play tonight. It is a huge game for the Danish too and there will be 
immense pressure on them in front of their home fans to produce the goods 
against the Irish, and quickly too. 

If Ireland can get to HT on level terms I don't think that it is out of the
question to see Ireland sneak a winning goal in the second half. Fingers and 
toes crossed of course. What John Aldridge wouldn't give for goal tonight. I 
personally would give 3 turkish and 2 maltese goals for one danish goal 
tonight ;-)
  
                             James.

    Denmark 0 Ireland 0
    
    Good result against the European Champions in their own backyard,
    apparently Aldridge and Kelly missed good opportunities but overall the
    Irish battled well and deserved a point.  Big Jack was happy with the
    result.  If Ireland can draw the tough away ones in Seville and
    Belfast and beat the Lithuanians, N.Irish at home they won't be too far
    away at the end. 
    
    Match report anyone ???
    
    		Brian

    
    Denmark   0 - 0   Republic of Ireland     
    
    Looks like we got the result we came and now sit proudly on top of our
    table with only 1 point dropped out of our 3 games.  Looks like Big
    Jack has finally found another defender(young) of high calibar who when
    the time comes should be able to take over from Paul McGrath i.e. Kernaghan
    he played a brilliant game for only his second match and under such
    pressure it was a pity he picked up another yellow card for a silly
    foul and will now be suspended for the next match.  Surely man of the
    match must go to Terry Phelan who tirelessly ran from one end of the
    pitch to the other and at he end of his run is still able to make a
    good cross of the ball.  How does Kevin Moran do it, at 35 he played
    like a 19 yr old and his best piece of defending as far as i am
    concerned was when he harried Laudraup into the corner where he
    proceded to fumble the ball over the end line.  A return to form for
    Packy Bonner though not his busiest night kept a very importent vlean
    sheet which should do his confidence wonders he made some great arial
    catches and aftera near fumble of a shot on goal which he managed to
    get down on he never looked back after that.  I don't think that it was
    a forwards night with our best scoring chances falling to Andy Townsend
    the first where he intercepted a danish move out of defence and shot
    just wide, and the second where the ball was toe-poked back to him by
    TGA(i think) Andy hit it right footed and hoisted it over the bar but
    in faairness that shot fell to his bad foot and was bobbleing back to
    him so it was more of a shin shot.  A promising display considering that
    we were missing our best ever defender Paul McGrath and the ever
    brilliant Ronnie Whelan.  Heres to Ireland in the next World Cup.
    
    
    Colin.......

    Denmark            0    Republic of Ireland   0
    Northern Ireland   0    Spain                 0
    
    Two nil-all draws keep us on top of the group with Norn Iron, Spain and
    Lithuania all a point behind. While it is early days yet, we have
    started well, winning the two home games and drawing the away game. 
    
    The team played very well last night and the back four were
    outstanding. Kernaghan, Moran and Phelan were very impressive and Packy
    had his best game for some time. I missed the game against Latvia and I
    was pleased to see that we were playing the ball more. Whether this was
    due to the back-pass rule or the fact that it is earlier in the season,
    I don't know, but it was certainly an improvement. 
    
    Denmark are having problems coping with their European Championship
    victory. They looked very dangerous on the break and there were times
    when Laudrup put the heart crossways in me. They are not the same force
    they were in June, probably because there is more pressure on them now.
    They certainly aren't enjoying it as much.
    
    I didn't see much of the NI-Spain game, but Spain didn't look that
    impressive. Mind you, playing them in Sevilla is a different prospect.
    But if we have no injury worries then we should be able to do the biz
    there as well. NI could be the dark horses of this group --- while I
    don't honestly think they will qualify, they might not be too far off
    it.

    
                        P  W  D  L  F  A  PTS
    Ireland		3  2  1  0  6  0   5
    N. Ireland		3  1  2  0  5  2   4
    Spain		3  1  2  0  3  0   4
    Lithunia            4  1  2  1  4  4   4
    Denmark             3  0  3  0  0  0   3
    Latvia		4  0  2  2  1  6   2
    Albania             4  1  0  3  1  8   2
    
    
    Remaining fixtures for this year
    
    	Oct 28		Lithunia    v  Latvia
        Nov 11		Albania     v  Latvia
        Nov 18		Spain       v  Ireland
                        N. Ireland  v  Denmark
    	Dec 16          Spain       v  Latvia
    
    
    Stephen C.
    
    

    Lithuania will go a point ahead of R.O.I. if they beat neighbouring
    baltic team Latvia today.  A win would give them 6 points from 5 games.
    With home advantage Lithuaania should be expected to beat Latvia whom
    they already beat 2 - 1 in Riga last August this win is made more
    significant by the fact that Denmark and Spain were held to draws in
    Riga in there respectuve games against Latvia and thus Lithuania should
    be treated with more respect than they possibly are being treated with
    already many the dream has been destroyed by the fact that teams took
    too much for granted of their opposition....
    
    Colin....

    Blimey, ain't nothing like a full stop is there?
    
    8^)
    
    barry.
    
    

    
    Result :
    
    	Lithuania  1   Latvia  1
    
    Rep. of Ireland still on top because of a superior goal difference.
    
    Stephen C.
    

                        P  W  D  L  F  A  PTS
    Ireland		3  2  1  0  6  0   5
    Lithuania           5  1  3  1  5  5   5
    N. Ireland		3  1  2  0  5  2   4
    Spain		3  1  2  0  3  0   4
    Denmark             3  0  3  0  0  0   3
    Latvia		5  0  3  2  2  7   3
    Albania             4  1  0  3  1  8   2
    
 
Results in the group so far :

	Spain 	  3  Albania	0
	NI	  2  Lithuania  2
	Ireland   2  Albania	0
	Albania	  1  Lithuania	0
	Latvia	  1  Lithuania	2
	Latvia	  0  Denmark	0
	Ireland   4  Latvia	0
	NI	  3  Albania	0
	Latvia	  0  Spain	0
	Lith.	  0  Denmark	0
	NI	  0  Spain	0
	Denmark	  0  Ireland	0
	Lith.	  1  Latvia	1    
   

Result :

	Albania 1 - Latvia 1

Latvia creep above Denmark in the table.


Next week its a crucial tie for the Republic in Seville, while Northern Ireland 
play Denmark. 

There is some confusion about how the Sapnish authorities are handling the 
stadium arrangements. The Stadium in Seville can hold something like 60 or 70
thousand, and the crowd is very close to the pitch and apparently there's a great 
atmosphere there (if you're Spanish), which is thge reason the Spanish national 
team has played their internationals there for a few years now. However only 
30000 of the capacity is seating, and the Spaniards had hoped to get away with 
just putting cushions down on the terraces to comply with the "all-seater" rule.
FIFA were not too happy with this, but I don't know what the outcome has been. 
One thing is certain - the FAI's ticket allocation is 5000 and no higher (there's 
expected to be a huge Irish contingent in Seville for the game, a lot of these 
being emigrants working in mainland Europe).

Whatever about all that its sure to be a great game. I don't know too much about 
the current Spanish side, but they didn't too too well in the qualifying rounds
of the European championships. I remember they lost both home and away to France 
in that one. You can never write them off and I'd be more than happy with a draw.
With Barcelona being knocked out of the Euro cup last week, perhaps Spanish 
national pride has been hurt - and thats dangerous!!


Current Table::

                        P  W  D  L  F  A  PTS
    Ireland		3  2  1  0  6  0   5
    Lithuania           5  1  3  1  5  5   5
    N. Ireland		3  1  2  0  5  2   4
    Spain		3  1  2  0  3  0   4
    Latvia              6  0  4  2  3  8   4
    Denmark             3  0  3  0  0  0   3
    Albania             4  1  1  3  2  9   3
    
 
Results in the group so far :

	Spain 	  3  Albania	0
	NI	  2  Lithuania  2
	Ireland   2  Albania	0
	Albania	  1  Lithuania	0
	Latvia	  1  Lithuania	2
	Latvia	  0  Denmark	0
	Ireland   4  Latvia	0
	NI	  3  Albania	0
	Latvia	  0  Spain	0
	Lith.	  0  Denmark	0
	NI	  0  Spain	0
	Denmark	  0  Ireland	0
	Lith.	  1  Latvia	1    
	Albania   1  Latvia     1   

     A lot of players who won the gold medal at Barcelona are on the Spanish
side, and that was a very good team... Again a draw would be an excellent
result, but this will be a lot tougher than Denmark....

                                                         -dave-

    I honestly can see us winning this one.
    
    I don't often tempt fate but I cant see the SPanish breaking us down.
    
    I will be surprised if we only get a draw.
    
    Score ;
    
    Spain 	0 - 2	Ireland
    
    			McGrath, Townsend.
    

Re : -1

I wouuldn't be so confident. We had a very depleted team for the Denmark game and
deservedly came away with a draw - fair enough result, maybe we should have 
shaded it. But Denmark were quite poor in that game and they were a poor 
imitation constipated by success, of the team we saw in June.

The Spaniards are an unknown quantity, but I'd be surprised if they were that
bad.

It depends on how many of our team is back fit again, if we were full strength
then we've every chance of a victory.

 - Kevin

    
    Re last couple, you only play as well as you're allowed.  Denmark are
    still European champions.  We could have won the game and we could have
    lost it.  It was generally agreed that a draw was a fair result.  We
    could win in Spain but I don't think we will.  We'll go for a draw and
    I think, get it.  We could win but it's very difficultt o win a game
    when you set your sights on a draw.
    
    A draw would put us in a very commanding position and would leave Spain
    and Denmark looking at each other.
    
    Gary. 

    Butraganeo (sp) and Salinas are recalled to the spanish squad for the
    Irish game. This can only be bad cos the 2 of them are excellent
    players and very dangerous. I think we'll get a draw though which will
    be an excellent result.
    
    Colm
    

    I believe that Ireland are going to get stuffed at least 4-0 against
    Spain they have been riding their luck recently but its going to run
    out on Wed.
    
    Cc-�

  Cc... Ya might have blown your identity in that note.... With a name like
Walsh saying ya think we're gonna lose 4-0 leads me to think yer an Englishman!!

  Maybe its Mr Barefield using Colms account!!!!!!! (:-:)

                                                                 -dave-

HAs the team been announced yet?

I heard a "probable" line-up on the radio this morning of :

Bonner
Irwin,
Moran,
McGrath
Phelan
Staunton
Keane
Townsend
Houghton
Aldridge
Quinn

 - Kevin

    re .102
    
    that is the correct team, subs to be announced today.  Ireland to come
    away with another important draw.
    
    1-1 TGA to get the Irish goal.
    
    		Brian.

    Ireland lost there U21 match last night against Spain 2-1 with some guy
    McCarthy from Cork currently playing with Middlesboro(?) the guy who
    scored for Ireland..
    
    Colin..
    ^^^^^^^

��� McCarthy from Cork currently playing with Middlesboro(?) the guy who
��� scored for Ireland..
   
I think it's Brighton.

�@

    Did anyone hear Jack's pun last night at the news conference i think it
    went something like this
    
    "Ireland have the upper hand already Spain have to win whereas Ireland
    can win or draw that gives us two options to yere one"(not exactly word
    for word )  but it drew a laugh out of the reporters..
    
    Colin..
    ^^^^^^^

    
          Not a bad result for the boys in green though I thought that
          we should have winning the game when Spain were a man down.
          Aldo's offside near the end of time was clearly onside. Anyway
          that's the way the game goes. I won't say anything about 
          Quinn's miss.

          Gary.
        

    Good game from Ireland. Their defence (Moran, McGrath & Irwin) always
    looked in control & I thought Roy Keane was superb. Btw, who are
    'Armstrong Satellite'? We watched the game live here in Munich
    compliments of a big dish sitting on top of a van outside the pub !!
    At 10DM a head entrance (plus loadsa biers) the bloke made a killing
    (must have been about 200 Paddies there.....)
    
    	- Robin

    I suppose in the end it could be looked on as a point lost but all in
    all a point was all we were looking for in the first place.  Quinn
    missed what can only be described as a sitter and during his run up to
    his shot seemed to be trying to tell the goalie which way he was going
    to kick it.  The backs had another great game with the exception of the
    lose of concentration of Moran(?) in the last minute when a Spaniard
    slip in behind him only to send it over the bar.  Phelan seems to have
    made secure his place on the Irish team with another splendid game. 
    McGrath as per usual was outstanding and his first half clearance in
    front of goal was priceless cause if he had missed that it would have
    been left on a plate for the Spaniard behind him to score.  Keane
    showed everyone just why he is worth 3 million up. He seems to have
    matured as an Irish International in his last few appearances.  Quinn I
    think didn't one of his better games his timing all round seemed to be
    off.  TGA had another flawless game doing some great off the ball
    running.  His great dummy led to Quinns golden chance.  It doesn't seem
    to be hard to see why he doesn't score more often when he gets pulled
    down when he's clean through.  Bonner had a solid enough game with
    exception to a cross he mis-judged in the 2nd half.  Townsend seemed to
    have a quite enough game but could be seen getting in those all
    important tackles when necessary.  I thought BJ should have taken off
    Quinn and put on Kelly mid-way through the 2nd half a fresh pair of
    legs could have been useful.  Moran & McGrath picked up yellow cards.
    Well its another point in the bag and possibly 2 of the hardest games
    out of the way.  

    Colin..
    ^^^^^^^

    
    	This looks like a good result for you Irish boys. A couple of
    	home wins now will see you qualifying easily.
    
    	We'll see you in USA I hope!
    
    	Andy.

Good result, and we deserved better!

Aldridge and Keane were outstanding. Aldo had some lovely touches, putting
Quinn clean through in the first half, then himself in the second only to be 
pulled down. The Spaniard was rightly sent off. He then scored a perfectly 
legitimate goal only to have it ruled out for a non-existent offside. 
Hopefully these injustices will even themselves out over the campaign...

Keane was the only man on the pitch capable of making time and space for 
himself. He has a great career ahead of him. I reckon he'll be off to Italy 
before long...

The game was played at a frantic pace. Don't know if it would have been 
enjoyable for a neutral, but it was absorbing for the partisan...

It was Moran who cleared off the line in the second half. He (like Aldo) just 
gets better and better. It's incredible. The whole defense was great. I 
reckon Phelan has made the left back spot his own.

We still have to make the home games count. Also, Northern Ireland are more 
likely to make things difficult for us, than anybody else in the group.

We're not there yet, but we've done everything right so far.

Michael.

    Yes indeed I have to agree with the last few, agood performance but
    result could/should have been better. Kelly should definitely have been
    brought on for Quinn who had one of his worst games in green.
    Whereas TGA had one of his best, he deserved a goal, it's a pity yer
    man didn't foul to see where he would have stuck it.
    
    I agree the back four played well but Irwins use of the ball was poor.
    I fear he is turning like Staunton. When Staunton first started playing
    for Liverpool he could like a ball on anyones foot from 30 -- 40 yds
    just like Irwin for Utd.  When Steve then played for Ireland he got
    into the habit of hoofing it down the line just like Irwin. It looks
    like Irwin is afraid to play the ball across field in case he loses it.
    Afraid of Jack that is. Just MHO.
    
    As regards the Spanish, I'd say the Irish defenders were delighted to
    see Butragaeno (sp) going off espicially Moran. He was the only one
    that looked like causing problems when he was given a bit of space.
    I was baffled when he was brought off (but delighted).
    
    Keane is in a different class.
    
    Colm

    We rode our luck at times ( Moran cleared off the line in the first
    half )  but all in all played very well. I'm not going to comment on
    the rest of the game as it has been done adequately here already.
    
    Are there no NornIron noters here? I thought they were unfortunate
    against Denmark , and should have won by a couple of goals.
    
    I felt that Niall Quinn looked a dead man barely into the second half
    and should have been subbed. Aldridge's touches were superb, and he 
    was unlucky.
    
    *Tiger*

Phelan had an excellent game and Keane was pure class. Could have done with 
someone better than Staunton in midfield, and Quinn up front

    
    I don't suppose O'Brien and Kelly got a game? What's big Jack got
    against them? He watches them nearly every week for Newcastle - sees
    them playing out of their skins (consistently) and doesn't pick them.
    
    Tim

    
    			
                        P  W  D  L  F  A  PTS
    	Ireland         4  2  2  0  6  0   6
    	Spain		4  1  3  0  3  0   5
    	Denmark		4  1  3  0  1  0   5
    	Lithuania	5  1  3  1  5  5   5
    	N. Ireland	4  1  2  1  5  3   4
    	Latvia		5  0  3  2  2  7   3
    	Albania		4  1  0  3  1  8   2
    
    This is according to the Irish Times but did'nt  Albania draw with
    one of the Baltics last week
    
    Stephen C.
    

Just a thought,	

	I know people were annoyed about john's goal being disallowed last nite,
	but if you look at the slow motion pictures you can really see how 
	close it was. Now imagine what that was like in real time, the linesman 
	cant look at the ball being kicked and also look across the line!!, 
	if he can i'd like to know how!!!

	And also, we had a smilar (sp??) case at the other end with spain, 
	and if the linesman had been correct, we would have been in deep trouble.


	The real turning point was when quinn missed that chance. the irish 
	independent has a headline something like this:

	"Quinn says he was to blame for missing that chance"

	I ask you who else was to blame!!!


Mick

    
    What a quality quote.....At the end of the day for all there hoof and
    puff Ireland are lacking that bit of quality but then not every
    international side can have a player with the qualities of Paul
    Gascoigne.....
    
    Neil... 

    
    Re. -1
    
      Spain, are'nt they that team that beat England 1-0 not so
      long again. Somebody please remind me.
    
      Gary....

    Well I'd say give Roy Keane a while more and he will make some class
    player  .Whenever he got the ball last night he could hold
    the ball up or take on players and beat them and still be able to make
    a quality pass.  God your so right Ireland are lacking in quality and
    England are not and that's why in our last three meetings ye have
    beaten us every time right nice one but just concentrate on getting to
    the U.S.A. and when we meet we'll show you where you can put your
    quality.
    
    Cheers..
    
    Colin..
    ^^^^^^^

    re.120
    
    Neil, are you carrying the Fat Boys baby?

Last week : Albania     1  Latvia   1
Yesterday : Spain       0  Ireland  0
            N. Ireland  0  Denmark  1


                        P  W  D  L  F  A  PTS
    Ireland		4  2  2  0  6  0   6
    Spain               4  1  3  0  3  0   5
    Denmark             4  1  3  0  1  0   5
    Lithuania           5  1  3  1  5  5   5
    N. Ireland		4  1  2  1  5  3   4
    Latvia		6  0  4  2  3  8   4
    Albania             5  1  1  3  2  9   3
    
 
Results in the group so far :

	Spain 	  3  Albania	0
	NI	  2  Lithuania  2
	Ireland   2  Albania	0
	Albania	  1  Lithuania	0
	Latvia	  1  Lithuania	2
	Latvia	  0  Denmark	0
	Ireland   4  Latvia	0
	NI	  3  Albania	0
	Latvia	  0  Spain	0
	Lith.	  0  Denmark	0
	NI	  0  Spain	0
	Denmark	  0  Ireland	0
	Lith.	  1  Latvia	1    
        Albania   1  Latvia     1
        Spain     0  Ireland    0
        NI        0  Denmark    1
   

    
    Re:last few
    How can you utter Roy "am I the kid in the Munsters" Keane in the same
    breath as Gazza, anyway whats the point of Ireland having a midfield
    surly they would spend the whole game plane spoting, what a waste when
    they could fill there places with a couple of more defenders to hoof it
    up field... Come on face facts Ireland WILL NEVER have a player of 
    Gazza's capabillties we all know that Ireland have all the English 
    rejects and anyone with a little bit of talent will choose ENGLAND ...
    

    As you seem to have forgotten in our last three meets we have drawn
    twice and beaten ye once not bad for a team of rejects wouldn't you
    agree.  Well if the best of England can only draw with a team of
    rejects then that doesn't say much for England does it..

    Colin..
    ^^^^^^^

    P.S. Its very easy to say Roy Keane and Gazza in the same breath there
    I've done it again if you have trouble with it I could look up a good
    speech therapist for you..

    re .125
    
    Like Carlton Palmer & Tony Adams, for example

    
    Mmmmm, Even Abraham Lincoln would have problems with some of you
    noters !!
    
    The facts as I saw them were.....England played a very entertaining
    game of football compared to Ireland but as they say 2 to tango. Turkey
    did come out on the Wembley turf with a rather impressive string of
    results behind them and wanted to play football. This suited players
    such as Gascoigne, Platt and Wright. Even the two full-backs had plenty
    of playing space. On the other hand Ireland's game was a little
    different. Spain's recent run was not the best basis  for playing 
    attacking football whilst Ireland were realistically looking for a draw
    or even a sneak win. On reflection, Ireland should have won comfortably
    but its now high time Charlton injected a little urgency in their play.
    Signs of that were evident in that is was NOT always in the air from the
    Irish but they were dispossessed all too frequently and unnecessarily.
    
    As far as the notes on world class players and Gascoigne, well I don't
    think there is anybody playing at the moment that is totally dominant.
    The nearest I can think of are Van Basten, Weah, Kostadinov and
    possibly Romario; Gascoigne and Bergkamp are still learning their
    trade but all are having their off days. In fact the player who seems
    to be the most consistently good though not totally world dominant is
    McCoist. 
    
    	It seems that fotball in general is in a transitional phase
    with even the Germans struggling against a weak Austrian team. Look at
    the amount of 'new' international managers at the moment and perhaps
    this reveals something; Paul van Himst seems to have bit between his
    teeth though.
    
    Just a little gripe though, whoever said that Ireland will never have a
    world class player has obviously never read a football BOOK in last 10
    years; from that 'island' has come some world class players, Best, Giles
    and Brady to mention a few. Gascoigne will hopefully some day be world
    class as Bergkamp surely will.........
    
    Remember...Turkey on its own doesn't exactly constitute the Christmas
    dinner!!!! 
    
    
    	Dezzz.

    
    REPLY 130 .128
                     Don't forget about Steve Heighway and Ronnie Whelan
    Pat
    

    re:note.125
    
     most of your so called english rejects would walk on to the 
     english team. as for filling midfield with more defenders !.
    
    	WHAT IS GRAHAM TAYLOR PLAYING AROUND GAZZA ?.
       	 

    Yesterday's result:	
    
    	Spain   5 - 0  Latvia
    
    
    Spain leading the group.
    
    Eduard

    
    Good win for Spain - 5-0.  This boosts their goal difference and leaves
    them 1 point clear at the top.  They have the opportunity to go 3
    points clear in February when they entertain Lithuania.
    
    Spain 5 2 3 0 8 0 7
    Irl   4 2 2 0 6 0 6
    Den   4 1 3 0 1 0 5
    
    Next games
    
    Feb 17th Albania v NI
    Feb 24th Spain v Lithuania
    Mar 30th Irl v NI
    Mar 30th Den v Spain
    
    Gary.

    Anybody know who scored for Spain ???
    
    I know that Butragaeno was dropped... who else was there....
    
    Colm.

    
    Spain's scorers were
    
    Bakero, Guaddiola, Perez and Berguiristain 2.  All came in the second
    half with the last 3 coming in the last 10 minutes.  Spain made 7
    changes from the Irish game.
    
    This was a great result for the Spanish but I still feel we're in pole
    position and look the best bet to win the group even if Spain go 3
    points clear in February.
    
    Gary.

    IRELANDS TEAM TO PLAY WALES TOMORROW IS AS FOLLOWS
    
    
    
    				BONNER
    
    	MORRIS		O'LEARY		CAREY		MC GOLDRICK
    
    	BYRNE		KEANE		O'BRIEN		MCGLOUGHLIN
    
    			CASCARINO	KELLY
    
    
    

    
    > MCGLOUGHLIN
    
    Is this the Ginger Mcgloughlin who used play for our rugby team when we
    actually used to won a few games ??

    
    It's Alan McLoughlin who plays for Portsmouth as has already played in
    the World Cup.
    
    Looks like our B team.
    
    Gary.

    
    
    				BONNER
    
    	MORRIS		O'LEARY		CAREY		MC GOLDRICK
    
    	BYRNE		KEANE		O'BRIEN		MCGLOUGHLIN
    
    			CASCARINO	KELLY


        A very experimental side with only two regulars in Bonner & Keane.
Cas hasn't played first team football in months and capping a player who
can't even make the Man Utd. side isn't a very bright idea. 

 Also why do we always choose to play Wales in friendlies??

       Martin     
    
    

Cunno,

Perhaps is something to do with them being the only ones you can beat..!!!

Tony

I'm not sure if bonner is getting first team practice with celtic, but I
would have liked kelly of sheffield Utd to get his first cap. He seems 
promising enough and we all know that we need someone to replace bonner.

    re .139
    
    Correct me if I'm wrong, but I reckon Wales are the only team from the
    so called 'british' isles that have beaten Ireland since big Jack took
    over and the only team in the world to have beaten us twice. No offence
    but a game against Wales isnt exaclty a big deal. The last game, in the
    RDS, was about as exciting as watching paint dry. It'll be a lot more
    fun watching England get the run around from San Marino only to win by
    a poxy goal in the last minute.

    Re .139,
    
    I will assume that the author of .139 is 'English' and hence forgot
    about Wales's crushing defeat of Eire last year that brought to an end
    a non-losing streak of approximately 19 games or so for them.
    
    Unless it's a tongue in cheek comment in which case it should be surrounded
    by 'smiley faces' can we keep this 'nationalism' out of the notesfile
    please.
    
    It's also a little rich if it comes from a country that chooses
    to tour Australia and New Zealand - such mighty World Football powers.
    
    Until England pluck up the courage to play Wales again we'll just
    remember the 4-1 victory (:==:) (:==:) <--- see smiley faces
    
    Regards,
    
    Andrew.D.Wicks
                                                                   

    
    The main reason we play Wales is that they're cheap.  The F.A.I. know
    that they can fill the ground without paying the guarantees that
    countries like France and Germany demand.  Tonight's game is sold out
    despite being live on TV.  Then they announce that it's only an Ireland
    B side.
    
    Despite playing what is virtually a B side I still think we can win the
    game.  These fringe players will be playing for places.  I hope both
    Andy Turner and Alan Kelly get a run at some stage.  The result doesn't
    really matter.
    
    I'm off to Dublin in a couple of hours.  Full report tomorrow.
    
    Gary.
    
    PS A little bit of useless info.  Wales are the only country to have
    won a International at 4 different venues in Dublin - Dalymount
    60,Tolka 81,Lansdowne 86 and RDS 92.  Ireland have only won at 2 -
    Dalyer and Lansdowne.

Played today :

Albania 1  N.Ireland 2

Northern Ireland got off to a great start with a goal after 14 mins from McGilton
(sp?). Alan McDonald then put then 2 up after 38 mins, and thats how the first 
half ended.  Albania got a penalty for a handball by McGilton, which was taken by
Damalari and saved. In the closing seconds Rakli (sp?) got one back for the 
Albanians.

Group table now looks like this :

                        P  W  D  L  F  A  PTS
    Spain		5  2  3  0  8  0   7
    Ireland		4  2  2  0  6  0   6
    N. Ireland		5  2  2  1  7  4   5
    Denmark             4  1  3  0  1  0   5
    Lithuania           5  1  3  1  5  5   5
    Latvia		7  0  4  3  3 13   4
    Albania             6  1  1  4  3 11   3
    
 
Results in the group so far :

	Spain 	  3  Albania	0
	NI	  2  Lithuania  2
	Ireland   2  Albania	0
	Albania	  1  Lithuania	0
	Latvia	  1  Lithuania	2
	Latvia	  0  Denmark	0
	Ireland   4  Latvia	0
	NI	  3  Albania	0
	Latvia	  0  Spain	0
	Lith.	  0  Denmark	0
	NI	  0  Spain	0
	Denmark	  0  Ireland	0
	Lith.	  1  Latvia	1    
        Albania   1  Latvia     1
        Spain     0  Ireland    0
        NI        0  Denmark    1
	Spain	  5  Latvia	0
	Albania	  1  NI		2   

		Ireland 2 Wales 1

Ireland snatched defeat from the jaws of victory with a 2-1 win over Wales
on Wednesday night.  Ireland fielded a reserve side while Wales were short
a few regulars.

Wales dominated the early exchanges and took the lead after 10 minutes.  Packie
Bonner failed to hold a shot and Mark Hughes scored from the rebound.  The
makeshift defence had been upset by the departure of David O'Leary with a head 
injury.  Roy Keane switched to centre back beside Brian Carey.  Ronnie Whelan
came on for O'Leary and showed that he still has much of his class if not his
fitness.  He lasted until half-time.  John Byrne and Tony Cascarino had
chances in the first half but Wales deserved their interval lead.

Wales made the fateful mistake of replacing Eric Young with his Crystal Palace 
team-mate Chris Coleman.  Young had comfortably contained Cascarino and
had exorcised the memory of the night in Wrexham 2 years ago when Niall Quinn
embarrassed him.  The Welsh defence looked very vulnerable in the second
half.  Alan McLoughlin ran at the defence after 47 minutes and was hauled
down by Coleman.  David Kelly smashed the penalty against the bar.  This 
compunded a wretched night for the Newcastle player and he was later replaced
by Tommy Coyne.  Ireland looked more and more thretening as the game wore
on but most of the fans sensed it was not going to be our night.  The Welsh
fans continued to outsing a strangely muted home crowd.

With 15 minutes remaining the breakthrough finally came, John Byrne shot was
saved by Neville Southall but substitute Kevin Sheedy dispatched the rebound 
to the empty net.  Suddenly there was a new purpose about Ireland.  4 minutes
later Liam O'Brien tried a free kick from 30 yards.  His superb strike was
brilliantly saved by Southall but the ever alert Tommy Coyne was first to
the rebound.  Slaven and Sheedy could ahve added another couple in the last
10 minutes.  Neville Sothall was substitued with a few minutes left and he
left the field to a huge ovation from the Irish fans.  He proved yet again why 
he is rated one of the top keepers in the world.

It was a good win for Ireland although it was a pointless exercise.  Roy
Keane added to his growing reputation.  The other regular Packie Bonner
disappointed but he was playing in front of a makeshift defence.  Chris Morris
and Eddie McGoldrick both looked ill at ease.  Brian Carey looked clumsy at
centre back and has a lot to learn.  John Byrne was the best of the midfield 
players.  liam O'Brien is a lovely footballer but he drifts in and out of 
games.  Cascarino did OK but Kelly was poor.  Tommy Coyne again looked sharp 
and the Celtic striker will probably be ont he bench against Northern Ireland.


		Albania 1 Northern Ireland 2

Northern Ireland kept their slim hopes of qualifying alive with a hard fought
victory in Tirana.  Jim Magilton scored after 14 minutes and alan McDonald
made it 2-0 after 38 minutes.  Albania came much more into the game in the
second half.  Demulari missed a penalty and Tommy Wright kept the Albanians
at bay.  Rakli finally scored a consolation goal seconds from the end.  This
was a good win for Northern Ireland but they need to pick up points in
Dublin and Seville to have any chance of qualifying.

Spain  5   Lithuania  0

Spain got 3 early goals and 2 late goals from 5 different scorers, thats all I 
remember from a quick look at the paper this morning.

Thats an impressive victory.


                        P  W  D  L  F  A  PTS
    Spain		6  3  3  0 13  0   9
    Ireland		4  2  2  0  6  0   6
    N. Ireland		5  2  2  1  7  4   5
    Denmark             4  1  3  0  1  0   5
    Lithuania           6  1  3  2  5 10   5
    Latvia		7  0  4  3  3 13   4
    Albania             6  1  1  4  3 11   3
    
 
Results in the group so far :

	Spain 	  3  Albania	0
	NI	  2  Lithuania  2
	Ireland   2  Albania	0
	Albania	  1  Lithuania	0
	Latvia	  1  Lithuania	2
	Latvia	  0  Denmark	0
	Ireland   4  Latvia	0
	NI	  3  Albania	0
	Latvia	  0  Spain	0
	Lith.	  0  Denmark	0
	NI	  0  Spain	0
	Denmark	  0  Ireland	0
	Lith.	  1  Latvia	1    
        Albania   1  Latvia     1
        Spain     0  Ireland    0
        NI        0  Denmark    1
	Spain	  5  Latvia	0
	Albania	  1  NI		2   
	Spain	  5  Lithuania  0

31/3/93		ROI v NI
		Denmark v Spain
14/4/93		Lithuania v Albania
		Denmark v Latvia
28/4/93		ROI v Denmark
		Spain v NI
15/5/93		Latvia v Albania
25/5/93		Lithuania v NI
26/5/93		Albania v ROI
2/6/93		Lithuania v Spain
		Latvia v NI
		Denmark v Albania
9/6/93		Latvia v ROI
16/6/93		Lithuania v ROI
25/8/93		Denmark v Lithuania		
8/9/93		Albania v Denmark
		ROI v Lithuania
		NI v Latvia
22/9/93		Albania v Spain
13/10/93	ROI v Spain
		Denmark v NI
17/11/93	Spain v Denmark
		NI v ROI

    
    Given the current standings what are the bookies offering as odds
    for qualifying?
    
    Also I've heard that if Ireland qualifys that the World Cup organizers
    will try and locate them in Boston or another location with a sizeable
    Irish population to ensure good attendances.  It was my impression
    that only the top seeded team in each group was assigned to a location
    and the rest were assigned by the luck of the draw.  Which is correct?
    
    It doesn't seem to matter much from an attendance point of view as the
    tickets allocated for local US sale have sold very well according to the 
    Boston Globe.
    
    Rick     
    
    
    

    Rick,
    
    Ireland definitely won't qualify as Top Seeds. U.S and Germany are
    already seeded and after that it all falls out on past World Cup record
    so you'll see Brazil and Argentina & Italy and some other European team
    kept apart.
    
    However there is also the rather devious second seed in each group
    algorithm which is also used to keep say South American teams apart
    and other big European teams apart i.e Spain and Holland - this was
    used in the last world cup and at one stage I remember confused
    everyone so much that the draw had to be redone. My memory tells me
    it might even have been Scotland who were redrawn in a different group.
    
    So come December 17th in Las Vegas you'll definitely see the organisers
    adjusting the draw to suit themselves and I personally have no doubt
    whatsoever that should Ireland qualify they will be in Boston.
    
    regards,
    
    Andrew.D.Wicks

When is the team for Wednesday's game against the North going to be named?

Here's a possible line up...

Bonner
Irwin
Phelan
McGrath
Moran
Houghton
Keane
Townsend
Whelan
Quinn
Kelly

And are these guys all fit and in the squad ? Who else is in the squad
O'Leary 
Morris
Staunton
McGoldrick
Sheehy
Sheridan
Coyne

Not having Aldridge available seriously reduces our chances of scoring, leaving
a 0-0 on the cards (or perish the thought - defeat?!). 

Whether Kelly of Tommy Coyne gets the second spot up front is a difficult one
for Jack, and he may even go for a 5 man midfield which worked so well in the
3-1 victory in Turkey, but I dont think that this is that type of game. 

RRRRRrrrronnie Whelan maybe wont play, letting in probably Steve Staunton.

Our main problem on Wednesday will be trying to snatch a goal, as our defense 
should be easily capable of staying firm.

Can they do it? ............. Yes, but just about I'd say.

    
    David Kelly's in good scoring form, having recently scored in 5
    consecutive games for Newcastle (ending last week at Swindon). I think
    he's worth a game up front.
    
    Tim

�� Not having Aldridge available seriously reduces our chances of scoring,

You must be joking, Remember Aldo only scores against 4rd rate counties.

I don't think you could class N.Ireland as that.


�@

    
    
    I think Staunton will play instead of Whelan and I wouldn't care to
    call the Coyne v Kelly decision.  There might even be the 5 man
    midfield but one striker at home in a game we *MUST* win.....
    
    It's going to be very very difficult.  On paper we should win but that
    counts for nothing.  It won't be a classic.  I predict 1-0 or 0-0 and
    I'm leaning towards a scoreless draw at the moment.  I hope I'm wrong.
    
    Gary.

    
    Is Andy Turner in the squad, or is he playing for the under 21's.
    
    Dave...

--�� Not having Aldridge available seriously reduces our chances of scoring,

--You must be joking, Remember Aldo only scores against 4rd rate counties.

--I don't think you could class N.Ireland as that.


--�@


I don't agree with you there Brian. Aldridge may not score too often against the
more substantial oponents, but then, neither do Ireland. And when he's not 
scoring he's usually running about on or off the ball - he's a hard worker and
helps the team a lot.


RTE's Des Cahill said there was "increased speculation" that Tommy Coyne would be 
playing tomorrow. In any event, we'll know this lunchtime when the team is to be 
announced.

    A goal in each half should see us through.. Iam not a fan of Steve Staunton,
I have seen him play twice in the green shirt, and all he done was boot the ball
into empty space, more of a rugby player. A lot depends on how Roy Keane plays
I fancy him to score one of the goals tomorrow.

   What time does the game start at?????  Have ye changed to summertime over
there???? and can someone keep us up to date with the match tomorrow......

                                                           thanks.....

                                                               -dave-

>>   What time does the game start at?????  Have ye changed to summertime over
>>there???? and can someone keep us up to date with the match tomorrow......


Kicks off at either 1.00 or 1.30...not sure which. And yes summertime is here 
again in sunny Galway..couldn't find my ray-bans this morning though!

Kick-Off is 1.45pm, and as I'll be there I won't be able to keep the score
up to date. The game is live on ITV. If we get an early goal we will win
easy.


�@ 

    Team.......
    
    			Bonner,
    			Irwin
    			Phelan
    			McGrath
    			Moran
    			Staunton
    			Townsend
    			Houghton
    			Keane
    			Quinn
    			Coyne.
    
    Just got it on Radio 1 at lunchtime. I'll be in the local for both the
    Irish game and the Turkey versus England game. God, I love
    Wednesdays...
    
    *Tiger*

    eire 2 0 NI
    
    quinn
    townsend

    
    FINAL SCORE:
    
    REPUBLIC of IRELAND 3	NORTHERN IRELAND 0
    

		Rep. Ireland   (3) 3     N.Ireland   (0) 0
	

Marvellous first half from the Republic, albeit well assisted by a very inept
and unorganised effort from the North. Twenty minutes of pressure ended in a 
very nice goal from Andy Townsed. Irwin looped a ball to Townsend in the box, 
Quinn played a neat ball back to Townsend who stroked it in with his left
foot. About 90 seconds later, Houghton played a great cross in to the feet
of Niall Quinn who scored with a very skilful touch, very similar to his 
goal at Wembley vs. England. 8 minutes later it was all over when Staunton 
scored directly from a corner kick - very very very poor defending. 

It looked like turning into a rout for a while sustained pressure until half 
time. Ireland cantered in for the last 45 mins...extremely boring 2nd half. Ray 
Houghton had a great game, getting the journalist's MOTM award. Phelan also 
played a great game. Cascarino came on for Coyne and McGoldrick for Quinn in the
second half.

The one minutes silence before the match, for all killed as a result of violence
over the last 25 years was observed by all.

                        P  W  D  L  F  A  PTS
    Spain		6  3  3  0 13  0   9
    Ireland		5  3  2  0  9  0   8
    N. Ireland		6  2  2  2  7  7   6
    Denmark             4  1  3  0  1  0   5
    Lithuania           6  1  3  2  5 10   5
    Latvia		7  0  4  3  3 13   4
    Albania             6  1  1  4  3 11   3
    
 
Results in the group so far :

	Spain 	  3  Albania	0
	NI	  2  Lithuania  2
	Ireland   2  Albania	0
	Albania	  1  Lithuania	0
	Latvia	  1  Lithuania	2
	Latvia	  0  Denmark	0
	Ireland   4  Latvia	0
	NI	  3  Albania	0
	Latvia	  0  Spain	0
	Lith.	  0  Denmark	0
	NI	  0  Spain	0
	Denmark	  0  Ireland	0
	Lith.	  1  Latvia	1    
        Albania   1  Latvia     1
        Spain     0  Ireland    0
        NI        0  Denmark    1
	Spain	  5  Latvia	0
	Albania	  1  NI		2   
	Spain	  5  Lithuania  0
	Ireland   3  NI	        0

31/3/93		Denmark v Spain
14/4/93		Lithuania v Albania
		Denmark v Latvia
28/4/93		ROI v Denmark
		Spain v NI
15/5/93		Latvia v Albania
25/5/93		Lithuania v NI
26/5/93		Albania v ROI
2/6/93		Lithuania v Spain
		Latvia v NI
		Denmark v Albania
9/6/93		Latvia v ROI
16/6/93		Lithuania v ROI
25/8/93		Denmark v Lithuania		
8/9/93		Albania v Denmark
		ROI v Lithuania
		NI v Latvia
22/9/93		Albania v Spain
13/10/93	ROI v Spain
		Denmark v NI
17/11/93	Spain v Denmark
		NI v ROI

	Republic of Ireland 3 Northern Ireland 0


The Republic of Ireland crushed Northern Ireland at Lansdowne Road yesterday.  
3 goals in 9 minutes during the first half were enough to earn 2 very valuable
world cup points.  The republic's first half performance was one of the best
I've ever seen.  Northern Ireland were just swept aside.

The Northern Ireland goal was under siege during the opening 20 minutes.  Andy
Townsend shot inches wide after running at the defence.  Tommy Coyne was
twice foiled by brave goalkeeping from Tommy Wright.  The breakthrough finally
came on 20 minutes.  A move involving Denis Irwin, Ray Houghton and Niall Quinn
was well finished by Andy Townsend.  Lansdowne Road erupted into a sea of 
green, white and orange.  The cheers had barely subsided when Ray Houghton got
free on the right.  His cross was expertly finished by a very confident Niall
Quinn.  The republic were now rampant and the only surprise was that it took a 
further 8 minutes before Stephen Staunton got the 3rd, direct from a corner.  
Niall Quinn could have had a first half hatrick but we had to settle for
three.  Chants of "Easy Easy" and "There's only one team in Ireland" piled
on the humiliation.

The second half was a different story.  The republic dropped the pace.  Jimmy
Quinn and Kingsley Black came on and made a difference.  With space and time 
to play Northern Ireland looked a different side and they could have sneaked a
consolation goal.  The republic almost scored a couple too but the urgency was
gone.  In the closing stages Roy Keane brought another great save out of Wright
and Paul McGrath shot wide of a gaping goal.  The second half was poor and the
final whistle was welcomed by both sides.  

Teams
ROI Bonner,Irwin,Phelan,Moran,McGrath,Houghton,Keane,Townsend,Staunton,
Quinn,Coyne subs Cascarino for Coyne and McGoldrick for Quinn.
NI  Wright,Donaghy,Worthington,Taggart,McDonald,Morrow,O'Neill,Hughes,Magilton,
Dowie,Grey  subs Quinn for Mailton, Black for Morrow.


	Denmark 1 Spain 0 

Denamrk defeated Spain with a 21st minute goal from Fleming Poulvsen.  Spain
should have got a point as Aldana missed 2 good chances.


These results mean that only 3 countries are now in contention.  The game 
between Denamrk and the Republic in 4 weeks time is now crucial.  We are in the
strongest position but things can change very easily.


Spain  6 3 3 1 13 1 9
ROI    5 3 2 0  9 0 8
Den    5 2 3 0  2 0 7

Next  28/4

ROI v Denamrk,Spain v NI.

Spain  6 3 3 1 13 1 9
ROI    5 3 2 0  9 0 8
Den    5 2 3 0  2 0 7


     What a great performance from our boys yesterday, all the better when you
consider that we were without the two stars, Ronnie & Aldo. I thought Steve
Staunton was the best player on the field. He seemed to cover every blade of
grass. Coyne didn't look very good and the quicker that Aldo gets back the
better.

I went to Dublin yesterday without a ticket. At 1.30, I went to the ground 
and just outside the barriers I asked a tout what he wanted for the stand 
ticket. He said 50 pounds so I told him to p%^s off. A genuine supporter who
was there at the time offered me one of his tickets for face value. He was
supposed to meet his friend there but he didn't show and so I had the 25
pound ticket for face value. The Gods were smiling on me. A great atmosphere
during the 1st half but it tended to die in the 2nd as the game was over as a
contest.



     Cunno.

    
    Ehhhh, Spain have played 7 games....so have dropped 5 points against
    opposition, as Denmark 3 and ROI only 2 points.
    
    Well I'm sorry to say that the standard of football exhibiting itself
    all over the telivision was to say the least poor. In fact the most
    open game was probably Switzerland v Portugal where the standard was
    at least high. I suppose I'm doing the lads in green a disfavour here
    as I only saw the second half but the standard from both teams was 
    diabolical as with the rubbish was from Izmir 15 minutes later.
    
    Here's hoping we get a good one at the end of the month....
    
    Dezzz. 

I thought Giles and Dunphy did us proud yuesterday too with their incisive,
clear comments about yesterdays game. Calling a spade a spade is what I
like to see unlike the two oafs on the other channel gushing praise on a 
lacklustre England performance. Who am I talking about? Chin and Hair! They 
were boring and full of footballing cliches.

Look like another victory for our boys in the pundits championship ;-).

    
    	Ahhhh Eamon Dunphy, always so well respected and liked in Ireland!
    I can still recall the praise you guys heaped on him during the last
    world cup when he also called a spade a Big Jack... ;-)
    
    	

Denmark beat Latvia 2-0 yesterday, hitting the woodwork 4 times in the process
i believe, while Lithuania beat Albania 3-1. 


                        P  W  D  L  F  A  PTS
    Spain		7  3  3  1 13  1   9
    Denmark             6  3  3  0  4  0   9
    Ireland		5  3  2  0  9  0   8
    Lithuania           7  2  3  2  8 11   7
    N. Ireland		6  2  2  2  7  7   6
    Latvia		8  0  4  4  3 15   4
    Albania             7  1  1  5  4 14   3
    
 
Results in the group so far :

	Spain 	  3  Albania	0
	NI	  2  Lithuania  2
	Ireland   2  Albania	0
	Albania	  1  Lithuania	0
	Latvia	  1  Lithuania	2
	Latvia	  0  Denmark	0
	Ireland   4  Latvia	0
	NI	  3  Albania	0
	Latvia	  0  Spain	0
	Lith.	  0  Denmark	0
	NI	  0  Spain	0
	Denmark	  0  Ireland	0
	Lith.	  1  Latvia	1    
        Albania   1  Latvia     1
        Spain     0  Ireland    0
        NI        0  Denmark    1
	Spain	  5  Latvia	0
	Albania	  1  NI		2   
	Spain	  5  Lithuania  0
	Ireland   3  NI	        0
	Denmark	  1  Spain      0
	Lithuania 3  Albania    1
        Denmark   2  Latvia     0

28/4/93		ROI v Denmark
		Spain v NI
15/5/93		Latvia v Albania
25/5/93		Lithuania v NI
26/5/93		Albania v ROI
2/6/93		Lithuania v Spain
		Latvia v NI
		Denmark v Albania
9/6/93		Latvia v ROI
16/6/93		Lithuania v ROI
25/8/93		Denmark v Lithuania		
8/9/93		Albania v Denmark
		ROI v Lithuania
		NI v Latvia
22/9/93		Albania v Spain
13/10/93	ROI v Spain
		Denmark v NI
17/11/93	Spain v Denmark
		NI v ROI

Terry Phelan pulled a hamstring last night and is OUT for next Wednesday's
match against Denmark. He'll be missed. The formation of the team has been 
settled for the last few matches. That'll be disrupted now.

In case anyone missed CSKA's great performance on Wednesday night, ITV announced
exclusive coverage of Wednesday's game Vs Denmark.  Jack Charlton was the guest
for the night and appeared cautious about this game when interviewed following
the Rangers match. 

Here's one person who is taking a half-day on Wednesday!  
Anyone else interested?

Regards,
Shane

>>Anyone else interested?
    
    No:-

Thanks Simon, we'll really miss your incisive intelligent input.

Is there any team news?  Is Whelan in the running to replace Phelan with
Staunton reverting to left full?  Is TGA fit?

Shane

>>Is there any team news?  Is Whelan in the running to replace Phelan with
>>Staunton reverting to left full?  Is TGA fit?

Thats one option. The other is to bring back Morris in at right back, moving 
Irwin over to left, leaving the midfield settled.

guess its up to jack

Chris Morris..........please.........no.....Middlesboro's defensive record...
in and out of their team...crosses balooned into the crowd...Brian Ladrup.......
.aaaaaaaaaaagh!

Is Ronnie now wearing Dave O'leary's shoes?  What about TGA?

I agree with you about not wanting Morris in the team, but thats the rumour.

TGA is fit-ish..played 30 minutes for Tranny on Saturday. I think Des Cahill was 
saying on the radio this morning that he reckons Coyne will start instead of 
Aldridge anyway. Still speculation.

So when will the team be officially named?

These Danes are a good side, and improving after their anti-climax last Autumn, 
so they are going to be dangerous. The more I think of it, please leave Morris 
out!! Denamrk are a good defensive side and dangerous on the break. I imagine 
they will be happy to sit back, soaking up pressure, waiting for their chance 
to break and sneak a 1-0 win. Ireland won't be fooled to easily, hoping to apply 
the pressure, be solid at the back, and eventually break through for a goal.



P.S. 

Did anyone see Sky's tabloid preview of England v Holland. Complete with "lets 
to stir up somw sh** on the Waddle scene", playing John Waite's "I'm not missing
You at all" as they showed scenes of Waddle's skill.  We also get a 'computer' 
prediction on the game, which England won in the 68th minute with a goal from 
Platt, Ince getting MOTM, and England and Poland qualifying from the group!!

    Just heard it on the radio.  The usual lineup with Eddie McGoldrick at
    right back and TGA up front.
    
    There is a doubt about Kevin Morans fitness and if he can't play then
    Alan Kernighan  will play.
    
    
    Eddie.

    
    
    McGoldrick at right back is a gamble.  Still Irwin has played all left
    back all season for Manchester United and he'll mark Laudrup.
    
    I'm glad to see TGA up front.  No smart comments but he's our best
    chance of scoring.
    
    The Danes have named a very defensive squad and they'll be looking for
    a point.  It'll be very close but I think we can shade it.  a draw
    would not be a bad result but a win would really set us up.
    
    Gary.

        <<< Note 130.180 by GALVIA::SPAIN "There's always the U.S." >>>
                           -< Phew no Chris Morris >-
    
    >> I'm glad to see TGA up front.  No smart comments but he's our best
    >> chance of scoring.
  
    Gary,
    
    Quick ! Cunno has got access to your account.....
    
    Rob

    Just heard on the radio that Moran is almost definitely out with
    a hamstring he picked up in training this morning.  Kernaghan will take
    his place. Subs to be named tomorrow.
    
    This is the start of the real test.
    
    *Tiger$_wont_be_at_work_tomorrow_at_all_so_enjoy_the_game.

    I heard Jimmy Nolan was coming in at right full.
    
    P.

	 1) Bonnar
	 2) McGoldrick
	 3) Irwin
	 4) Kernighan
	 5) Mcgrath
	 6) Keane
	 7) Townsend
	 8) Houghton
	 9) Quinn
	10) Aldridge
	11) Staunton


Mick
	Gary are you heading up on the train???

           <<< TRUCKS::DISK$USER72:[NOTES$LIBRARY]FOOTBALL.NOTE;1 >>>
                                 -< FOOTBALL >-
================================================================================
Note 130.183              World Cup qualifying Group 3                183 of 184
ESSB::BREE                                            3 lines  27-APR-1993 14:12
                                -< replacement >-
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    I heard Jimmy Nolan was coming in at right full.
    
    P.


Jimmy Nolan??? Is he one of "The Nolan Sisters"?

Paul...are you sure it isn't Tony Dunne although he may have lost some pace in
the last 26 years...still he has that elusive league medal!

Don't forget that Jimmy Nolan can also play in goal if stuck and may be just
the man to kick Brian Ladrup.

Shane
p.s. not a bad team...

It's Landsowne for me tomorrow, and it will be tough. I'm going for a repeat
of the first game between the sides. 

�@

    Latest 
    
    Ireland    0  -  1    Denmark
    
    
    
    
    Gary...

     
    
    What are the Irish doing?  looking for spuds to dig up..
    
    

    HALF TIME
    
    
    Ireland     0  -  1     Denmark    :-)
    
    
    
    
    Gary

    75 mins
    
    Ireland     0  -  1     Denmark     
    
    
    
    Gary...

    Ireland     1  -  1     Denmark
    Quinn
    
    
    
    
    
    Gary...

    
    Was that the final score ?
    
    Paul

    
    Yes.

Well, it was a 1-1 draw, and there really isn't much to say about it. Denmark
had the better of the first 5 minutes, but then the Irish got some composure, 
and began to play, abd started creating chances. Against the run of play, the 
Danes got a brilliantly taken opportunists goal. McGrath decided to head a ball 
out rather than leave it to Bonner, who was running in behind him to make a safe
catch. Either Packie didn't shout or McGrath didn't hear it, but it came to some 
Dane whose name escapes me, who then lobbed it into the net beyond a scrambling 
Bonner.

After the goal, Ireland really didn't look like scoring against an extremely
well organised Danish defense. They had the ball, but couldn't break through. 
Finally Quinn glanced a header beyond Schmeichel from a Staunton cross.

Steve Staunton is the most improved player in the team. One year ago, he was
dreadful, yesterday, he had class. Kernaghan played well and was voted man of
the match.

To sum up, it was quite scrappy, and most of us Irish were relieved in the end
to get the draw.

Results from 28-4-93 :

	Ireland		1  Denamrk	1
	Spain		3  N. Ireland	1


                        P  W  D  L  F  A  PTS
    Spain		8  4  3  1 16  2   11
    Denmark             7  3  4  0  5  1   10
    Ireland		6  3  3  0 10  1    9
    Lithuania           7  2  3  2  8 11    7
    N. Ireland		7  2  2  3  8 10    6
    Latvia		8  0  4  4  3 15    4
    Albania             7  1  1  5  4 14    3
    
 
Results in the group so far :

	Spain 	  3  Albania	0
	NI	  2  Lithuania  2
	Ireland   2  Albania	0
	Albania	  1  Lithuania	0
	Latvia	  1  Lithuania	2
	Latvia	  0  Denmark	0
	Ireland   4  Latvia	0
	NI	  3  Albania	0
	Latvia	  0  Spain	0
	Lith.	  0  Denmark	0
	NI	  0  Spain	0
	Denmark	  0  Ireland	0
	Lith.	  1  Latvia	1    
        Albania   1  Latvia     1
        Spain     0  Ireland    0
        NI        0  Denmark    1
	Spain	  5  Latvia	0
	Albania	  1  NI		2   
	Spain	  5  Lithuania  0
	Ireland   3  NI	        0
	Denmark	  1  Spain      0
	Lithuania 3  Albania    1
        Denmark   2  Latvia     0
	Ireland   1  Denmark    1
	Spain     3  NI         1

15/5/93		Latvia v Albania
25/5/93		Lithuania v NI
26/5/93		Albania v ROI
2/6/93		Lithuania v Spain
		Latvia v NI
		Denmark v Albania
9/6/93		Latvia v ROI
16/6/93		Lithuania v ROI
25/8/93		Denmark v Lithuania		
8/9/93		Albania v Denmark
		ROI v Lithuania
		NI v Latvia
22/9/93		Albania v Spain
13/10/93	ROI v Spain
		Denmark v NI
17/11/93	Spain v Denmark
		NI v ROI

    
    Whelan should have got a game yesterday.
                                             Pat
    

		Republic of Ireland 1 Denmark 1


Ireland got out of jail at Lansdowne Road.  Paul McGrath's persistence won
a corner, Ray Houghton played the ball to Steve Staunton and his cross was
beautifully headed home by Niall Quinn.  The roars of relief echoed around 
Lansdowne Road and Denmark were denied a victory that looked likely for much of
the preceding hour.

Denmark are European champions and they came to prove that their victory was 
no fluke.  Despite claims from their manager Richard Moeller Nielsen that they
would play for a draw, Denmark took the game to Ireland from the first whistle.
Brian Laudrup was a constant thorn in the side of the Irish defence.  He
tormented Eddie McGoldrick and caused stopped 30,000 hearts everytime he got 
the ball.  Despite their early pressure Denmark failed to threaten Bonner's
goal and Ireland gradually gained the upper hand.  Ray Houghton was left with
a free run on goal but he contrived to shoot wide of the target.  The Danes 
stood helplessly appealing for offside.  TV evidence supports their claim so 
maybe justice was done.  A brilliantly worked free kick involving Staunton
and Houghton saw the latter hit a post.

Ireland failed to press home the advantage and after 27 minutes we paid the
penalty.  A harmless ball was played into the Irish box, Bonner raced from 
his goal and called for the ball.  Paul McGrath headed clear but only as far as
Kim Wilfort whose 25 yard volley left Packie Bonner stranded.  The 3,000
Danish fans went berserk as a nation wept.  Travel agents all over the country
were facing bankruptcy and U.S.A. seemed a long way away.

Ireland fought back, Denis Irwin was tripped in the box but the French referee
waved away penalty claims.  He was probably correct but it was still greeted by
a loud chorus of booing.  Niall Quinn was cleared fouled in the box as he 
challenged for a high ball but again the referee was unmoved.  
The second half was a nerve wracking affair.  Ireland pressed forward but the 
Danes are the masters of the counter-attacking game.  Despite Ireland's pressure
Denmark always looked the more likely to score.  Ireland survived a penalty 
appeal when Kernaghan upended Elstrup as he prepared to shoot.  This time
the error of the French referee went uncensored by the crowd.  Just as
the game looked beyond us, enter Niall Quinn.

This was definitely a point saved.  We're still in the strongest position and
look favourites to qualify along with the Danes.  It was a mediocre Irish
performance.  Alan Kernaghan was voted man of the match but this was certainly
a home town decision as Brian Laudrup was head and shoulders above anyone
else on the field.  Alan Kernaghan and Steve Staunton are about the only
2 players to emerge with any credit.  Niall Quinn and substitute Tony 
Cascarino  also did well.


Team
Bonner,Irwin,McGoldrick,McGrath,Kernaghan,Houghton,Townsend,Keane,Staunton,
Aldridge,Quinn.


		Spain 3 Northern Ireland 1

Northern Ireland were totally outclassed yet again.  Kevin Wilson scored
a shock goal after 13 minutes to gives hope of an upset.  The was short-lived
as Julio Salinas punished defensive frailties with 2 goals in 4 minutes.
Hierro made it 3 before the break.

An improved second half performance kept the score respectable for the North
but their world cup dreams are finally over.



Spain		8 4 3 1 16  2  11
Denmark		7 3 4 0  5  1  10
R. of Ireland	6 3 3 0 10  1   9
Lithuania	7 2 3 2  8 11   7
N. Ireland      7 2 2 3  8 10   6
Latvia          8 0 4 4  3 15   4
Albania         7 1 1 5  4 14   3 

    Ireland will be happy with a point after yesterday's performance. 
    Denmark really beat Ireland at their own game - a very solid defence
    and shutting the opposition down immediately they get the ball.
    
    The Irish midfield couldn't get going and really never created anything
    for the front runners who nonetheless looked a bit disappointing.
    
    Still Ireland look in a good position from which to secure
    qualification.  however any slip ups in LAtvia, Lithuania or Albania
    and things will get a bit tight.
    
    As any good football pundit will tell you (ask Jimmy Hill) it is a sign
    of a good team when you play poorly but still avoid defeat.
    
    		Brian
     

    Glad to see your still laughing Neil, after last night's give away at
    Wembley........
    
    
    mmmmm lovely bait by the way.
    
    		Brian

    
    	re .198..
    
    	Thanks, Gary. Excellent report. We'll be seeing your boys in USA
    	by the looks of things.
    
    	Andy.

Just talked to one of our colleagues in Denmark and they were relieved to get
a point also.  The papers there are highlighting the fact we hav a lot of away
games to come.  

Anyhow, I agree with previous comments re: Whelan.  He still must have a part to
play...how many games have Liverpool lost since his return?   (Come on Cunno!)

Shane

    What's the story with Aldo and Coyne for the forthcoming games?  Do
    they clash with tranmere's play-offs?  David Kelly desreves a chance
    anyway...he' bang on form.
    
    Shane

    
    Re -1, Ireland have first call on any players but there's no clash.
    
    Albania 26/5,Latvia 9/6,Lithuania 16/6.
    
    Tranny play on Sunday and on Wed 19th.  If they beat Swindon the final
    is on Monday May 31st.
    
    I'd play TGA ahead of Kelly or Coyne.  I think he's still a better
    striker.  
    
    Gary.

Gary,

Are you sure Ireland have first call.  If Tranmere make the final they may not 
appreciate their top striker going to Albania on his holidays a few days before the
game.  Didn't Wales lose an appeal lately over league Vs country?

Shane

    
    Wales actually won that encounter (over Kit Symons). Portsmouth's game
    was moved back a day, so Symons could join the Weslh party.
    
    Tim

    
    The natonal side has first call on players.  It can demand release of a
    player up to 6 days before a game.  Generally players are allowed to
    play with their clubs the previous weekend.
    
    Wales insisted Pompey move their game to Saturday.  Then they insisted
    on the release anyway.  FIFA found in Pompey's favour because Wales
    asked too late.
    
    Aldo plays for Tranny on May 19th.  We play on May 26th.  He'll rejoin
    Tranny if necessary for the final on May 31st and he'll be available
    for June 9th.  No clash, no problem unless he gets injured.
    
    Gary.

	World Cup, European Qualifier
	Group 3:  Latvia ... 0  Albania .. 0



                        P  W  D  L  F  A  PTS
    Spain		8  4  3  1 16  2   11
    Denmark             7  3  4  0  5  1   10
    Ireland		6  3  3  0 10  1    9
    Lithuania           7  2  3  2  8 11    7
    N. Ireland		7  2  2  3  8 10    6
    Latvia		9  0  5  4  3 15    5
    Albania             8  1  2  5  4 14    4
    

Result from 15-5-93 :

	Latvia		0  Albania	0

                        P  W  D  L  F  A  PTS
    Spain		8  4  3  1 16  2   11
    Denmark             7  3  4  0  5  1   10
    Ireland		6  3  3  0 10  1    9
    Lithuania           7  2  3  2  8 11    7
    N. Ireland		7  2  2  3  8 10    6
    Latvia		9  0  5  4  3 15    5
    Albania             8  1  2  5  4 14    4
    
 
Results in the group so far :

	Spain 	  3  Albania	0
	NI	  2  Lithuania  2
	Ireland   2  Albania	0
	Albania	  1  Lithuania	0
	Latvia	  1  Lithuania	2
	Latvia	  0  Denmark	0
	Ireland   4  Latvia	0
	NI	  3  Albania	0
	Latvia	  0  Spain	0
	Lith.	  0  Denmark	0
	NI	  0  Spain	0
	Denmark	  0  Ireland	0
	Lith.	  1  Latvia	1    
        Albania   1  Latvia     1
        Spain     0  Ireland    0
        NI        0  Denmark    1
	Spain	  5  Latvia	0
	Albania	  1  NI		2   
	Spain	  5  Lithuania  0
	Ireland   3  NI	        0
	Denmark	  1  Spain      0
	Lithuania 3  Albania    1
        Denmark   2  Latvia     0
	Ireland   1  Denmark    1
	Spain     3  NI         1
	Latvia    0  Albania    0

25/5/93		Lithuania v NI
26/5/93		Albania v ROI
2/6/93		Lithuania v Spain
		Latvia v NI
		Denmark v Albania
9/6/93		Latvia v ROI
16/6/93		Lithuania v ROI
25/8/93		Denmark v Lithuania		
8/9/93		Albania v Denmark
		ROI v Lithuania
		NI v Latvia
22/9/93		Albania v Spain
13/10/93	ROI v Spain
		Denmark v NI
17/11/93	Spain v Denmark
		NI v ROI

    Anyone seen sight of one Paul McGrath. Last spotted in the Cork area (no
    doubt celebrating with Johnny Glynn and co.). Seemingly he sustained
    a serious knee injury while doing some coaching with teenage kids,
    which has rules him out of the Irish team selection for tomorrow.
    
    Anyone got any further updates ? 

    Any team news?  I hear Paul Mc Grath asked the porter in the hotel in
    COrk to call Jack about his sore knee.  I didn't hear what time of the
    day it was!  (Porters in Irish hotels are very kind in their assistamce
    of weary travellers with their medicinal needs after closing time...I
    am sure Paul would have no problems with painkillers for his sore knee) 
    
    Jack wasn't very impressed at the press conference with
    questions about Paul's whereabouts...finally losing his patience with a
    "I don't f_____g know where he is but I know he ain't going to ALbania
    today..."
    
    It's sad really as this is the second time within a year that Paul has
    gone awol.  Last time it was in Walsh's in Stoneybatter and the rest 
    is
    legend!
    
    Shane

    Match kicks off today at 4:30 pm Irish Time.....I will have access
    (ahem) to a live feed from the match, but rumours that I have a radio
    on my desk are ( as yet) unfounded...ahem ahem ahem!! ssssssh....
    
    I will keep this note posted of any developments...
    
    *Tiger*

    ALbania 1 - 0 Ireland 
    
    after 8 minutes.
    
    8^(
    
    hold on hold on!!!!!
    
    Steve Staunton has equalised direct from a free kick...!!!
    
    
    8^)))))))))
    
    *Tiger*

    1-1 after 11 mins, Alb. scored first. Staunton from a free after 11.

ANy update? My radio is knackered!

SHane

    
    Still 1-1
    
    Peter

    It's 2-1 now.
    
    Cascarino with his first touch.
    
    Up Lanmore.
    
    Paul

      Any news of THE GREAT ALDO.



      C U N N O

    He was pensioned off.
    

    So was 2-1 to Ireland the final score ?

    re -1
    
    Final Score:
    
    
    ALBANIA 1		NORTHERN IRELAND 2
    Kushta 7            Staunton 13
    			Cascarino 77
    
    
    
    
    mac

yep!!

    re .222
    
    
    Albania 1 - 2 Northern Ireland
    		  =================
    
    
    ????????????????

Result from 25/5/93 :

	Lithuania   0 Northern Ireland 1
	
Result from 26/5/93 :

	Albania	    1   Ireland  2



                        P  W  D  L  F  A  PTS
    Spain		8  4  3  1 16  2   11
    Ireland		7  4  3  0 12  2   11
    Denmark             7  3  4  0  5  1   10
    N. Ireland		8  3  2  3  9 10    8
    Lithuania           8  2  3  3  8 12    7
    Latvia		9  0  5  4  3 15    5
    Albania             9  1  2  6  5 16    4
    
 
Results in the group so far :

	Spain 	  3  Albania	0
	NI	  2  Lithuania  2
	Ireland   2  Albania	0
	Albania	  1  Lithuania	0
	Latvia	  1  Lithuania	2
	Latvia	  0  Denmark	0
	Ireland   4  Latvia	0
	NI	  3  Albania	0
	Latvia	  0  Spain	0
	Lith.	  0  Denmark	0
	NI	  0  Spain	0
	Denmark	  0  Ireland	0
	Lith.	  1  Latvia	1    
        Albania   1  Latvia     1
        Spain     0  Ireland    0
        NI        0  Denmark    1
	Spain	  5  Latvia	0
	Albania	  1  NI		2   
	Spain	  5  Lithuania  0
	Ireland   3  NI	        0
	Denmark	  1  Spain      0
	Lithuania 3  Albania    1
        Denmark   2  Latvia     0
	Ireland   1  Denmark    1
	Spain     3  NI         1
	Latvia    0  Albania    0
        Lith.     0  NI         1
        Albania   1  Ireland    2



2/6/93		Lithuania v Spain
		Latvia v NI
		Denmark v Albania
9/6/93		Latvia v ROI
16/6/93		Lithuania v ROI
25/8/93		Denmark v Lithuania		
8/9/93		Albania v Denmark
		ROI v Lithuania
		NI v Latvia
22/9/93		Albania v Spain
13/10/93	ROI v Spain
		Denmark v NI
17/11/93	Spain v Denmark
		NI v ROI

    re - 224
    
    whoops ?!?!
    
    sorry, maybe should have read Eire !!!!
    
    mac

    Listening to the game on the radio all I can say is Phew!  Still two
    points is what matters.
    
    When Is Jack finally going to waken up to the fact that TGA is
    finished as an international player.  In fact, he never got started.
                                       
    Shane

    Well looking at this group the interesting thing is that Spain, Denmark
    and Eire don't play anybody other than the minnows between now and
    October so making sure they win and gettinga few goals will be
    important. Then in October it comes down to whoever wins the games
    between the 3 sides.
    
    Looking good for Eire though.
    
    Regards,
    
    Andrew.D.Wicks

    Re: -1 Although with one game more played and both Ireland and Denmark
    to play, Spain may be in a weaker position.   As things stand,
    Ireland's destiny is in their own hands.  
    
    Getting points is the priority, and both Spain and Denmark have dropped 
    points to the so-called minnows.  Although they lost this week,
    Lithuania have looked a useful side capable of causing problems.  
    
    
    Shane  

			Albania 1 Ireland 2

Ireland showed great character in coming from behind to defeat Albania.  The
pre-match build up ensured that this game was never going to be easy.  The
newspapers were full of horror stories concerning Tirana and supporters
were advised not to travel by the F.A.I.  Three hundred of us duly ignored
the advice and discovered that the media hype was totally out of order.  The
largest invasion of football fans ever seen in Albania was welcomed with open 
arms by a friendly albeit poor people.  

The game started badly for Ireland.  Demollari broke from his own half and
played a superb 60 yard through ball.  Kushta easily outpaced Alan
Kernaghan and beat a static Packie Bonner.  Ireland came straight back.
Roy Keane was just off target before Andy Townsend was fouled outside the
box.  Stephen Staunton curled a 25 yard free kick to the net to leave the
sides level after 15 minutes.  The rest of the first half was pretty
non descript.

The Albanians tired visibly in the second period but defended stoutly.
John Aldridge shot straight at the keeper and Roy Keane was also denied before
Jaqck Charlton finally decided to send in Tony Cascarino.  Two minutes
after arriving on the field Tony Cascarino headed in Stephen Staunton's 
corner.  There were roars of relief from the 300 Irish fans.  The last
12 minutes saw Ireland come close to extending the lead as Albania clearly
threw in the towel.  This was a vital win for Ireland and greatly enhances
our chances of reaching the finals.


			David O'Leary Testimonial

			Ireland XI 2 Hungary 4

An Ireland XI unrecognizable to the one that took the field in Albania
collapsed in the second half against Hungary.  Roy Keane gave Ireland a
12th second lead and Niall Quinn made it 2 after 3 minutes.  Ireland then
made a number of substitutions and paid the price as Alan Kelly conceded
4 goals including 2 in the last seven minutes that gave Hungary victory.
Ireland did not recognize this as a full International and failed to award
caps. 

    
    	You WENT to Albania! I'm impressed! But what a dreadful game, still
    it can't be easy over there.
    
    
    			Steve

    According to the latest reports Paul McGrath is back in the Irish squad
    to meet Latvia and Lithuania. Although this was the predicted outcome,
    a certain Dave O'Leary must be wondering what his sins in a past life
    were to deserve his fate in the International wilderness, after a
    run-in with Big Jack in his early days as manager. 
    
    IMHO, O'Leary is justified to feel a little agrieved about the Iceland
    incident when he did not cancel a pre-planned end of season family
    holiday to play in tournament, which in effect ended his International
    career with Ireland. At the he was one of the best centre-halves in 
    England. However Jack has seen fit to overlook McGrath's errant ways for 
    this second time. I am delighted that McGrath is back and think
    Charlton has handled the situation well, but I can only wonder about
    the actual events and reasons behind Dave O'Leary's fall from grace.
    
    Keith.
    

 ��� which in effect ended his International career with Ireland.

 O'Leary has played in 27 Internationals since his run-in with Jack.
 

    Keith,
    
    There were other factors. At the time Mick McCarthy and Kevin Moran
    were doing the business the way Jack wanted it done.
    
    There was no shortage of central defenders but watching Kernaghan
    getting skinned last week and watching his close control (!) against
    Denmark it's clear that discretion is the better part of valour on
    Jack's part.
    
    Charlton is paid based on Ireland qualifying for major tournaments and
    on performing creditably at them not to punish/rehabilitate people with
    some normal social habits/problems.
    
    All this IMHO.
    
    cheers,
    
    Paul

	Ye, but look at the number of games he missed, too many - think
	of the number of caps he'd have now. Heading towards the big ton
	i'd say...though I'm glad Jack has let paul back in.

    
    At the time Jack was quite stubborn.  He also had to make it clear who
    was boss.  Had this happened 7 years ago McGrath was gone too.  This
    happened at a time when leading players changed team selections.
    
    I'm glad McGrath is back.  We need him.  3 points in the Baltics will
    do me fine.  Lets win in Latvia first though and then think about
    Lithuania.
    
    Gary.

    Most punters are happy to see McGrath back and no doubt we need him.
    However, O'Leary could have played a much bigger role in the Irish 
    International scene over the past few years, if Jack had not decided to
    judge so strictly, whatever his reasoning at the time.
    
    Keith.

    I'm glad "The Big Man" is back as well.  Perhaps people with normal
    social habits/problems deserve lenience, they also deserve
    encouragement not to repeat their errand ways.  Picking a player who
    misses training and now two major games without adequate explanation
    can be damaging on any team's  morale.  Most decently organised junior
    teams have a no train midweek/noplay at weekend policy.    
                                                 
    McGrath has let himself, his team mates and his country down.  Luckily,
    despite a mistake by his replacement, we won last week. A brief
    spell on the bench, even 45 minutes, wouldn't  do him any harm.  Let's 
    hope he doesn't go missing before a game where our alternative centre 
    halves are injured.  Having one rule for Paul and different rules for
    everyone else (especially O'Leary, Whelan) could backfire.
    
    I think he gets away with it because he is basically a likeable bufoon.
    His breaches of discipline span back to the Eoin Hand era.  Apparently
    he came in one night after "curfew" to be caught by Eoin Hand and Mick
    Byrne.  Paul casually strolled over to the lads.  When asked why he was
    late when everyone was warned "not to be off on the town chasing birds 
    for the night"  Paul replied "but I was out with the wife boss". 

I'm not so sure about condemning McGrath since we don't
know what his reasons were for his sudden departure. We 
all talk about Jack being lenient with Paul but when has
Jack ever been lenient with anyone before. I think we 
should give Paul the benifit of the doubt ... again.

Meanwhile, in group 3 the are some interesting games on
tomorrow.

Lithuania - Spain     : could be interesting from an 
                        Irish perspective, Spain have 
                        already dropped a point to Latvia
                        away so really need to win this
                        one.


Latvia - N.Ireland    : still in or out for the North

Denmark - Albania     : I wonder what team will play !


The Albania's will be wearing their sponsors logo 
'SPAIN' for match (allegedly).

    re: .239 and the Albanians using a "SPAIN" logo...maybe Gary did a deal
    with them in Tirana?
    
    

    Maybe Gary's hedging his bets in this group since he obviously has ties
    to three teams:
    1) the group leaders SPAIN who are named after him
    2) Eire where he lives
    3) albania who he sponsors
    
    Regards,
    
    Andrew.D.Wicks

    
    		Lithunia     0:2    Spain
    		Latvia       1:2    Northern Ireland
    		Denmark      4:0    Albania
    
    
    Stephen C.
    

Results from 02/06/93 :


    	Lithunia     0:2    Spain
   	Latvia       1:2    Northern Ireland
    	Denmark      4:0    Albania


                        P  W  D  L  F  A  PTS
    Spain		9  5  3  1 18  2   13
    Denmark             8  4  4  0  9  1   12
    Ireland		7  4  3  0 12  2   11
    N. Ireland		9  4  2  3 11 11   10
    Lithuania           9  2  3  4  8 14    7
    Latvia	       10  0  5  5  4 17    5
    Albania            10  1  2  7  5 20    4
    
 
Results in the group so far :

	Spain 	  3  Albania	0
	NI	  2  Lithuania  2
	Ireland   2  Albania	0
	Albania	  1  Lithuania	0
	Latvia	  1  Lithuania	2
	Latvia	  0  Denmark	0
	Ireland   4  Latvia	0
	NI	  3  Albania	0
	Latvia	  0  Spain	0
	Lith.	  0  Denmark	0
	NI	  0  Spain	0
	Denmark	  0  Ireland	0
	Lith.	  1  Latvia	1    
        Albania   1  Latvia     1
        Spain     0  Ireland    0
        NI        0  Denmark    1
	Spain	  5  Latvia	0
	Albania	  1  NI		2   
	Spain	  5  Lithuania  0
	Ireland   3  NI	        0
	Denmark	  1  Spain      0
	Lithuania 3  Albania    1
        Denmark   2  Latvia     0
	Ireland   1  Denmark    1
	Spain     3  NI         1
	Latvia    0  Albania    0
        Lith.     0  NI         1
        Albania   1  Ireland    2
    	Lithunia  0  Spain      2
   	Latvia    1  NI         2
    	Denmark   4  Albania    0



9/6/93		Latvia v ROI
16/6/93		Lithuania v ROI
25/8/93		Denmark v Lithuania		
8/9/93		Albania v Denmark
		ROI v Lithuania
		NI v Latvia
22/9/93		Albania v Spain
13/10/93	ROI v Spain
		Denmark v NI
17/11/93	Spain v Denmark
		NI v ROI

    
    beat me to it Brendan.  :-)
    

		Latvia 1 Northern Ireland 2

Northern Ireland gained a fortunate victory over Latvia in Riga.  Jim Magilton
gave Northern Ireland a 4th minutes lead and Gerry Taggart headed number 2
after 15 minutes.  Northern Ireland dominated the remainder of the half but
failed to add to their tally.  It was a different story after the break.
Linards pull;ed a goal back after 55 minutes and Latvia were desperately
unlucky not to equalise.  tommy Wright made 3 great saves and Nigel Worthington
made a desperate goal-line clearance in the dying minutes.

		Lithuania 0 Spain 2

Spain gained a vital 2 points in Vilnius after eventually breaking down a
solid home defence.  The first half was a dismal affair with Lithuania
defending in numbers and Spain unable to break them down.  Lithuania
held out for most of the second half but just when it looked like they'd
do Ireland and Denamrk a big favour Guerrero headed home.  This came
in the 73rd minute.  4 minutes later the Athletico Bilbao striker got his
second and Nadal was denied a 3rd by the crossbar.  This win keeps Spain
on top of group 3.

		Denmark 4 Albania 0

Denmark crushed Albania with a very impressive display.  4 first half goals
delighted the capacity crowd in Parken stadium.  John Jensen, Frank Pingel
2 and Peter Moeller ensured this game became a formality.  The Danes failed
to add to their tally in the second half and they could yet rue this 
opportunity if they fail to qualify on goal difference.



Spain		9  5 3 1  18  2 13
Denmark		8  4 4 0   9  1 12
Rep. of Ireland	7  4 3 0  12  2 11
N. Ireland	9  4 2 3  11 11 10
Lithuania	9  2 3 4   8 14  7
Latvia	       10  0 5 5   4 17  5
Albania	       10  1 2 7   5 20  4


To play 

9/6/93		Latvia v ROI
16/6/93		Lithuania v ROI
25/8/93		Denmark v Lithuania		
8/9/93		Albania v Denmark
		ROI v Lithuania
		NI v Latvia
22/9/93		Albania v Spain
13/10/93	ROI v Spain
		Denmark v NI
17/11/93	Spain v Denmark
		NI v ROI

    
    So Gary, after seeing the two Baltic countries' performances, what do
    you rate the Republic's chances against them over the fortnight ? It
    seems that they have a battle on to break these guys down ?
    
    A couple of 1-0 performances would suit Jack's lads I'm sure.
    
    Regards,
    
    Dezzz.

    
    Dezzz, 2 1-0 wins will do fine.  Even 3 points would be acceptable as
    we'd be ahead of Spain when they come to Dublin.  We will look for 2
    victories.  The fact that Northern Ireland beat both countries is
    encouraging.  
    
    This is the way I see it.
    
    5 points from Lat,Lith H & A, draw with Spain and draw in Belfast.  The
    worst that can happen then is that we lose on goal difference to
    Denmark if all other results go against us.  6 points from the next 3
    games and the 2 draws will do.  We could even afford to lose to Spain.
    
    We should get 6 points and I don't think Spain are good enough to beat
    us in Dublin.
    
    Denmark should have 18 points before they go to Seville in November.
    2 wins in the Baltics, a home win over Lithuania and a draw with Spain
    will give us 18 points.  Given that scenario Spain's maximum is 16. 
    They'd need to beat the Danes to qualify and we'd qualify anyway unless
    we got stuffed in Belfast.
    
    A victory over Spain would of course put us through but I'd rather have
    the cuhion of only needing a point.  I'm assuming the worst possible
    result too in Seville.  On current form you've got to fancy Denmark to
    at least draw in Seville.
    
    Gary.  

    My fear is that both Latvia and Lituania, look close to getting some
    sort of home result soon. Given they both have played in recent
    weeks, this is not good news for Ireland. We cannot afford to be
    complacent and I am sure Jack will ensure that is the case. I will
    be happier hen Ireland are through this two games with points in the
    bag.
    
    Keith.

    I would think it's essential for Eire to take at least 4 points from
    their next 3 games against Latvia and Lithuania (twice) before the two
    final crunch games against Spain and Northern Ireland. 
    with Eire and Denmark not meeting again it looks like the Spain game
    will decide it.
    
    Still looking better for Eire than other non-continental European
    nations!
    
    Regards,
    
    Andrew.D.wicks

    Re: -1 ,
    
    I thought it was non mainland rather than continental?  Anyhow, Spain
    and Denmark are keeping up the pressure and we can't afford a slip. 
    They have the points in the bag.  We haven't.  Staying in pole position
    is down to the usual hard work...PUT THEM UNDER PRESSURE.  Forget the
    goals...get the points... 1nils will do.
    
    Shane

    Gary,
    
    As I'm leaving the company next wednesday and having my piss-up that
    day do you know what time Kick-off is for the Latvia game.
    
    Cheers
    
    Stephen C.
    

The Ireland v Latvia game kicks off at 5pm tomorrow 
(at least that's the time RTE start covering the game). 
According to the 2FM this morning McGrath has been
included in the team so it is likely that Moran will
be dropped. Personnally I'd prefer to see Kernighan on
the bench but it's much of a muchness really.

Fintan.
 

    Does anyone know if the Latvian game is going to be shown by R.T.E.
    
              Rgds,
    
                    Anthony.

    
    The team should have been announced by now.  Anyone got the team?
    
    Gary.

    
    Re .252,
    
    Yes it's live.  The Lithuania game next week is also live.
    
    Gary.

    
    Kevin Moran has been dropped and Mcgrath will play along side
    Kernaghan. Moran is 5 caps short of Liam Brady's record (of 71?), but
    Jack says he has to look to the future. Looks like it could be the end
    of the road for Moran (baring injuries).
    
    Tim

    coverage starting on RTE at 4:45 pm. I presume that means a 5 P.M. kick
    off with Eamonn Dunphy being given 15 minutes to inform us as to why he
    hasnt been paying his car tax etc.
    
    *Tiger*

	Bonner
	Iwrin
	Phelan
	Kernaghan
	Mcgrath
	Keane
	Townsend
	Houghton
	Quinn
	Aldridge
	Staunton

	
	At the moment I'd rather Moran in, But Jack does have a point, we have
	to move on. Kernaghan's lack of pace is worrying but I'd be happy if
	we had somebody with pace as the other centre half to cover him. So
	Mcgrath covers that but what happens when Mcgrath goes???

Maybe Howard Wilkinson will release David O'Leary from Leeds to play sweeper
when McGrath goes -:)  Past history suggests another second division plodder
is preferable.  Maybe Pat Scully will win his second cap!

By the way, Dunphy didn't pay his insurance either.  

Does anyone know if the game is on ITV?  (Hardly, although the Denmark game was) 


Shane

    Shane,
    
    Do you get Central or Carlton or Meridian ???
    
    Neither the Latvia nor the Lithuania games are scheduled for Central, I
    suspect this is the case for the other ITV channels also.  It's a
    little disappointing but at least they show the games from Lansdowne
    live.
    
    		Brian

    
    It might be disappointing to many UK based Irish fans, but can you imagine
    the noise made by Mrs Bingley of Basildon et al, if her favourite TV 
    programme was rescheduled because of an IRISH world cup qualifier?
    
    Tim 

T

Tim,

Mrs Bingsley better get used to the idea of watching Ireland and hopefully
Wales next summer.  Maybe they will transmit in Gaelic!

Shane

    anyone know what radio channel the game will go out on and what
    the frequency is . I guess I should be able to pick up rte radio on
    medium wave from here in sunny Ayr. 
    
    Thanks ,
    
    Feargal .

Feargal,

Try 567 to 570 MW.  I can get a reasonable reception in Reading...enough to hear 
Tony Cascarino scoring the winner Vs Albania in the car on the way home from
work.  It should be in English unless Michael O'Muircheartearaigh is doing a
bilingual commentary!

Shane

    Team was announced this morning on radio two,the line up is.....
    
    
                             BONNER
    
         IRWIN              MCGRATH                PHELAN
                           KERNIGHAN
    
        HOUGAN      KEANE           TOWNSEND      STAUNTON
    
    
               ALDRIDGE       QUINN OR CASCARINO
    
    
    
    Niall Quinn has picked up some bug and is touch an go if he will play.
    
    
    	Best of luck to the Irish today.I predict a two-nil victory with 
        Keane and Aldo to score.I'd be happy with 1-0 though.
    
    
             Regards,
    
                   Anthony.

    Feargal,
             You should have no trouble picking it up on M.W. in Ayr. I was
             over there for the last match and i picked it up on the car
             radio. 
    
    GOOD LUCK TO IRELAND TODAY 
    
    Stephen
     

    
    I read an intresting snipnet yesterady in the "Irish News" that the
    Irish squad had trained in public on Monday. This is supposed to be
    rare enough coming up to a world cup international. The report states
    that the Latvian team and officials were there watching. Big jack was
    supposed to have said that every one was welcome.
    
    The report ended comparing this to the behavior of England before their
    game with Norway when even their own Norwegian interpreter was barred 
    from training sessions. Maybe Taylor didin't want everyone to see that
    he had no tactics before the game started.
    
    :-) John M.
                                         

    Where are you watching the match John.M????
    
     Rgds,
    
      Anthony.
    

    Congrats to the Republic of Ireland on a great performance.The
    scoreline does not reflect the dominance of the Irish through out
    the game.I was right on the scoreline but only half right on the
    scorers.
    
    great performance by the English V the USA last night(sarcasm).
    Once more England were totally outplayed.
    
    Rgds,
    
    Anthony.

    
    Great win.  Should have scored a lot more goals but I'm very happy with
    2 points.  I'll post a full report later.
    
    Gary.

    Indeed a great performance by Ireland. Two points in the bag and the
    only possible criticism is the fact that we should have scored more;
    a good complaint ! Kernaghan had a couple of scary moments and looked
    uncomfortable at times. 
    
    Same again in Lituania and Ireland are looking good.
    
    Keith.  

    
    

		Latvia 0 Republic of Ireland 2

Ireland crushed Latvia in Riga.  Two first half goals from John Aldridge and
Paul McGrath were enough to give Ireland a comfortable victory.  

Ireland imposed themselves on the game from the very first whistle.  Denis
Irwin and Ray Houghton were dominant on the right flank with Steve Staunton
and Terry Phelan equally in control on the other side.  The first goal 
arrived after 14 minutes.  Roy Keane released Denis Irwin with a perfectly
timed pass and his inch perfect cross was headed home by John Aldridge.  This
was the 400th competitive goal scored by Ireland and we've scored few better 
ones.  Latvia did threaten to equalise and a Linards shot deflected off Paul
McGrath and dropped just over the bar.  Niall Quinn should have made it
two after 30 minutes but he shot wide from 12 yards with only the keeper
to beat.  The second goal eventually came after 43 minutes.  Ray Houghton
crossed for Paul McGrath to head home.  A clever run by John Aldridge had 
left McGRath unmarked and this goal was the perfect way to complete his
rehabilitation.  Niall Quinn's goalbound header hit an Irish playera minute
later and the half time whistle arrived just in time for Latvia.

Goalkeeper Karavajevs was the hero for the home side in the second period.
Ireland were totally dominant after the break and should have added to the
2-0 scoreline.  The keeper made a superb save from Andy Townsend when he 
touched Andy's shot onto the corssbar.  John Aldridge blazed wide in front of 
an open goal.  Latvia somehow survived when Aldridge had an effort saved on 
the line with Roy Keane hitting the inside of the post with the rebound.
I'm still unclear as to how the Latvians cleared the ball.  Steve Staunton
was put clear but again denied by a superb save from Karavajevs.

Janis Gilis the Latvian manager claimed afterwards that it was a good result
for his team.  Jack Charlton was also delighted but did pass comment on the 
many missed chances.  It was a good day for the fans too.  Most of us had a
punishing schedule.  I'm back in work this morning without seeing a bed for
the last 2 nights.  A family event this weekend meant that I couldn't stay
for the week.  Many fans faced torturous train journeys from Moscow and Warsaw.
More came via Helsinki and Tallin.  The general consensus was that it was
well worth it and most of us will be in Vilnius next Wednesday.

Irish team

Bonner,Irwin,Phelan,Kernaghan,McGrath,Houghton,Keane,Townsend,Staunton,
Quinn (sub Cascarino 74), Aldridge (sub Sheridan 80).

Spain		9  5 3 1  18  2 13
Rep. of Ireland	8  5 3 0  14  2 13
Denmark		8  4 4 0   9  1 12
N. Ireland	9  4 2 3  11 11 10
Lithuania	9  2 3 4   8 14  7
Latvia	       11  0 5 6   4 19  5
Albania	       10  1 2 7   5 20  4


To play 

16/6/93		Lithuania v ROI
25/8/93		Denmark v Lithuania		
8/9/93		Albania v Denmark
		ROI v Lithuania
		NI v Latvia
22/9/93		Albania v Spain
13/10/93	ROI v Spain
		Denmark v NI
17/11/93	Spain v Denmark
		NI v ROI

Two goals, two points, level at the top of the group with a game on hand.  Can't
complain...get the points and the goals won't count.  From what I could hear on
the radio, Roy Keane appeared to be everywhere forging a great link with Denis
Irwin?  Was he man of the match?

The group table put last year's results in America at this time of the year in
context -:)  

On more Baltic Bananna skin to go.

Shane

    >>.273
    
    Yes Roy Keane was for me man of the match. We had a few jittery 
    moments early on but once we scored it was over as a contest. They
    had little to offer. After Paul McGrath put us two up we should have
    scored at least three more with their keeper and the woodwork coming 
    to the rescue. Even Packy looked OK last night after a few jittery 
    performances.
    
    Next week its back to the Baltics again. Live on RTE again (4.15pm
    Irish time KO). I ca'nt see Jack making any changes for this match
    although I thougt Kernahan looked less than assured.
    
    Pat

    Shane,
    
    I would have Keane down for MOM. He competed for everything. Linked up
    both full-backs, Staunton and Irwin. He played a sweet throug ball to 
    Irwan for the first goal. In the second half, Phelan, Staunton and 
    Keane ran riot down the left flank, and should really have scored more
    from the opportunities they created.
    
    Keane made strong positive runs into the box, taking on defenders,
    setting up chances and was very unlucky not to score when he showed
    his determination and bravery in trying to turn in a goal line
    clearance from an Aldo effort. All in all I'd say he and the rest 
    of the team are satisfied with his performance. 
    rest of the team was
    
    
    Keith.

I think everyone would agree that Roy was the best player
on the pitch yerterday (which is the first time I think 
that we could say that). He linked up brilliantly with
Irwin for the first goal and looked dangerous everytime 
he got the ball.

He was interviewed this morning on 2FM and was asked if
he has made up his mind yet about his new club. He says 
his mindi s made up but he wont announce his choice until
next week, I assume this means that Newcastle are out of
the running if Keagan is still on holidays. I hope he
opts for United and collects a league medal before 
heading to Italy.

Fintan.

    No, this was not his best performance, good and all as it was. If he
    plays another 100 internationals, he'll probably never equal his 
    performance in Seville, his control in a fast, hectic game was
    unbelievable.
    
    tony.
    

    
    re .276 by ESSB::MANNING
    
>    next week, I assume this means that Newcastle are out of
>    the running if Keagan is still on holidays.
    
    Newcastle have publicly discounted themselves from getting Keane after
    they were quoted �5M for him this week. His personal terms were not a
    problem.
    
    Tim

    Kevin Moran has been offered a new contract by Kenny Dalglish.  David
    O'Leary has been offered a new contract by Howard WIlkinson.  Both
    managers have won leagues.  Meanwhile Alan Kernaghan is out of contract
    at Middlesbore, a "second" division team.  I just wonder do Kenny and
    Howard realise the bargain they are missing?  Or are they missing
    something?

    re .272 (gary)
    
    good match report - I can tell you that there were some bemused
    American and English faces around us (tom, frank and I) last Wednesday
    night when it was announced at half-time in the game at Foxboro that
    Aldo had got one of the goals and two wettish Americans and a wettish
    Welshman stood up and shouted "Aldo, Aldo, Aldo"
    
    Hope you pick up 2 more points on wed as it's going to be tight at the
    top by september and assuming denmark win in Aug the top 3 teams will
    read Eire 15, Denmark 14, Spain 13 - it's going to be a close one
    in this group since you know that northern Ireland will be playing
    their game very seriously when you play them.
    
    regards,
    
    Andrew.D.wicks 

Well, I must apologise for the delay in getting this report out to the
masses, but, quite frankly, I have been shellshocked (or should I say 
"shamrocked"?) for the last few days. You see, gentleman, I have witnessed the
footballing equivalent of the Harlem Globetrotters...and they rejoice in the
name of Big Jack's Green Grinders.

Let me start by saying that if Latvia had any serious ideas about winning the
World Cup at the first opportunity, they now know what they're up against. Last
Wednesday, Jack's boys did us proud and in doing so, have probably shaped the
pattern of Baltic football for the years to come. Mr. Gilis, the Latvia
manager, and his players are no doubt discussing at this very moment the merits
of the sort of football they'd previously only seen in videos of the great Real
Madrid and Ajax teams of the 60s and 70s. Latvian schoolboys are already 
putting into practice the subtleties demonstrated by Stephen "Meteorite" 
Staunton and Alan "Keizer Franz" Kernighan (Ulster's finest) that so delighted
those fortunate enough to be in Riga for the game. (And just *where* were all 
the foreign journalists? Probably taking an early end-of-season holiday. More 
fool them...).

The game was pretty much over by the 14th minute thanks to one of those soccer
rarities, an Irish *headed* goal. Irwin conjured up an extraordinary cross for
Aldridge, and as we all know, the cheerful Scouser doesn't miss those. Paul
McGrath wrapped things up after 43 minutes with a goal that'll delight the
folks back in London. The cross was supplied by that genial Glaswegian, Ray
Houghton (I bet the Scots are kicking themselves!).

For the best part of 90 minutes, we were treated to the sort of football all
too rarely seen outside of South America. "Tornado" Townsend showed everything
he learned on Hackney Marshes by spraying passes to all parts of the field with
his usual authority. Niall Quinn provided some of those deft touches that we've
all come to know and love, to underline just why Marco Van  Basten carries a 
photograph of Niall in his back pocket. Biggest cheer of the day was reserved 
for Tony "The Crafty Cockney" Cascarino when he came on for the last 20 
minutes. For a moment I thought Big Jack had taken leave of his Geordie senses;
not even Brazil can afford three ball-playing front men on the park at the same
time. What a relief when Big Niall came off! He'd run his Oirish heart out, 
mind...

John Sheridan also got on in the second half and showed that his bossing of the
F.A. Cup Final was no one-off. (Hey, if 1953 was the Matthews Final, why hasn't
1993 been dubbed "The Sheridan Final"? Bloody English tabloids...dunno why I
read 'em.). Meanwhile, there was no respite for the Latvian defence and the 8th
row of the terraces, neither of whom had any answer to Steve Staunton's 
relentless aerial bombardment.   

Eire toyed with the opposition for most of the second half and the locals
entered into the swing of things by joining in with the Gaelic equivalent of
"Ol�" each time a green shirted player touched the ball. A great time was had
by all, I can assure you. As an aside, I'm sure the Americans can't wait for 
the Green Army to hit their shores. A friendlier, more down-to-earth bunch you 
could never wish to see, an impression confirmed by the hordes of tearful 
Latvians who came to see us off at the airport. Their rendition of "Irish Eyes"
was something I won't forget in a hurry. I'm sure sellers of Irish gadgetry are
already doing brisk business in Vilnius!    

I'm sure we can batter Lithuania home and away, bombard the Spans into
submission (who can resist the Lansdowne Road effect?) and victory in Belfast
should then round things off in the best possible way. Eight points out of 
eight will do me nicely.

So it's hats off to these ambassadors of British football! Actually, that's the
only sour note; despite the milder-than-mild temperatures, the leader of our 
party told us to keep our green hats and scarves on at all times for fear of 
being mistaken for those arrogant hooligans from across the water. Well, I'm 
happy to say that the Latvian people can certainly distinguish an Irish brogue
from the ugly Churchillian tones of the "fans" of St. George's Cross. 

Let's hope such a distiction won't be necessary in US94.

Dom O'Turner 

    Dom,
    
    Have you been overdosing on those sarcasm tablets again ????
    
    
    Or is it your reply to a similar attempt in the Group 2 note ?? 
    ZZZzzzzzzzz
    
    		Brian
     

    
    Now you're gettin' into the swing of things.
    
    Keep it up !
    
    An Impartial Celt.

	Dom,
	
	Bugger. I missed reply 130.281 because like everybody else, I always
	NEXT UNSEEN note 130. Today however, when my friend the impartial celt
	actually put something in there, I felt duty bound to read what all the
	fuss was about.
	Well done all! 
	
	Ian.
	

    Well, I daressay I was beginning to get offended. I mean, you dedicate
    half of your lunch hour to illuminating this conference about football
    as it really *should* be played, and what do you get? Two measly
    replies, totalling about 10 words. I dunno, some people just don't
    recognise young journalistic talent...
    
    >I always NEXT UNSEEN note 130
    
    Ian, call yourself a football fan? Hitting NEXT UNSEEN in 130 is like
    reading the Guardian for the cartoons page (for all you Irish noters,
    the Guardian is one of those jumbo-sized newspapers that you can't read
    unless you've got arms like the wingspan of an albatross!).
    
    Btw, I didn't give my opinion on the issue that's causing trouble,
    strife, wailing and gnashing of teeth in this notesfile: was Roy
    Keane's performance against Latvia his best yet for Eire? Gentlemen, where 
    were you when Roy played against the Canadian Mounties All-Stars? Or the 
    Burundi President's Select X1? 
    
    You're just a bunch of fair-weather supporters...
    
    Dom    
    

    What time is kick off tomorrow (UK time) ?
    
    Will RTE1 be broadcasting the match ?
    
    Thanks in advance ,
     
    Feargal .

    
    16:30 Kickoff
    
    Yep ! R.T.E are showing it live.
    
    C'mon the boys in Green !
    
    An Impartial Celt.

    It's on R.T.E. 2 16.00 (coverage). k.o. 16.30.
    
    Paul

	When is the team being picked (if not already)

	Thanks
	
	Mick

    
    Me thinks Jack is going with the same 11 who played last week.
    At least he indicated as much in an interview with the Irish Times
    yesterday.
    
    Peter.

    Tommorows team is.......
    
    
                              BONNER
    
           IRWIN             MCGRATH             PHELAN
                            KERNIGHAN
    
    
          HOUGHTAN     KEANE      TOWNSEND      STAUNTON
    
    
                      QUINN      ALDRIDGE
    
    
    
    
     
    
      
    
    
             REGARDS,
    
              ANTHONY.
    

Did anyone here the story this morning about Niall Quinn
nearly missing the plane ?? I just caught the end of the
item on the news !





PS. Feargal the game is also on RTE1 radio as well.

	Seeming the team were heading to dublin when Niall suddenly anounced
	that he had forgotten his passport....

	They had to radio Monaghan and a Gardai had to drive at high speed to
	get to the Airport int time...

	Mick

Re. .281 - a definitite candidate for "Note of the year".  Did you ever think 
of applying for a jopb with VIZ?

Setanta (those of no Albanian game on TV fame) are showing the games in Irish 
pubs in the London area.  They even broadcast the ALbanian game.  I believe
its hard to get in, hard to hear above the green hordes and even harder to get
to the bar.      

We need to watch out for the yellow cards in the next two games, especially in 
the midfield area.  

Shane

    Team:
    
    
    			Bonner
    			Irwin
    			Kernaghan
    			McGrath
    			Phelan
    			Houghton
    			Keane
    			Townsend
        		Staunton
    			Quinn
    			Aldridge
    
    Kick off 4:30 Irish Time...on Network 2 TV, and RTE Radio 1 Medium
    Wave.
    
    Luv,
    
    *Tiger*
    	

Why is he picking the same team every game?  I thought he would try three 
centre halves, play a sharp left sided midfielder left full and push one of 
the midfield upfront.

Shane

    I have me 'tranny' with me. If I cant get out to watch the game on
    telly, I'll keep this conference posted regularly.
    
    luv,
    
    *Tiger*

    
    Anyone else care to predict the score and scorers ?
    
    Peter.

re: .294

>Re. .281 - a definite candidate for "Note of the year". Did you ever think of
>applying for a job with VIZ?

You know, it's probably a mark of the time I've been away from the UK that I
had to ask a colleague of mine (English) just what on earth is "VIZ"! Thanks for
the compliment (?), anyway.

re: .292

> Did anyone hear the story this morning about Niall Quinn nearly missing the
> plane ??                                                 ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
                                                 
Sure, it's a well-known fact that international air traffic control have to be
alerted whenever Eire (and especially Bomber Staunton) are playing. 

Adds a new meaning to the expression "aerial bombardment"...

Dom

    re .294
    
    My brother-in-law watched one of the matches last year at a
    theartre/cinema in Acton.  I guess it was run by that company.  He said
    the atmosphere was good, view/sound average, and drink was bloody hard
    to get - 5 or 6 deep at the bar the whole evening.
    
    Only worth going if it is not on anywhere else.  A win tonight will put
    Ireland in pole position but the last 2 games are going to be very
    difficult.  Nothing will be decided until October at the earliest.
    
    		Brian

    I predict a 3-0 win for Ireland with Aldo ,Quinn,and Keane getting the
    goals.
    
    
    
           Rgds,
    
                 Anthony.

The game is on live on the big screen in the Reading and Distric Irish Assoc., 
Chatham ST., Reading.  Admission is free, bar open for business, visitors welcome.


SHane

   If we get a point I'll be very happy, if we get two I'll be on the piss
tomorrow night as only a major major mishap will not see us going to the states.

                                                                  -dave-

>>Note 130.299              World Cup qualifying Group 3                299 of 305
>>ESSB::PHAYDEN "It's not how long it takes but how we" 4 lines  16-JUN-1993 12:40
>>                                    -< 0-3 >-
>>--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
>>    Anyone else care to predict the score and scorers ?
    
>>    Peter.
    
    Yes,  1-1.
    
    An Impartial Lithuanian.
    
    :-)
    

    Lithuania 0 -1 Ireland 
    
    own goal
    
    41 ish minutes
    
    *Tiger*

    Final score 1-0 to Ireland.

By my calculation, Ireland are now 4 points away from certain 
qualification, with 3 games left. However I don't think 3 teams
will get more than 17 points.


9/6/93		Latvia     0:2  Ireland
16/6/93		Lithuania  0:1  Ireland


                        P  W  D  L  F  A  PTS
    Ireland		9  6  3  0 15  2   15
    Spain		9  5  3  1 18  2   13
    Denmark             8  4  4  0  9  1   12
    N. Ireland		9  4  2  3 11 11   10
    Lithuania          10  2  3  5  8 15    7
    Latvia	       11  0  5  6  4 19    5
    Albania            10  1  2  7  5 20    4
    
 
Results in the group so far :

	Spain 	  3  Albania	0
	NI	  2  Lithuania  2
	Ireland   2  Albania	0
	Albania	  1  Lithuania	0
	Latvia	  1  Lithuania	2
	Latvia	  0  Denmark	0
	Ireland   4  Latvia	0
	NI	  3  Albania	0
	Latvia	  0  Spain	0
	Lith.	  0  Denmark	0
	NI	  0  Spain	0
	Denmark	  0  Ireland	0
	Lith.	  1  Latvia	1    
        Albania   1  Latvia     1
        Spain     0  Ireland    0
        NI        0  Denmark    1
	Spain	  5  Latvia	0
	Albania	  1  NI		2   
	Spain	  5  Lithuania  0
	Ireland   3  NI	        0
	Denmark	  1  Spain      0
	Lithuania 3  Albania    1
        Denmark   2  Latvia     0
	Ireland   1  Denmark    1
	Spain     3  NI         1
	Latvia    0  Albania    0
        Lith.     0  NI         1
        Albania   1  Ireland    2
    	Lithunia  0  Spain      2
   	Latvia    1  NI         2
    	Denmark   4  Albania    0
	Latvia    0  Ireland    2
        Lithuania 0  Ireland    1

Still to come..

25/8/93		Denmark v Lithuania		
8/9/93		Albania v Denmark
		ROI v Lithuania
		NI v Latvia
22/9/93		Albania v Spain
13/10/93	ROI v Spain
		Denmark v NI
17/11/93	Spain v Denmark
		NI v ROI

    Another strong, professional performance by the Irish team. All are
    delighted with the two points safely in the bag. However, our
    inability to score a couple of goals is starting to be a point of
    concern for me. Although the opposition did pack their defense, I
    felt Ireland could have done more in the first 25 mins of the second
    half to create more scoring opportunities. Apart from the Phelan and Keane
    runs and Staunton's effort there was precious little else despite
    Irelands dominance.
    
    However, all said and done, it is great to have the two points and to
    be sitting on top of the group table. It is time to think of greater
    achievements and to that end, we have to score goals, especially when
    we come up against stronger opposition.
    
    Keith.

Although I have never been a critic of Ireland's long ball game (preferring 
a win, no matter how achieved), I must say that some of the football they 
have played in their qualifying matches has been delightful. Yesterday was 
a case in point, play switching, along the ground, from one side of the 
pitch to the other, backheels and flicks from Aldrige, Quinn, Keane... it 
was a joy to watch.

I also feel that Staunton is perhaps our most valuable player, always 
available for the ball, always making intelligent runs, although his final 
pass can be a bit wayward at times. Was he booked yesterday? It wasn't 
clear from the television whether it was he or Houghton. He would be a big 
loss for our next match.

McGrath will be missed too, but as long as Irwin and Phelan are playing, I 
don't think his loss will be too great, as their pace will cover for Moran 
and Kernaghan.

It's looking good now for the USA. Here's hoping, but I'm certainly not 
counting any chickens yet.

Both ITV and BBC teletext had a quote from Big Jack, saying "I don't mind the
Danes but I can't stand the Spanish. This win puts pressure on them, and that's
great" (or words to that effect).

What's the story here: is this some deep-rooted childhood psychosis?

Mike

I left Chatham St. in Reading yesterday amidst chants of a few hundred Ole's and
La La La LA LA America, Guinness and Tayto.  The gathering featured the 
mandatory green shirts, Celtic SHirts and one "United are magic" green and 
yellow strip (there's always one!).  It was a tense affair on the big screen 
with the failure to score a second goal delaying the celebrations till the final 
whistle. The second loudest cheer of the day was reserved for the welcome return
of ROnnie WHelan.

On the game itself, it's a long time since we got so much quality ball in behind
the oppositions defence but scoring chances were wasted either due to poor 
quality  low crosses or failure of the forwards to arrive.  We must have put 
close on a dozen crosses from the end line across the box.  Where was Aldo..
these chances should have been bread and butter to him.  Even Cascarino looks
a better all-round player despite the clash of styles with QUinn. I agree that
the failure to convert chances is worrying and this same defect was our downfall
in failing to qualify for the EUropean championship where we did the business
away but failed to put away quality opposition at home.  There's no room for
complacency.

My fears around bookings were realised, although better to miss the next game than
the one against SPain.  Did Staunton get booked for a quick free in the last
minute?  If he did, is this a new rule?  He was my MOM with a great display and
he is forging a great link with Terry Phelan.  On the debit side, we attacked
down the left and ROy Keane had a very quiet second half as a result.  If 
Staunton is suspended, it may open the door for Whelan, but who knows?  

It all boils down to beating Spain at home.

Shane

p.s I wonder if Setanta are showing Dublin Vs Meath in Reading -:)

    
    I agree with the general consensus that it was a great result, but I
    don't agree that it was a great performance. Jack must have paid
    Dunphy's car insurance because the guy was raving about a mediocre
    game which had a pattern very much along the lines of the Egyptian game 
    at Italia '90. 
    They packed defence, tried to score on the break and
    although we had most of the ball we scarcely looked like scoring.
    As was mentioned before our recent inability to score was blatently 
    obvious yesterday. Yes the Lithuanians packed defence (and a bloody 
    good job they did of it) but that is no excuse. We had the game by the
    throat but we never finished it off.
    Phelan, Staunton and Irwin were inspired. Their runs and crosses from
    each wing would have put the fear of god in any defence ,other than the
    Lithuanians, who dealt with each cross in a matter of fact way. And
    that in my opinion is the distressing part. Yes the tactic was executed
    well, but it just didn't get the result and when it didn't work we
    failed to try another avenue of attack i.e by sending players through 
    the defence and trying and break the off side trap. 
    But then they didn't play an off side trap as can be seen from the 
    Stats. (3 off sides in the whole game and all of those in the last 10 mins. 
    when Quinn was too knackered to retreat quickly enough).
    I firmly believe that we would not have won that game without devine
    intervention i.e that flukie goal and that we could just haave easily
    have lost it if their strikers had been a bit more experienced.
    
    It looks like we're on our way to the U.S but let's hope we start to
    score more fluently before then and also that we start to deviate from
    a set pattern of play when things aren't working. You can't flog a dead
    horse !
    
    Peter (An Impartial Celt)
      

    We'll probably qualify for U.S. but I think we have serious problems in
    front of goal. Surely it's clear that one good cross from the by-line
    (e.g. Irwin for Aldridge against Latvia) is a good as a dozen floated
    "crosses" from inside the half on either flank?
    
    Paul

    I wouldnt worry about it too much....these boys have had a long season
    and should have been on their hols a month ago. They got the goal and
    after that, I felt, they relaxed a bit. They didnt seem to be desparate
    to get a second. 
    Some of the crossing was good, but hitting a low ball into 3 defenders
    is not the way to get the ball up to Quinn's head. We hit many low ball
    crosses yesterday, and they were invariably cleared by the near -post
    defenders. Funnily enough, a low hard ball caused the goal!
    
    Having followed the team since I was a young New Ross lad of 14 coming up
    to Dublin to see Ireland destroy Russia 3 - 0 in 1974, I have seen us
    get our fair share of the bad breaks. Liam Brady's debut, DOn Givens
    hat-trick....what a day. We shouldnt complain that we get a bit of
    fortune. Fortune always follows the best teams.
    
    *Tiger*
    Well pleased with the win. It means that we nearly have to *try* not to
    qualify now, we're almost certain.

We're not there yet. The following sequence of (not improbable) results 
would see us lose out on goal difference (i.e. we could beat Lithuania and 
draw with Spain at home and still not qualify).

25/8/93		Denmark  3	Lithuania  0
8/9/93		Albania	 0	Denmark	   3
		ROI	 2	Lithuania  0
		NI	 3	Latvia     0
22/9/93		Albania	 0	Spain      3
13/10/93	ROI	 0	Spain      0 
		Denmark	 3	NI         0
17/11/93	Spain	 2	Denmark    1 
		NI	 1	ROI        0

Which would give...

                         P  W  D  L  F  A  PTS
    Spain		12  7  4  1 23  3   18
    Denmark             12  7  4  1 19  3   18
    Ireland		12  7  4  1 17  3   18
    N. Ireland		12  6  2  4 15 15   14
    Lithuania		12  2  3  7  8 20    7
    Latvia		12  0  5  7  4 22    5
    Albania            	12  1  2  9  5 26    4
    
Of course, if Denmark were to win their matches 2-0, instead of 3-0, then 
we would go through. Or, a draw or win for Denmark in Seville would also 
send us through.

It's still all to play for, but it's in our own hands (as it is for Spain 
and Denmark).

Michael.

re: -1 and if me aunt had balls she'd be me uncle!

    Mick,
    
    	after reading -1 , I feely terrible depressed....8^(((((
    
    *Tiger*

    I read in todays Irish Times that the Spanish Football Federation
    offered to pay money to The Lithuanians to assist them field their
    strongest team yesterday.
    
    Apparently, the three Lithuanian stars could not get a release to play
    from their Austrian club without the correct insurance payments. The
    Lithuanians couldnt afford the Insurance, so the Spaniards offered to
    pay. According to the report, the Lithuanians had accepted the offer,
    but they couldnt get the money & insurance organised in time for the
    kick -off.
    
    I think this sucks. The Spanish should get points deducted for this
    type of conduct. To Quote Djackis Ciarltons "I cant stand Spain".
    I wondered why he said that, now I know. If Stev Staunton and Ray
    Houghton can get booked for taking free-kicks too quickly, Spain should
    be hammered for this low form of bribery.
    
    *Tiger*

Dunphy (Eamonn that is) made a few 'classic' comments
last night. One of the more interesting one's was that
if England don't qualify and assuming we finish top of
our group, we would be one of the six seeded countries,
and would be probably based in Boston. Since Dunphy
didn't have much to go overboard with when knocking
the team he instead went overboard in praising it 
predicting that only an inform Brazil or Germany could 
beat us, however his point about the seeding could 
prove interesting especially if FIFA try to seed the US.

(Dunphy for the uninitiated is a TV presenter over here).

Fintan.

    For the uninitiated Dunphy is a lot of things.
    
    Paul

    
>> only an inform Brazil or Germany could beat us
    
    That may very well be true, but are we capable of *beating* the 
    superior nations of world football without a penalty shootout ?
    (We always seem to draw)  
    Having three points for a win should hopefully do to the Irish game 
    what the abolishion of the backpass did to it during qualification
    i.e We will keep the ball away from Packie/Alan, the players will
    express themselves more and will have to score at *every* opportunity. 
    Draws just aren't good enough any more (especially when we
    are *so* capable of winning the World Cup)!
    
    
    Peter(An Impartial Celt)
                                                                

			Lithuania 0 Republic of Ireland 1

Ireland took a giant step towards qualifying for the world cup finals with a
narrow victory in Vilnius.  Lithuania are the best of the so called weaker
nations in this group and they provided a stern test.

Lithuania started better and a vital Terry Phelan tackle denied them an early
opportunity.  Ireland gradually gained the upper hand but the home side were
always dangerous on the break.  Alan Kernaghan almost opened the scoring
with a 20 yard shot that was well saved by Martinkenas.  Roy Keane did beat
the keeper but his effort was stopped on the line by a defender.  The
breakthrough came 5 minutes before the interval.  Stephen Staunton took a free
kick on the right.  Bultusnikas tried to prevent the ball reaching Niall
Quinn but he only succeeded in diverting it into his own net.  Steve has
already claimed the goal and few will argue.  Ireland pounded the Lithuanian
goal for the remainder of the first half but the insurance goal did not arrive.

The second half began as the first had ended with Ireland clearly on top.  Many
chances were spurned and Lithuania gradually came back into the game,  for
most of the 3rd quarter Martinkenas stood between his team and a heavy
defeat.  Lithuania were unlucky not to equalise when Bultusnikas sent a 35 
yard free kick goalwards, the ball rebounded off the inside of the post, hit
Packie Bonner and was headed off the line by Alan Kernaghan.  This shocked
Ireland and it was a very cautious last 15 minutes.  Lithuania came forward 
in search of an equaliser but Ireland defended well and held on for 2 points 
that we just about deserved.  The only disappointments were the bookings
of Paul McGrath and Ray Houghton.  Paul McGrath now misses the return game.

The celebrations afterwards were the best since Genoa.  This result means we
are very likely to qualify.  It hadn't been easy.  Some of us had made our 
2nd trip to the Baltics in a week.  More had endured 9 days of traveling all 
over the former Soviet Union or the Nordic countries.  The heavy rain had
soaked every one of us but nobody cared.  "Going to the USA", "Singing in
the rain" and "Taylor must stay" were sung along with the usual repetoire.
Alan Kernaghan was the fans choice as man of the match.  Terry Phelan and
Steve Staunton were in contention.

Ireland need 4 points to ensure qualification.  3 points should suffice.
If we win the return match in September a draw with Spain would then
virtually guarantee us qualification.  A victory would send Denmark and
ourselves through.  Otherwise Spain v Denmark in Seville looks likely to
be a crunch game.  Hopefully we'll be winning the group the same night in
Belfast.

Team:
Bonner,Irwin,Phelan,Kernaghan,McGrath,Houghton,Keane,Townsend,Staunton,
Aldridge(sub Whelan 65),Quinn


Rep. of Ireland	9  6 3 0  15  2 15
Spain		9  5 3 1  18  2 13
Denmark		8  4 4 0   9  1 12
N. Ireland	9  4 2 3  11 11 10
Lithuania      10  2 3 5   8 15  7
Latvia	       11  0 5 6   4 19  5
Albania	       10  1 2 7   5 20  4


To play 

25/8/93		Denmark v Lithuania		
8/9/93		Albania v Denmark
		ROI v Lithuania
		NI v Latvia
22/9/93		Albania v Spain
13/10/93	ROI v Spain
		Denmark v NI
17/11/93	Spain v Denmark
		NI v ROI

	Well not too long before the next game, about 7 weeks.
	With all the talk about the the US I wonder if our man deployed
	way over there somewhere in that wide open space could enlighten me
	(and others) on what sort of prices tickets will be??

	I heard that it will be a few hundred quid to see the first three
	matches. A bit steep dont ya think???

	And how will the tickets be distributed for the european teams??
	Given to the FA??

    
    In the second round of ticket sales in June you had to pay around $355
    (that's about 234 pounds sterling) for 4 first-round games plus one
    second-round game - so that's about 47pounds a game. The first round
    when I got my tickets was cheaper and I would expect the thrid and
    final U.S residents only round in September to be a little dearer.
    
    I guess you'll be looking for one of the team packages as opposed to
    a stadium packages - the last communication I had with the ticket
    people said they hadn't set a price for those tickets yet. You could
    call 1-800-769-1994 and see if they'll tell you but make sure you put
    on a fake american accent cos otherwise they don't seem to want to talk
    to you!
    
    I'd budget for around 50 pounds per game.
    
    Shouldn't this discussion be in note 87
    
    Regards,
    
    Andrew.D.wicks 

Good day to ya,
	Well I knew there was a topic for this but I was using the wrong
	search string.

	As for the tickets I'll probably budget for 50 pounds per ticket.

	As for me putting on an american, did you ever stop to think what it
	would sound like coming from someone who has a half cockney, half
	Irish accent!!! Not very convincing....People find it hard to understand
	me as it is!!


Mick

    G'day lads,
    		50 pounds!!!!!
    
    	I went to Italia '90, got tickets off touts and believe you me,
    they were throwing them away for some matches at about a quarter the
    face value. And this was in that soccer heaven, Italy.
    
    	So if you're there, and want to risk not getting in, which happened
    to me at Scotland V. Sweden in Genova, just get 'em off the touts.
    
    Remember, USA is a soccer illiterate country.
    
    Ica, predicting Australia 3 Canada 0, we've got them on toast without
    Bosnich, we don't need him.

    Thanks for telling us what we already knew.
    
    
    
    
    Gary

    
    The IFA recently advertised in the Belfast papers.  You can purchase
    tickets
    for both their remaining qualifiers v Latvia Sep 8th and RoI Nov 17th.
    Tickets are priced #10 & #12 but must be purchased for both games. 
    Still
    STG#20 is not bad to see the Irish game considering it's #25 or #30 for
    the
    equivalent seat at Lansdowne for the Lithuania game.
    
    Anyway if you want tickets you must apply before August 20th enclosing
    full
    or 50% remittance to
    
    Irish Football Association
    20, Windsor Avenue,
    Belfast BT9 6EE
    Northern Ireland.
    
    Don't bother using a southern address as you'll be turned down.  I
    applied for
    a block booking last year but I then reapplied from a Belfast address
    and
    got it.
    
    BTW I'd recommend applying for #10 lower deck North stand tickets. 
    They charge
    extra for the upper decks and I prefer the view from the lower deck. 
    The
    north stand is the new stand, opposite the cameras.
    
    Gary.

    re .335
    
    England Boys may be here....and thats exactly where you'll be
    staying!!!
    
    We'll send ye back some post-cards....
    
    8^))))))))))))))))
    
    *Tiger*

    
    Denmark 4 Lithuania 0
    
    
    Great result for the Danes.  It's getting tighter at the top.
    
    
                    Group 3
                                       GP    W    D    L    GF    GA   Pts 
    
                    Ireland             9    6    3    0    15     2    15  
    
                    Denmark             8    5    4    0    13     1    14  
           
                    Spain               9    5    3    1    18     2    13  
           
                    N. Ireland          9    4    2    3    11    11    10  
    
                    Lithuania          10    2    3    6     8    19     7  
    
                    Latvia             11    0    5    6     4    19     5   
    
                    Albania            10    1    2    7     5    20     4   
    
    
                    Group 3
                            08.09.93: Albania-Denmark
                            08.09.93: Ireland-Lithuania
                            08.09.93: N. Ireland-Latvia
                            22.09.93: Albania-Spain
                            13.10.93: Denmark-N. Ireland
                            13.10.93: Ireland-Ireland
                            17.11.93: N. Ireland-Ireland
                            17.11.93: Spain-Denmark
         

    
slight change to the table    
    
                    Group 3
                                       GP    W    D    L    GF    GA   Pts 
    
                    Ireland             9    6    3    0    15     2    15  
    
                    Denmark             9    5    4    0    13     1    14  
           
                    Spain               9    5    3    1    18     2    13  
           
                    N. Ireland          9    4    2    3    11    11    10  
    
                    Lithuania          11    2    3    6     8    19     7  
    
                    Latvia             11    0    5    6     4    19     5   
    
                    Albania            10    1    2    7     5    20     4   
    
    
                    Group 3
                            08.09.93: Albania-Denmark
                            08.09.93: Ireland-Lithuania
                            08.09.93: N. Ireland-Latvia
                            22.09.93: Albania-Spain
                            13.10.93: Denmark-N. Ireland
                            13.10.93: Ireland-Ireland
                            17.11.93: N. Ireland-Ireland
                            17.11.93: Spain-Denmark
         

    Things are looking good for Ireland from .-1.
    
    
    -  At least we're pretty much guaranteed a win on 13-10-93 !!!
    
    
    
    Jerry.

    ye had me worried for a minute, Gary. I thought the Danes had a game in
    hand!!!!
    
    When are the lights being switched on in Landsdowne Road? Are any of
    the last 2 games being played at night??
    
    *Tiger*

    
    > When are the lights being switched on in Landsdowne Road? Are any of
    >the last 2 games being played at night??
    
    They should be ready for October but as ITV decide the kick off times
    for our games both matches kick off at 2.45pm.
    
    Denmark's 4 goals make a differnce.  It looks like 3 points will not be
    enough now.
    
    Gary.

Gary,

3 points may be enough...the key is beating Spain for both Ireland and 
Denmark.  One defeat and their max is 17 with little opportunity to really 
improve their goal difference.  

SHane

    I have always regarded Spain as a good footballing nation and I have
    enjoyed their football at club level.But after the stunt they tried in
    trying to pay to get Lituanias three most valuable players back to play
    against R.O.I was in my opinion cheating.It is because of this that I
    hope Spain do not qualify.In fact I think FIFA should do something
    about it to prevent it happening in the future.
    
    Here's hoping the Republic of Ireland and Denmark qualify and Spain get
    what they deserve.
    
    
    Regards,
    
    Anthony.
    "
    -

    re - ??  ITV decide kick off times :-)
    
    Is ITV carrying the Ireland Lithuania game ?
    
    Feargal.

    The match between Ireland and Lithuania is being shown live by network
    2 ,and my understanding is that ITV are also showing it live.Kick off
    is at 2:45pm.
    
    
    
    
    Regards,
    
    Anthony.
    "
    -

    Any news of injuries in the Irish team to play Lithuania.
    
    Regards,
    
    Anthony.
    "
    -

    Cooooooommmmeee oooon ye boys in Green
    	       Come on ye boys in Green
    	       Come on ye boys
    	       Come on ye boys in Green
    	       Come on ye boys in Green
    	       Come on ye boys in Green
    	       Come on ye boys
    	       Come on ye boys in Green!!!!
    
    						5-0 to the Republic....
    						Ray....

    re: -1  original or watt!
    
    Back to football.
    Someone post the team. Drop Aldo.
    
    Shane

    Looks like the team is going to be something like this.
    
                  
                               BONNER
    
            IRWIN            KERRNIHAN           PHELAN
                               MORAN
    
    
       HOUGHAN        KEANE       TOWNSEND        STAUNTON
    
    
                      QUINN      ALDRIDGE
    
    
    SUBS-)PROBABLE....ALAN KELLY,DAVID KELLY,TONY CASCARINO,RONNIE WHELAN,
                      EDDIE McGOLDRICK
    
    
    
    
    REGARDS,
    
    
    ANTHONY.
    "
    -
    

	He's suspended...

    
    I think there's a doubt about Townsend. If he can't play, Ronnie will
    take his place.
    
    Denis.

    130.353 had David Kelly as a sub - I am sure that he is currently out
    of the Wolves team, injured.

Kelly played on Sunday - he didn't look any more injured than he usually does! 
(Bull went off with an injury)

g

    Accoding to todays paper Townsend will be fit to play tommorrow.Also
    Paul McGrath will be watching the from the high stool in Taaffes
    singing The Green Fields Of France.Nice one Paul see you in there.
    
    
    CORKY
    

    Sorry to keep harping on but there are a lot of anxious Irish guy's
    here in Ayr desperate to know for sur if UTV ar carrying the game live
    or not . Can someone with a tv guide covering utv please confirm or
    can someone in Northern Ireland post the phone number for utv .
    
    thanks in advance

    
    UTV's number is 0232-328122.
    
    I assume they are showing the game live as ITV have bought the rights
    and decided the kick off time.  Otherwise the game could have kicked
    off at 5pm and thus failitated the fans who work in Dublin.  An early
    kick off suits me but most would prefer a later kick off.
    
    Gary.

    
    Anyoine hear the Irish team for tomorrow?  It's supposed to be
    announced around now.
    
    Gary.

    I just got off the phone with UTV (thanks , Gary !!) and the girl in
    the scheduling office confirmed that their coverage starts at 2:30 and
    ends at 4:40 
    
    I feel a half day coming on :-)

    The Oirish game is being shown live in Munich at the SHAMROCK pub. He
    gets all the games live (the All-Ireland finals too if yer
    interested). 
    
    A more private viewing of the England thrashing will take place in the
    comfort of a Man City supporters home :-)
    
    - Robin

    out of interest - why isn't John sheridan in the team or at least the
    squad. Surely eddie mcgoldrick can't be picked ahead of him?
    
    Regards,
    
    Andrew.D.Wicks

    
    If anyone is interested
    
    The Rep Of Ireland versus Lithuania is live on Granada today at 2.30pm
    
    mac

         <<< Note 130.366 by WOTVAX::MACDONALDI "Stalybridge Celtic" >>>
                                -< On the box >-

    
    If anyone is interested
    
    The Rep Of Ireland versus Lithuania is live on Granada today at 2.30pm
    
    mac

    Does anyone have any news on the team.Is Townsend playing.

    re -1   I think Townsend's in
    Lithuania are without seven of their first-teamer's. This should be a
    goal-fest. Hope I haven't put the mockers on them....
    ole ole etc.etc.
    Ray

Ireland team:

	Bonner
	Irwin
	Kernaghan
	Moran
	Phelan
	Houghton
	Townsend
	Keane
	Staunton
	Quinn
	Aldridge

i.e - the same as it always is!

Oh, and I believe the game's on ITV if anyone hadn't heard!!

g

	Any chance of a progress report as it happens?
	No access to a TV over here.

	Cheers Sean.

    I have it on the radio now so i Will keep you all updated...
    
    
    
    
    
    Gary

    Ireland      1             Lithuania       0
    Aldridge 4
    
    
    
    
    
    
    Gary

1-0 to Ireland afer 3 mins 

Aldridge from Staunton cross (shot?).

2-0 Ireland after 25 mins

Alan Kernaghan

	THE GAME SHOULD BE OVER NOW, IS 2-0 THE FINAL SCORE?

	COM'MON THE LADS.......

	Cheers Sean.

Yep - 2-0 is the final score.   Lithuania could have gad
couple in the second half.   Jack was interviewed after the game
and said it was the "worst display by Ireland for a long time".
Also, when asked if he saw anything positive in the Irish
performance, his reply was a curt "No!."

Bye for now.

    Fingers crossed.  Denmark are losing 1-0 in Albania (per my teletext!)
    
    I think they're in the second half.  (I didn't realize they were
    playing today?)
    
    Shane

    Shane,
    
    Northern ireland are also playing Latvia today.
    
    regards,
    
    Andrew.D.Wicks

	N.Ireland V Latvia

	This will not have any bearing on the competition, having said that, 
	Billy's Boys are looking for a convincing win to boost their current 
	good form even further.

    Can you believe it?  The BBC now says that Denmark won 1-0.  Now how
    could they win 1-0 if Albania were 1 up?  Is this a joke -;)
    
    So much for the BBC.
    
    Shane

  I didn't see the game on TV, but I was hoping for a few more goals to boost
our goal difference. In five weeks we'll have a better picture, I just hope we
can go to Belfast already qualified. Can someone post the current table please.

                                                                 -dave-

    <<< Note 130.382 by KBOMFG::TANNER "U2 are Numbed!!!!!!!!!!!" >>>
                                -< A win is a win.... >
                                   ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
    hear, hear
    we couldn't play as badly as yesterday two games in a row....
    prediction time   RoI 1  Spain 0
    and we're there
    Ray....
    

Group 3
-------            GP    W    D    L    GF    GA   Pts 
Ireland            10    7    3    0    17     2    17  
Denmark            10    6    4    0    14     1    16  
Spain               9    5    3    1    18     2    13  
N. Ireland         10    5    2    3    13    11    12  
Lithuania          12    2    3    7     8    21     7  
Latvia             12    0    5    7     4    21     5   
Albania            11    1    2    8     5    21     4   
    
To  Play 

22 Sep Albania v Spain
13 Oct Denmark v N Ireland
       Ireland v Spain
17 Nov N Ireland v Ireland
       Spain v Denmark
         

    The result is all that matters:-
    
    Ireland      2       Lithuania     0
    Scouser 4min
    Geordie 23min
    
    
    Great interview with Andy Townsend on radio this morning:-
    
    "we di'nt pliiy very wewell, the leds dan bayd"
    
    
    
    I can never get the hang of that Cork accent...
    
    Sla�nte.....Ned

    get that smug grin off your face Ned

    I think wor Jackie's after match comments were something else too
    (but not as good as his during match intstructions from the dug out):-
    
    Wi showd nee imaginashun....wi jus' howked the baal up ti Kwin 'n
    Kaska...Koska..(hoo d'ya saay tha'?) an' hoept..."
    
    
    
    I wonder who they learned that from???????
    
    Ned......just-another-Ashington-lad

	I Think we're fairly safe now.
	It will probably all boil down to the Spain-Denmark game.

	Still can't see England qualifying.

	Op.Timist

 

		Republic of Ireland 2 Lithuania 0

This game certainly failed to live up to pre-match expectations.  Jack Charlton
had cautioned the fans not to expect a goalfeast but everyone approaching 
Lansdowne Road was in a confident mood.  Lithuania were short seven first team
regulars and even their manager admitted they were here to keep the score
down.  Not only did they keep the score down but they will feel a little
cheated that it wasn't a bit closer.  Packie Bonner made three good saves in 
the second half to save Ireland.  This will probably go down as our most 
disappointing victory ever, eclipsing a 2-1 home success over Luxembourg which 
eventually lead to qualification for Euro 88.

The game began so well.  Steve Staunton drove a hard cross into the box and 
John Aldridge finished with aplomb.  The game was barely four minutes old and
we were one up.  Ireland pressed forward but spurned many good opportunities.
The second goal arrived after 25 minutes.  Denis Irwin floated over a corner,
Kevin Moran's downward header was brilliantly cleared off the line only for
Alan Kernaghan to head in the resultant cross.  Kernaghan was one of the few
Irish players to emerge with any credit from the game.

Ireland died after the second goal.  The long ball game which had been more
or less abandoned was back in fashion.  A succession of aimless balls were 
pumped into the box.  Lithuania had been totally over-run but they came into 
the game and played all the football.  Stumbits ran the midfield as Keane
and Townsend were chasing shadows.  Poor finishing and good goalkeeping cost
the Lithuanians a consolation goal and they may well feel that a full strength
side would have taken a point.


		Northern Ireland 2 Latvia 0

It's a measure of the difference between the two national football teams on 
this island that Northern Ireland were very happy with a 2 goal victory over 
Lithuania's weaker neighbours Latvia.  Jimmy Quinn broke the deadlock after
35 minutes with a headed goal.  Northern Ireland had most of the play and 
had another Quinn goal disallowed for pushing by Ian Dowie.  Philip Gray
snatched the second 9 minutes from time.  Billy Bingham was very happy
with the performance.  Northern Ireland are now eliminated from the competition 
barring a series of incredible results.

		Albania 0 Denmark 1

Frank Pingel hit a 63rd minute winner to give Denmark 2 vital world cup 
points.  Albania played very well and caused numerous problems particularly in
the first half.  Michael Laudrup and Kim Vilfort also had good chances for the
Danes.  Celtic defender Rudi Vata almost became the toast of Ireland when he
headed against a post in the last minute but Denmark held on to register a 
vital victory.

Standings and Analysis

Ireland are still in pole position.  The results yesterday mean that Ireland
now require 2 points from 2 games to be mathematically certain of qualifying.
The goal difference advantage we have enjoyed over Denmark is likely to be
lost when the Danes entertain Northern Ireland next month.  A victory over
Spain would make it all academic and send Ireland and Denmark to the United
States.  A draw on October 13th would leave all three countries in a nervous
situation.  

Denmark need to win at home to Northern Ireland and draw in Seville to qualify.
A 3 goal victory over Northern Ireland would mean that a defeat in Seville
may still be enough if the Republic lose in Belfast.

Spain need to win in Albania, draw in Dublin and beat Denmark in Seville.
A victory in Dublin is of no real advantage to Spain as they would still have 
to beat Denmark to be sure of qualifying.  Spain also face a potentially
hazardous trip to Albania on September 22nd where both the Republic and Denmark
have struggled before obtaining narrow victories.

Northern Ireland need Albania and the Republic to beat Spain, Spain to beat
Denmark.  Then they need to win by six goals in Copenhagen and beat the
Republic in Belfast.  Even Roy of the Rovers couldn't pull that off.

                Group 3
                                   GP    W    D    L    GF    GA   Pts  MxPts
                Ireland            10    7    3    0    17     2    17   21
                Denmark            10    6    4    0    14     1    16   20
                Spain               9    5    3    1    18     2    13   19
                N. Ireland         10    5    2    3    13    11    12   16
                Lithuania          12    2    3    7     8    21     7    7
                Latvia             12    0    5    7     4    21     5    5
                Albania            11    1    2    8     5    21     4    6

                Group 3
                        22.09.93: Albania-Spain
                        13.10.93: Denmark-N. Ireland
                        13.10.93: Ireland-Spain
                        17.11.93: N. Ireland-Ireland
                        17.11.93: Spain-Denmark
      

    
    
    I thought the comments on the tannoy at Lansdowne yesterday were a
    disgrace.  The guy is normally pretty pathetic but this could incite
    racial hatred.
    
    He said something along the lines of
    
    "And of course England play Poland at Wembley tonight.  This is a game
    that will turn us all into Poles for a night"
    
    Such comments are okay from fans.  I wanted Poland to win as much as
    anyone else however they are not acceptable from an official.  The game
    was totally irrelevant from an Irish point of view.  I could imagine
    the outcry if something similar was said about us at Wembley.
    
    Gary.  

        
         The Irish make me laugh. The supporters love to see England
         lose which is stupid considering all the Irish boys support
         teams like Chelsea, West Ham, Leeds and Man Utd.  This is 
         double standards.  
    
         Baz

    re: .390
    
    >"And of course England play Poland at Wembley tonight.  This is a game
    >that will turn us all into Poles for a night"
    
    Well, all except John Aldridge. And Andy Townsend. And Paul McGrath.
    And Kevin Sheedy. And Tony Cascarino. And...
    
    Looks like some people have got big problems.
     

    Hey Gary.....racism is racism whether it comes from a fan or an
    official!!!
    
    Why did you want Poland to win? It doesn't benefit Ireland. In fact
    any demise of English soccer could be detrimental to Irish soccer, because
    Irish talent normally uses the English leagues as a platform.
    
    Regarding the outcry if the same happened at Wembley. You're right but
    the average Joe Soap in England (fans included) has no desire to see
    Ireland lose, so it's probably a moot point.
    
    Sla�nte....Ned

    Gary,
    
    See what you started?  
    
    If it's not broken.......
    
    ....don't fix it.
    
    Paul

    quote from Charlton in the Irish Times
    "We were banging in too many long balls"
    no, you are not hallucinating, he actually said that.
    
    
    ps.  re last few
    keep it up lads, its been so bloody boring in here lately. 
    Ray "Stir the ****" Howard

    
    It's not just the Irish who like to see England loose !
    
    I think it's a European/African/Asian/Austral-Asian/Outer
    Hebredian/Outer Mongolian/N.& S. American characteristic.
    
    Now why should that be ?
    
    Maybe everybody likes to see the greatest team in the world stuffed now
    and again and again and again and again...?
    
    Yeah that must be it 'cos as we all know, *they are the greatest !!!!*
    
    Peter(An Impartial Celt)

    
    Why do all foreigners sign their notes...
    
    'An impartial Celt'!!!???
    
    
    P.S. Joke alert, I'm kidding of course

    > It's not just the Irish who like to see England loose !
                                                      ^^^^^
    
    Is that loose as in laxative or the Celtic "there's a moose loose aboot
    this hoose" ???
    
    Ah...Education's a wonderful ting....so it is.
    
    Ned.....(Tramp Italian Celt) [anag.]

    re: .396
    
    >I think it's a European/African/Asian/Austral-Asian/Outer
    >Hebredian/Outer Mongolian/N.& S. American characteristic.
    
    Any proof of that? Or is it just your island/Ireland outlook on the
    world?
    
    Not trying to provoke argument (God knows, I've never been to Outer
    Mongolia), but the Italian commentators last night said that the idea
    of a World Cup without Holland "and especially England" didn't bear
    thinking about. Hooligans apart, of course.
    
    The Irish game wasn't televised, but the comments from the same
    individuals when they last showed an Ireland match was something to the
    tune of: "You can't begrudge them their (relative) sucess in recent years, 
    but from an entertainment point of view it's an all-time low for 
    football!"  
    
    Hmmm, nobody loves you but you don't care!

    RE .398
    
    Ned....(Tramp Italian Celt) [anag]
    
    I give up. What are you talking about?

    
    Mmmm, and I'm sure the Azurri have always been exciting and
    entertaining !!! 
    
    

    re: .401
    
    >Mmmm, and I'm sure the Azurri have always been exciting and
    >entertaining !!! 
    
    Oh, I couldn't agree more! Try telling that to them though!
    To be fair, the Azurri do seem to have shrugged off some of their less 
    entertaining habits, thanks to Sig. Sacchi.
    
    Anyway, I was simply trying to demonstrate that *some* people keep their 
    politics and their sport well apart. 
    
    Dom
     

	What's going on here lads?

	Thought this was the World Cup Group 3 Topic.

	Anyway we all know England are not going to qualify so why argue.


	Sean "Away the Lads"

    re .403
    
    If this is indeed the World Cup Group 3 Topic then why are you talking
    about England (again)? There's definitely some morbid fascination with
    England in this note.
    
    Your logic escapes me, please enlighten.
    
    Ned...a tick Geordie tettie howker

    
    Great performance last night, but if they fail to get a result in
    Holland last nights match will be forgotten, so I'm not getting to carried
    away. If they show the same commitment as they showed last night then
    some sort of result in Holland isn't out of the question.
    
    Neil...       

	RE:.404

	Well, I just like to get the last word in.

    
    Just 3 questions:
    
    1. Does anyone know the team for the match v. Spain?
    2. Are they showing the match on TV?
    3. Do you think Roy Keane played his best match for Eire against Spain
       or against Latvia?
    
    I think it's the buildup to each Eire match that keeps this conference
    alive - come on you Greens!
    
    Dom O'Turner
    
      

   Dom Iam sure there will be no major changes to the team with the exception of
Paul McGrath, but it all depends if the players stay free of injury. There are
no English league fixtures the weekend before which is a good bonus, and gives
the players a week to rest.  Iam sure the match is on TV but I think your in
Italy so I doubt if their showing there. Regarding Roy Keane, my personal
oppinion is the match against Spain, and I hope he repeats his performance next
month. Gary should answer that one for you he was at both games. (I think)


                                                   all the best.....


                                                        -dave-


                                                                      

    re: .408
    
    Back to serious mode.
    
    >Iam sure the match is on TV but I think your in Italy so I doubt if their 
    >showing there.
    
    You wanna bet? In Italy, they show  *everything! Israel v Turkey, Cyprus 
    v. San Marino...the lot! I should think that Eire v. Spain is a
    certainty (although it might be shown on the pay-TV channel). 
    
    Of course, all this is irrelevant if there happens to be an Italian
    Serie D match on the same day!
    
    Dom

    Ireland have some mouth-watering friendlies lined up prior to the world
    cup. According to this morning's paper we will have
    RoI v Norway	23 March 94
    Holland v RoI	24 April 94
    Germany v RoI	29 May 94
    RoI v Colombia	Date unknown
    and a rumour of a match against England as well....
    I suppose some of these won't be played if we draw them in the
    competition itself but they all look like great matches....

              <<< Note 130.391 by SUBURB::COMMIT "Commit Group" >>>
                   -< Why don't you support Derry and Cork >-

   
>>>The Irish make me laugh. The supporters love to see England
>>>lose which is stupid considering all the Irish boys support
>>>teams like Chelsea, West Ham, Leeds and Man Utd.  This is 
>>>double standards.  
    
   Baz

     I have been thinking about it and I would like to see England qualify
for the finals. I think they would be missed in the finals. There would then
be the added excitement of drawing them in one of the groups. Also most of
our players make their living in the English game and the potential Ronnie
Whelan's are snapped up by the English clubs so we shouldn't be too critical
of the England team. 
      
      C
      U
  C U N N O
      N 
      O

    
    	Well swipe me wiv a jellied eel, I can't believe I just read that!
    
    	Andy.

    Are Spain playing Albania tonight???
    
    Regards,
    
    Anthony.

    
    I would say Albania take on Spain tomorrow, 22/9.
    
    Hermann

    
    Out of date update from Tirana, 
    
    Albania 0 Spain 2 Salinas 5, Toni 25.
    
    Leave the champagne on ice for another few weeks.
    
    Gary.

	Is that Full Time???

    Albania 1  Spain 5

Albania 1    Spain 5



                   GP    W    D    L    GF    GA   Pts 

Ireland            10    7    3    0    17     2    17  

Denmark            10    6    4    0    14     1    16  

Spain              10    6    3    1    23     3    15  

N. Ireland         10    5    2    3    13    11    12  

Lithuania          12    2    3    7     8    21     7  

Latvia             12    0    5    7     4    21     5   

Albania            12    1    2    9     6    26     4   


    
To  Play 

13 Oct Denmark v N Ireland
       Ireland v Spain
17 Nov N Ireland v Ireland
       Spain v Denmark
         

    
    Interesting allegations from Tirana.  A Spanish official claimed that
    an agent for the Albanian players offered to throw the game.  The
    Spanish refused but then claimed that one or more countries in the
    group have already benefitted from bribing the Albanians.
    
    Now Denmark and Ireland both had lucky wins in Tirana.  Vata hit the
    post in the last minute of the Danish game and Ireland got a late
    winner.  I was at the Irish game and there is no way that the Albanians
    threw the game.  Anyway there is no way that either football
    association would bribe the Albanians.
    
    This begs the question who has the most to gain from making these
    allegations.  If mud could stick to either association then they would
    be banned from the tournament anf the 3rd place team in the group will
    qualify.  No prizes for guessing who are the hot favourites for 3rd
    place.  We may not have heard the last of this story.
    
    Gary.                                                   

    It would be extremely disappointing if Ireland was to be tarred with
    that particular brush. Hopefully the FAI will kill this quickly and let
    the football on 13th October do the talking. Spain were never going to
    fail against Albania, with or without bribes and the position is as it
    was. 
    
    Paul 

If ever there was an occasion to *THUMP* the SPaniards, then this is it.
They're really getting on my wick. Consider the attempt to buy in the 
Lithuanian stars for our game out there. Also remember bribes can be covert, 
etc...they need not take the form of actual cash changing hands. 

Heres hoping the Fighting Irish and the Great Danes can see them off.
Landsdowne on 13-Oct is going to be *THE* place to be.

Luv,

*Tiger*

    Tiger,
         I couldn't agree with you more.To see a team like Spain going to
    the world cup,after all their attempts at cheating,would be very bad
    for football.In fact if FIFA do not get any evidence to support this,
    they should stop Spain playing their remaining two games and give the
    points back to who ever lost points against them.The Spaniards have a
    history of bad sportsman ship.In their qualifying group for the last
    world cup they attacked the Irish F.A after Ireland beat them 1-0 in
    Lansdowne road.They claimed at the time that Ireland did not cut the
    grass in order to stop the Spanish playing,even though the grass
    lenght was inside FIFA regulations.
    
    Countries can not be allowed,or be seen to be allowed to get away with
    cheating.Otherwise it contradicts FIFA's teaching of fair play.
    
    
    Regards,
    
    Anthony.
    "
    -

	Some interesting accusations in the Irish Times this morning about
    	the "Spain-Albania" thing.
	3 of the the 5 first-choice defenders missing.
	Claims in SPANISH newspapers that the Spanish FA arrived in Tirana 
    	with a "gift" of 600 sports shirts, plus medical gear.
	Also the Dutch guy who owns the right to televise the Albanian games 
    	openly admits that he offered $1000 per man to the Albanians if they 
    	beat the Danish team....
	Ireland and Denmark need look no further than these few items for the
	motivation to hammer the Spaniards, (which they will do, anyway).
    
    		Ray....(an impartial etc,etc,)

    
    I wonder will the Spaniards offer "gifts" to the ref in charge
    of the Irish match.
    
    Denis.

    I read today in the Irish Independant that Spanish officials are to
    inspect Lansdowne Rd today in a bid to try and have the match
    rescheduled to a different time or to have it moved to a different
    location.This is disgraceful and should not be allowed go ahead.In my
    oppinion the Spanish are digging their own graves.The more they carry
    on with this childishness the more hostile the Lansdowne faithful will
    become not to mention how much more determined the Irish team will be.
    
    I am amazed that the Spanish are allowed to to carry on in this
    fashion.Other teams have been penalised for less.
    
    
    Regards,
    
    Anthony.
    "
    -

  Re .425
    
  >>>  I am amazed that the Spanish are allowed to to carry on in this
  >>>  fashion.Other teams have been penalised for less.
    
    
       Not being funny but can you name one team that have been penalised
       for less.
    
       Baz

    I can.
    
    Regards,
    
    Anthony.
    "
    -
    

         
         .427
    
            
                Go on then.
    
    
       
    
    
    
    
          Warburtong

    Spain were.
    
    
    Anthony.
    

    Maybe he can't name one.
    
    
    
    Gary

    I meant teams other that R.O.I.
    So there.
    
    
    Regards.
    
    Anthony.
    "
    -

>                     <<< Note 130.432 by GAOV10::MURPHY >>>
>                           -< Na Na NA Na Na....... >-
>
>    I meant teams other that R.O.I.
>    So there.
    
    It's not what you said - see below :-
    
>Note 130.425              World Cup qualifying Group 3                425 of 432
>GAOV10::MURPHY                                       17 lines  29-SEP-1993 10:10
>                -< Still a nasty little team,them Spanish.... >-
    
>    I am amazed that the Spanish are allowed to to carry on in this
>    fashion.Other teams have been penalised for less.
    
    Terry
    

    Anthony......
    
    The have caught you!..... so now you must do the following!
    
    1. place foot in mouth.... 
    
    2. start to swallow!...
    
    NP    (:^)

    YEAH,they may have caught me but I still dislike the Spanish F.A.
    
    Anyway.
    
    
    GULPGULPGULPGULPGULPGULP..........
    
     
    What I meant to say was .....I'm sure other teams have been punished
    for less.
    So there.
    
    
    Regards,
    
    Anthony.
    "
    -

	Don't worry Anthony, there's some people out here that know what
	you meant.

	Se�n

    It's funny how this note always comes back to the same theme:-
    
    We hate you cos we hate you.....
    
    Let's stick to footie.
    
    Sla�nte....Ned

Anthony, A Chara,

Dont mind those British People slagging you. *We* (the ones that are going to 
the USA) Knew what you meant. Imagine what they're going to be like when we 
qualify and they dont.....

As regards the Spaniards, I believe they will become the first team to play 
at Landsdowne Road that will be booed on and off the pitch. Nows the time for
revenge.

No Problems,

*Tiger*

    
    Gee, if that's all it takes to "slag off" the Irish, I think we'd all
    best stand back and make this an Irish Only note (my grandparents are
    all from Cork/Tipperary, so I might just slither in and out every now
    and then...on match days, say).
    
    Now, as one of those who "didn't know what he meant", how about a bit
    of enlightening?
    
    By the way, I'm glad *we* haven't drawn the Spanish - not because of
    any particular fear of foul play on their part, but because if an
    Englishman ever complained about an opposing nation in this way, all
    hell would break loose!
    
    Dom
    
    P.S.
    And to think I was under the impression that there was this tremendous
    bond of friendship between the Irish and the Spanish, dating back to
    the Spanish Civil War (if not the Spanish Armada...), Bernard O'Higgins
    in South America, etc. 

re -1 
Perhaps I should have inserted a smiley on -2....I certainly intended to.

Dom, no offence intended. We Irish are well used to slaggin'...it's the most 
popular form of communications over here. EG, If you meet a long lost friend 
in a strange bar, you would not rush up, shake his hand and shout; "John, its 
GREAT to see ya"..

No WAY.. The proper method is to wander over to him, give him a big punch on 
the upper arm, and say "Well, howaya ya big boll*x, its your round. You owe 
me a pint from last Christmas, ya mean sh*te"...

...or something like that.

BTW, Good Luck against Holland, ye'll need it...8^)

*Tiger*

    Tiger, a Chara,
                Thank you for your words of encouragement at these times.
    It is not often that whole nations have stood up for one another to
    stop the English slagging me off for slagging the Spanish.If that
    wasn,t bad enough they had to go back a few hundred years to remember
    something they won(Spanish Armada).I don't think they would have even
    won that only for the Spanish had a strong wind against them in the
    first half and they never really recovered from it.And their talking
    about us digging up the past...cheek...
    
    Anyway all bonding between us and the Spanish is off until we stop them
    qualifying,Dom.
    
    
    
    Slan Leat,a Chara,
    
    Go n'eiri an bothair leat.
    
    
    Regards,
    
    Anthony
    "
    -
    

    
    Re .440
    
    Tiger,
    
    that explains why you smacked me in the gob when I was in Dublin, and
    there was me thinking it was because of the abuse I gave out when
    Ireland never got to Sweden.......
        
    :-)
    
    Paul

Paul,

If I may explain to the masses who werent there ....

Mr Watterson arrived in the ESB in Dublin to fix a Scheduling problem. I 
arrived on site for my usual weekly site visit ( the usual thing, drink 
coffee, have a few smokes, talk about Football etc etc)...I was then 
introduced to this big Moth*r who had flown in from the UK. So relieved was I 
to be able to dump the Scheduler problem on said Mr. Watterson that I gave 
him a friendly thump on the arm. He smiled back , so I think he enjoyed it.

Just in case any of you think I go around thumping people all the time.

8^)

*Tiger*

    Tiger,
         I'm curious.Why only a friendly thump????
    
    
    
    Slan
    
    Anthony.

well,


he hadnt fixed the problem at that stage, so I decided to be nice.

8^)

*Tiger*

    
    Please tone down the anti Spanish notes.  It's beginning to sound like
    racism.
    
    As for the game, it will become a war.  Spain simply cannot afford to
    lose.  We need something to get the crowd going anyway as the
    atmosphere hasn't been the same since the last Spanish game.  Too many
    tickets have gone to the corporate yuppies in recent years.
    
    Gary.

    Couldn't agree with you more Gary.This rambling on about these Spanish
    guys is getting on my nerves.We will let our football do the talking on
    the 13th Oct.
    
    Who started it anyway??.....not me.
    
    
    Regards,
    
    Anthony.
    "
    -

re -2....

Good point about the Lack of atmosphere...I was at the last Spanish Game in 
April 1989. Mind you, there was over 43,000 at that game. So much for FIFA's 
all -seater rules.

I dont feel its being racist to raise issues like the "sweeties" that Spain 
have offered Lithuania (like paying player's insurance) and perhaps other 
smaller Countries also. Its only right and proper to highlight improprieties 
as regards "fair play". 

However, I defer to your greater wisdom, oh Spanish one, and will drop the 
issue fortwith.  8^)

*Tiger*

after all Dev was a Spaniard, wasnt he??? 

    Tiger,
          Nothing doing here.Will we go over to 129 for the crack.
    
    
    
    Regards,
    
    Signor Anthony.
           "
           -

	Looks like the Anti-Spanish business has bubbled over into Topic 48

	Olay....

    Does anyone know what time kick off is at for the Spanish game.
    
    Pour Favour..
    
    Anthony...
    

	The only thing I can tell you is that coverage starts on ITV
	at 2.30 in the afternoon.

	Se�n.

    
    
    Apparently the Sanish were in Dublin to inspect the press facilities. 
    Newspaper stories about them complaining about the venue were a total
    fabrication.  Looks like the Independent got it wrong again.
    
    It should still make for a hostile crowd on October 13th.  It's about
    time we had some noise at home as the only atmospher eat Irish games
    these days is when we travel.
    
    Gary.

>>    It should still make for a hostile crowd on October 13th.  It's about
>>    time we had some noise at home as the only atmospher eat Irish games
>>    these days is when we travel.
    
    Gary,
	On that note, a lot of people are saying that this is the last
	campaign in which they will go to the home matches. My tickets
	for the home matches cost �150 (same as yourself, I believe),
	not counting friendlies. Put that towards an away match, and watch
	the home matches on the telly (same atmosphere!) and at least you'd
	get one match with a bit of crack!

    Michael.

    Clemente the Spanish manager has named his squad ro travel to Ireland
    next week.The side includes eight defenders.Seems to me that the
    Spanish are running scared.Could you blame them?Poor Fellas!!
    
    
    Regards,
    
    Anthony.
    "
    -

    Ron Athkinson has ruled Andy Townsend out of the Spain game on
    wednesday and has also declared Paul McGrath doubtful.It will not be
    decided until monday weather McGrath will be allowed to travel to
    Dublin or not.
    
    
    Regards,
    
    Anthony.
    "
    -

No Andy Townsend, then.....who'll take his slot?  Is Whelan Match-Fit?

Finally, after so many games, this is it. I sincerely hope FIFA do something 
about pre-qualifying tournaments for the weaker nations in the future. WIth 
expanding fragmentation politically in Europe this is going to turn into a 
nightmare.

As regards the game, I cant see them winning and I cant see us winning, so I 
guess its on to Windsor Park looking for a point from our Northern Breathern.

Lets hope Ulster says "YES" for a change...  8^)

*Tiger*

    
    Andy Townsend is out and Paul McGrath is very dodgey.  
    
    I hope Whelan doesn't play.  He appears to be over the hill.  I'd play
    McGrath in midfield if he's fit.
    
    Gary.

    
    Limerick are holding a draw on Sunday with 6 tickets for Wednesday's
    game as prizes.  If anybody here in Galway is interested I've got the 
    cards at my desk.  Tickets cost #1.
    
    Gary (ext 4654)

  Anthony what do you mean by Townsend is ruled out????? Is he injured or what???
Can Atkinson decide that all four Irish players are not allowed to travel????

                                                 
                                                     dazed and confused......
                                                              -dave-

P.s Tiger if we draw against Spain that's enough to get us to the states and we
    don't need a result in NI.

P.s1   Robin are they showing the game in Munich???? and is it at the Shamrock
       and at what time etc??????????

    Re PS -1
    
    I might be wrong, but by my reckoning :
    
    If we draw with Spain and Denmark beat the North by 4 goals on
    Wednesday.
    
    Then on 17.11.93 if we lost to Northern Ireland and Spain beat Denmark
    by 1 goal that would leave the table as follows :
    
    
    		For   Against   Points
    
    Spain	24       3        18
    Denmark     18       2        18
    Ireland     17       3        18
    
    which would leave Jack free to go fishing next summer !
    
    I therefore recommend that we should just go out next Wednesday and
    beat Spain 5-0, so that we don't need to rely on our Friends north of
    the border !
    
    Jerry.
    

    >   Robin are they showing the game in Munich???? and is it at the Shamrock
    >   and at what time etc??????????
    
    Dave, they are. I've just asked a reliable source but will confirm it
    tonight. They've had all the matches so far so this should be no exception.
    Btw, the place will be mobbed, so you'd need to get there earlyish.
    Apparently kickoff is 15:00.
    
    Cheers,
    Robin

    
    Well chaps ! What are our chances on wednesday ?
    
    Personally, I'm not too optimistic.
    
    Spain 1   Ireland 0
      89'
    
    An Impartial Celt.

    re -1
    
    BLASPHEMER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    Actually kick off is at 2:45 with coverage starting on Network 2 at
    2:15.
    
    Re.-2
        Oh ye of little faith.Almost eight years since the RoI have been
    beaten at home.Not to mention the fact that Spain are bad travellers
    and have packed their team with defenders.The RoI have beaten Spain two
    years ago who in my opinion had a much better team then.The RoI almost
    beat them(and indeed should have beaten them)in Spain.I think Ireland
    will stuff Spain in Lansdowne but I will not be disappointed with a
    draw.
    
    
    Regards,
    
    Anthony.
    "
    -

    
    
    Re  a few notes ago ..
    
    Your all right about the atmosphere in Lansdowne in recent times ,its
    been bad and again i would put it down to the corporates ...
    I have only missed 5 home games in the last 12 years and sometimes i 
    wish for the old days (except for the results of course ).
    I block-booked my south terrace ticket in feb 92 and pay for two 
    matchs in advance ,this finishes with the Spain match .I,m reconsidered
    if i,ll do it again ?? We havent had the same people sitting beside us
    for any matchs ..At the last match the divy on the tannoy was blue in
    the face trying to get the WAVE going at half-time .(not that i,m into 
    that naff wave ) but the craic isint the same .
    
                      Liam
    
    p.s Gary are you going to the N.I. game  ??
        Some of us are going with some colleagues from our belfast office
        if you are interested ??

    
    Fingers crossed for a good atmosphere tomorrow.  I could even put up
    with the chorus of Molly Malone.  :-)
    
    Liam, I am going to Belfast.  I took a block booking last year for
    Windsor 50 pounds for 6 games as opposed to 150 in Dublin.  A friend
    took the tickets for their games v Spain and Denmark and I even went up
    to the Lithuania game.
    
    Have you any spare tickets?  A friend of mine is trying to get a
    ticket.
    
    Gary.

    
    re: Talk about the atmosphere at Landsdown.
    
    You're dead right.
    
    I've been going to Internationals with my Dad since I was 7 or 8. I've
    been there when the team were booed off the pitch Ireland v Norway
    circa 1986. I've been there for some of the great Irish performances
    also. Between 1980 and 1990 my Dad and myself missed *one* home game
    and what has to be said is that, even though the team weren't playing
    well all that time the crowd always had passion about the football and
    expressed it !!!
    I can't say I'm envious of anybody going to Landsdown tomorrow. I'll be
    perfectly happy to watch the box. The I.R.F.U have the right idea. If
    you are a memeber of a club, you have adequate access to tickets. They
    have their corporate tickets also but that doesn't seem to make a
    difference to the atmosphere when the Rugby team play. 
    So where is the difference ?   
    
    Maybe it would be a good idea to give people tokens towards
    tickets when they attend a League of Ireland game. At least then, genuine
    supporters of the game would have a head start.
     
    Peter.
    
    

    ANy team news_  Is McGrath fit_  Will he play in midfield if fit
    replacing Townsend_
    
    Cheers,
    Shane
    
    

    
    re .469, McGrath is fit.  The team won't be announced until tomorrow.
    
    Re .468, the tickets don't go to the clubs and even those that do don't
    go to the fans.  I applied for tickets in Limerick months ago and got
    none.  I can't find any Limerick fans who got club tickets.
    
    I have a ticket for tommorow because I could pay 190 pounds last year
    for 6 WC games and 2 friendlies.  
    
    Gary.

     Gary,
    
    	I know that soccer clubs don't get an adequate quota of tickets.
    	The question "Where's the difference ?" is rhetorical.
    	The difference is that genuine Rugby fans get tickets as well as the
    	corporates where as with soccer, those who can afford to fork out
    	190 pounds or pay the scalps get them, as well as the corporates.
        True soccer fans ( on the whole ) are not  going to be at Landsdown
    	tomorrow.
    
    Peter.     

	I agree with most of the comments but we should take into account that
the terrances are gone, no more swaying this way and that way, it all added to a
great atmosphere.

	I myself find it that bit harder to get into the spirit of the game now
that I'm sitting at the games...

The trouble is too many people just wan't to go to the big games. Everyone
is looking for tickets for tomorrow, but where were these people last month,
and when Ireland played Albania and Latvia. I blocked booked my tickets because
I knew it would be the only way I could guarantee getting one. Also you did'nt
have to fork out for the 8 tickets at once. You could pay for them 2 at a time.
So everyone had the chance to get them. This day and age with the capacity at
33,000 you can't pick your games like in the old days.

�@

    have the team s been announced yet?

Ronnie Whelan to get the first score. 

Rep of Ireland 1 Spain 1


    CUNNO

    
    Alan Kernaghan to get the first score (If he's playing)
    A power driver at that.
    
    Rep of Ireland 2 Spain 0
                           

  I for one hope that Whelan isn't playing, he's over the hill Cunno I'll buy
ya a pint at christmas for my penance!!!! We need a tough midfield, I also think
that McGrath would be lost in midfield I can't see him lasting 90mins in that
position. I hope Keane has a similar game to the one he had in Spain, a lot
will depend on him and on the back four. Spain  want to sneak a win and will
wait for the break. It would be a disaster if Spain scored first, they could go
on to win the game by two or three goals because they are very fast on the 
break. 

   Be thankfull if we get a draw a win would put me in a non sober state!!!!
Who cares who scores I'll even accept two og's..... Can someone post the team
and maybe a continuous update like very 10-15mins of the game for those who
wont get to see it.....

                                                                thanks.....

                                                                   -dave- 

sure Dave...I'll keep this conference in mind during the game.

*tiger*

I share the Impartial Celts unease about todays game.  It is a game critical 
to Spain and they will go out hyped up.  Whether the Irish will feel the same
remains to be seen.  I would be more than happy to draw 0-0 and then go to 
Denmark tonight and hope that the North do us a huge favour.  Failing that the
North will let us win our final game to ensure qualification ;-).

                              James. 

    Team news
    
    				Bonner
    
    Irwin		Moran		Kernaghan	Phelan
    
    		Keane		McGrath		Whelan
    
    			Houghton	Staunton	
    
    				Quinn	
    

    
            Latest:
    
                    Rep.of Ireland  0       Spain   1
      						12min
    

    
            Latest:
    
                    Rep.of Ireland  0       Spain   2
                                            12 min
                                            16 min
     
    

    please say your only joking!!!
    
    Joe.

    
            Latest:
    
                    Rep.of Ireland  0       Spain   3
                                            12 min
                                            16 min
                                            25 min
        
    

scuse me while I puke.....

*Tiger*

    Ireland are doing well so far...
    
    
    Gary

    
    Sorry to have to say this, but it's no joke.
    Moran been substituted due to an injury.
    There's a strong breeze blowing in Spain favour.
    All Spains goals came after strong Irish attacking.
    
    Please God, I will never miss mass again.
    
    

    
    -Chuff Me .
    
    
    

    Half-time
    
    
    Rep Of Ireland   0       Spain   3
    
    
    
    Gary

    
    Re. .487
    
    Are you sure the pitch isn't sloping and the Irish goal is much bigger
    than the Spaniard's goal.
    
    ;>)
    
     Steve.
    

    
    lets hope so, then we have a better chance in the second half.
    
    
    

Now we have depend on:

N. Ireland beating Spain AND 
Spain beating Denmark AND
Republic beating N. Ireland AND
a Rosary...

                             James.

       re .492:
       
       Wrong.
       
       The ROI are in if they beat No. Ireland on 17 Nov.; it doesn't
       matter what anyone else does.
       
      _____________ _______    ________ _________  ______  _________ ________   
     /  __   __   //  ___  \  /_______//  ___   //  ___  //  ___   //_______/  
    /  / /  / /  //  /__/  |    /  /  /  /  /  //  /__/ //  /__/  /    _/ _/  
�� /  / /  / /  //  __   _/    /  /  /  /  /  //  _____//  ___   /   _/ _/  
  /  / /  / /  //  /  \  \    /  /  /  /__/  //  /     /  /  /  /   /  /___    
 /__/ /__/ /__//__/    \__\  /__/  /________//__/     /__/  /__/   /_______/ 
       

    
    Spain have only to play Denmark. This means if Ireland beat N. Ireland
    you definitely qualify. Spain and Denmark must still fight it out. The
    N Ireland result tonight makes little difference to anybody. Whoever
    wins on 17-11 will qualify (except N. Ireland of course!)
    
    JBG

re -1,-2

That last game will be some contest if and when it boils down to the Republic
having to win to qualify.  I'm a little happier now :-).

The question now is: Will Jack be dropping in on Billy Bingham with a brown
paper bag containing $50000?

                             James.

Sheridan

    
            Latest:
    
                    Rep.of Ireland  1       Spain   3
                    73 min                  12 min
                                            16 min
                                            25 min
        

      
      Is that the final score ? Who scored for Spain ?
    
    

    	    Final Score:
    
    			Rep.of Ireland  1       Spain   3
    
    

     FULL TIME  
    
    IRELAND 1   SPAIN 3
    
    Unlucky boys....
    
    Neil....

re -1....

thanks Neil,  But luck had nothing to do with it. We were destroyed by a far superior 
team. The Spanish were superb.

Our Wimbledon style of football was gobbled up by a team which could take the sting out 
of our attack, control the ball, and break away with lethal finishing.

Our defence did not enhance their reputation. By the time McGrath was restored to the 
back line from midfield, all the damage was done.

Good luck tonight , by the way. The Dutch will be a tough proposition.

A very sad,

*Tiger*  8^(((((((((

    I believe the Irish played some strong football.
    
    And I agree with Neil, we were unlucky. We had Moran taken off injured
    in the first 20 minutes, that screwed Jacks plans, only thing he could 
    do at half time ws reshuffle, and then what happened, we run out of 
    Subs when it became clear that Irwin wasn't in the best of condition
    
    Don't forget we also hit the crossbar, a Kernaghan header was going
    straight in until it got the slightest deflection off a Spanish
    defender and just went over.
    
    All in all I thought the played attacking football more so than they
    normally do.
    
    Heading to the bar, hold all calls.
    
    Se�n

    
    Well looks like Jack was right about the performance in the previous
    game. So since Jack arrived the team has gone from....
    
    	"All we've got to do is show up...."
    
    	to 
    
    	"All we've got to do is to show up to win...."
    
    Well that was soon put to rest today, maybe just in the nick of time.
    It might wake up a few of the players before they play Northern
    Ireland.
    
    Not too surprised by the result.....more disappointed with the
    performance....
    
    Dezzz.
    

    
    re: .501
    
    Tiger,
    
    I'll take this opportunity to congratulate you on your sportsmanship.
    It must take some doing to write a note like that half an hour after
    seeing your team's World Cup chances take such a dent.
    
    I won't be able to see the game until 22.30 tonight on Italian TV. As
    for the England game, Berlusconi's mob have the rights so they're only
    showing it on the pay-TV channel...but I'll be there, ruining my
    eyesight as per usual!
    
    Cheers (and commiserations)
    
    Dom

   Out here in the middle of the woods I get to see my first live Irish game
on tv in ten years and what happens... I nearly wet my pants when our site dish
picked up the RTE signal... although there was no chance of having a beer at
least I had a few smokes at half time... Let the Spanish score and they will
probably add a few more... but I didn't expect that to happen in the first 25mins

   Actually when Moran went off Ireland started to play better football thanks
mainly to John Sheridan who replaced him.  Kernaghan looked more like a gaelic
footballer than a soccer player, and was 80% at fault for the second goal, 
Bonner looked very slow and clumbsy for the second and third goal. What amazed
me though was that we started with one man up front Quinn, and although he
battled for the full 90mins he got little or no support untill the final 20 mins.

   We can only hope that Townsend and Aldridge are back for the NI game, Whelan
has to go, I would also replace Phelan in the back four with Staunton, and 
McGraths position is in the back four and not in midfield. Sheridan done enough
to prove he should start in Belfast.

   Iam not sure I'll be able to stick out the game in Belfast without a beer or
two. Well at least its in our hands which helps. I will also put a word in for
the Spanish they fully deserved their win and if they play with the same
commitment against the Danes they will qualify. They have a very good young team
mixed with some maturer players. Everytime they went on a counter attack I just
closed my eyes. The game was also played in a very fair spirit, only one yellow
card and no bad fouls.

   The scorers for the Spanish were Salinas 2 and cam* 1, both players were
replaced after the damage had been done.

                                                                    -dave-

Denmark beat Norther Ireland 1-0 so Eire fall from first to third in the
    table.
    
    commiserations to Eire for today - losing 1 game in 11 and not being
    in a qualifying position seems a little harsh.
    
    I'm not sure of the combinations but a win for Denmark or Spain sees
    them through. a draw could see any denmark through if Eire win, both
    through if eire draws or loses. a loss for spain sees Eire through
    if they draw whereas a loss for denmark requires eire to win (a draw
    wouldn't be good enough)  - anyone that understands that paragraph
    deserves a prize
    
    Of course both denmark/spain have an advantage if their game kicks off
    later in the day thatn the irish game.
    
    as usual, the updated table is next now i've finished rambling
    
    regards,
    
    Andrew.D.Wicks
                Group 3
                                   GP    W    D    L    GF    GA   Pts  
                Denmark            11    7    4    0    15     1    18   
                Spain              11    7    3    1    26     4    17   
                Ireland            11    7    3    1    18     5    17   
                N. Ireland         11    5    2    4    13    12    12   
                Lithuania          12    2    3    7     8    21     7    
                Latvia             12    0    5    7     4    21     5    
                Albania            12    1    2    9     6    26     4    

                Group 3
                        13.10.93: Denmark-N. Ireland	1-0
                        13.10.93: Ireland-Spain		1-3
                        17.11.93: N. Ireland-Ireland           
                        17.11.93: Spain-Denmark
      

    
    I don't think that we're good enough to beat the North in Belfast.
    By my calculations however, a draw will see us through IF the other
    game ends in a win for either side.
    
    Piles and Grumpy predictably dumped on Kernaghan, blaming him for the
    defeat. While Kernaghan was bad, he wasn't the only one. There are
    certain Irish players whom Piles and Grumpy won't criticise, no matter
    how badly they play.
    
    Denis.
    

    
    Sorry mate, but if your chaps draw in Belfast, you have to hope that
    Spain win by 3 goals or lose by 11!
    
    JBG

    
    We deserved to lose. It was patently obvious from our previous
    performance that a loss was on the cards. The standard of football
    played by the Irish team was pathetic and to be honest many of the
    players are past their sell-by date. Whelan & Houghton need to be
    replaced. Sheridan was a revelation when he came on and should be the
    first name on the team sheet for the next game. 
    We seldom looked like scoring. O.K a shot hit the cross-bar but appart
    from that there was little in the way of constructive attacking
    football.
    
    Not a good day for Irish football, but maybe it will finally sink in
    that the team needs restructuring. Jack *will* pick a few new faces and 
    we *will* beat Northern Ireland. At least qualification is still in our own
    hands . It's better for this disaster to happen now than in the U.S. A little
    bit of reality (we are not invincible) does no harm.
    
    
    Peter(An Impartial Celt).

    oh my god! I've just had the most awful nightmare. I dreamt that we
    were beaten 3-1 at home by Spain....

    
    Well, in the cold light of day, on the morning after etc etc etc....
    
    .......how does everyone rate the chances of qualification??
    
    Before answering bear in mind that Ireland have never won in Belfast
    plus that great quality, fighting spirit, which carried the campaign
    this far, was conspicuous by it's absence yesterday. Charlton's tactics
    yesterday were beyond belief......playing for a draw with five in
    midfield and one up-front, he got what he deserved, nada. The writing
    was on the wall after the last game, plus Spain stuffing five past the
    Albanians.
    
    Personally (as a Geordie lad who rated "Wor Jackie" as the worst manager
    ever at Newcastle) I can't stand the man's tactics. It seems to me that
    he has built a team whose only objective is to qualify for the US,
    without any thought given to what will happen when they get there. His
    insistence on playing Bonner and not bringing on Kelly is a prime
    example.
    
    I don't think that eejit Dunphy does any good either. He gave Kernighan
    a right rollicking yesterday, when there wasn't a single player out
    there who performed. It seems that certain players are criticised
    whilst others are above contempt. Also he always analyses any situation
    based on what Ireland did or didn't do (in this case didn't do). He
    never once attributed Spain's success to the fact that they were vastly
    superior.
    
    
    If I was an Irish supporter, watching that yesterday, I wouldn't want
    to qualify.
    
    ps - re .502 "I believe the Irish played some strong football"
    
     		I'll have one of whatever you were drinking.......
    
    Cheers......Ned

re .508

>    Sorry mate, but if your chaps draw in Belfast, you have to hope that
>    Spain win by 3 goals or lose by 11!
>    
>    JBG


Wrong..

If Ireland draw they'll be on 18 points, and if Spain lose they'll be on 17.

Al

    
>>    If I was an Irish supporter, watching that yesterday, I wouldn't want
>>    to qualify.
    
    
    Hey Ned, are you Spanish or Danish?

    
    NU (Nordic Union)
    
      \                                      \                \
       \       /\                             \       /\       \       /\
    :. /______/  \_                        :) /______/  \_  :> /______/  \_
      /       \                              /       \        /       \
     / (DEN)   \                            /  (SWE)  \      /  (NOR)  \
     \         /                            \         /      \         /
              /_                                     /_               /_
     
    Denmark, are you coming with us..?
    We are going to the US!
    
    The Swedish Swagman
    

    from the Irish Times
    The PERMUTATIONS
    1.  RoI beat the North....We qualify irrespective of the Spain-Denmark
    game
    
    2.  Draw in Belfast and Spain win.... we qualify
        If Denmark lose by one goal they would have the same GD(+13) but we
    have scored more goals therfore we qualify
    
    3.  Draw in Belfast and Denmark win......Ireland and Denmark qualify
    
    4.  Draw in both matches.....we're out
    
    5.  RoI lose....we're out

Well,  

it's a grey morning here in Dublin. The full weight of yesterdays defeat is only sinking 
in.

We really fu**ed up, didnt we???

After Norn Iron's great display against Denmark yesterday, I personally dont fancy our 
chances of the win in Belfast.

If we get a draw, then maybe the SPanish and Danes will play for a draw also, as that 
will qualify both of them.

We need a win in Belfast, straight up.

What the f* was Kerneghan getting all the blame for. Ronnie Whelan was non-existent,
Houghton was dire, Staunton was woeful, The defence in general were awol.

Whats up with Giles & Dubphy that they cant identify the other bad players???

With Billy Binghams last game coming up, we need a massed defence, and quick breakaway 
attacks to score the vital win.

*Tiger*

    I thought that the last games in the group had to be played at the
    exact same time, thus eliminating the possibility of any sort of under
    the table deal a la Austria v Germany(World Cup '82)

    re .511
    
    >> ps - re .502 "I believe the Irish played some strong football"
    >>
    >> 		I'll have one of whatever you were drinking.......
    
    Thanks for a good laugh! Should be a lesson to others with less
    subtle ways of expressing differing opinions. But I guess they're
    already out drinking...
    
    Henrik
    

   Rep of Ir. 1
   Spain      3

    A bad result for us yesterday but all is not lost. A win in Belfast will
see us through and if we draw and Spain beat Denmark which looks likely, we
will go through. The team selection was wrong from the start. One man playing
on his own up front and the midfield with the exception of Whelan not doing
their job and the back four being cut to pieces. 

Our boys will now have to prove themselves in Belfast which they can do.
Keane & Houghton were useless yesterday, Kernaghan is still very raw for
international football and Bonner isn't inspiring confidence. Only Ronnie
came out of yesterday's game with any credibility and we need Aldo up front.

My team for Belfast would be:


                              Kelly

       Irwin           Moran         McGrath          Phelan

      McGoldrick      Whelan       Townsend           Staunton           


                      Aldridge      Quinn


So out go Bonner, Kernaghan, Houghton, Keane. I'll bet a lot of people out
there would agree with my selection.


    C U N N O

    IMO Whelan reinforced his reputation as a 45 minute player
    Sheridan was the only Irish player worthy of any note there yesterday

    
    Re.516 Tiger.
    
    >What the f* was Kerneghan getting all the blame for. Ronnie Whelan was
    >Houghton was dire, Staunton was woeful, The defence in general were
    >awol
    
    >Whats up with Giles & Dubphy that they cant identify the other bad
    >players???
    
    I'm glad I'm not the only one that thinks this way. Piles and Grumpy
    are two of the biggest a**holes I've ever come across. Worse than Jimmy
    Hill. As I said in a previous note there are certain players they won't
    criticise no matter how bad they play. They're picking on Kerneghan now
    the way they used to pick on Mick McCarthy.
    
    Re Cunno.
    
    >Only Ronnie came out of yesterday's game with any credibility
    
    As someone already said, I'll have some of whatever it is your drinking
    ;').
    
    Denis.

    re .519
    
    >Only Ronnie came out of yesterday's game with any credibility.....
    
    Whelan was dire....which team do you support?????? (rhetorical
    question)
    
    >My team for Belfast would be:


    >                             Kelly

    >      Irwin           Moran         McGrath          Phelan

    >     McGoldrick      Whelan       Townsend           Staunton           


    >                     Aldridge      Quinn


    >So out go Bonner, Kernaghan, Houghton, Keane. I'll bet a lot of people out
    >there would agree with my selection.

     But whatever happened to your best player out there yesterday.......
     
    
     .........John Sheridan???????
    
     Cheers......Ned

RE -2...

martin, have you lost touch with reality....Whelan is an unwanted, unfit player who cant 
even get a slot on a hatchet team like Liverpool. Given that all whelan does now is lunge 
at opponents, I'm surprised that Souness is selling him.

I do agree with you about Aldo, the team lost shape without him up front, and obviously 
without McGrath at the back.


Maybe its time Big Jack gave up the Monaghan Milk, probably too full of Angel dust.

*Tiger*

    RE: .519
    
    Its time to take off the rose tinted specs Martin.
    
    IMHO Whelan is over the hill and has been for some time. Yesterdays 
    performance by him was woefull. He will be very lucky to retain his
    place in the subs. I believe the time has come for changes also but
    our options are very limited.
    
    Yesterday we were c*@p, and deserved to lose to anyone. After seeing
    the Denmark V N. Ireland match I would not hold out too much hope of
    a victory in Belfast. But again its down to ourselves. We need some
    changes in midfield. Townsend hopefully will be back and I would
    drop both Whelan and Houghton.
    
    Giles and Dunmpy heaped all the blame on Kernahan. He had a bad game
    and was responsible for two of there goals. The second one was
    terrible. But he had a lot of support for worst player on the field.
    
    Here's hoping we can recover and get that win in Belfast and qualify.
    
    Pat 

  Cunno I support both the Pool and Ireland and I don't want to see Whelan in
either a green jersey or a red jersey ever again.... Two players shone yesterday
and they were John Sheridan and Paul McGrath when he moved back. Cunno Iam glad
you have no say in the team to play the north, you'd probably recall Mark
Lawerenson and Steve Heighway just because they played for the pool!!!!!

                                                                   -dave-

		Ireland 1 Spain 3

The party at Lansdowne Road turned into a funeral.  The whole nation
watched in horror as Spain outplayed and outclassed Ireland.  Before the 
game the talk was of American visas, street parties and Guinness.  25
minutes later and everyone was in shock.  The decision to play a 5 man 
midfield at home proved to be a big mistake but it shouldn't take from the 
fact that Spain were simply a better side.

The game opened brightly with both sides trying to attack.  Spain struck first
after 12 minutes.  A long throw in was half cleared and Caminero volleyed
into the roof of the net.  A mistake by Alan Kernaghan 4 minutes later
allowed Salinas to make it 2-0.  Kernaghan almost redeemed himself seconds
later when his header came off the crossbar.  The game ended as a contest
after 25 minutes when Salinas waltzed through the home defence to make it
three.  Sheridan and Cascarino replaced the injured Moran and Staunton but
the damage was already done.

Ireland did press for much of the second half but Spain were always in control
and could have added another couple of goals on the break.  The impressive
John Sheridan pulled a goal back after 71 minutes but it was too little
too late.  Nadal was outstanding at the back for Spain and he deservedly
won the man of the match award.

The crowd's reaction was varied.  Some left after the 3rd Spanish goal.
Some of us were defiant to the end, still hoping against hope for a comeback
and claiming we'll win in Belfast.  I've already put money on with a friend 
that we'll win at Windsor but it'll be very difficult.

		Denmark 1 Northern Ireland 0

Denmark gained a slightly fortunate victory over Northern Ireland which
puts them on top of Group 3.  Northern Ireland had a couple of good chances
in the first half and dealt capably with sporadic Danish attacks.  In the
second half the Laudrup brothers took control but Northern Ireland held
on.  Indeed Jimmy Quinn had a goal disallowed for pushing that many referees
would have allowed,  The breakthrough came 8 minutes from time when Brian
Laudrup went on another mazey run before beating Tommy Wright at the near
post.



                Group 3
                                   GP    W    D    L    GF    GA   Pts  MxPts
                Denmark            11    7    4    0    15     1    18   20
                Spain              11    7    3    1    26     4    17   19
                Ireland            11    7    3    1    18     5    17   19
                N. Ireland         11    5    2    4    13    12    12   14
                Lithuania          12    2    3    7     8    21     7    7
                Latvia             12    0    5    7     4    21     5    5
                Albania            12    1    2    9     6    26     4    4



                        17.11.93: N. Ireland-Ireland
                        17.11.93: Spain-Denmark

The permutations are as follows

Ireland must win to be sure of qualifying.  If we draw we require Spain to 
beat Denmark by 2 goals or Denmark to beat Spain.  A one goal victory for
Spain would leave us with a playoff v Denmark if we draw.

Denmark need a draw in Seville to qualify.  A defeat will leave them depending
on Northern Ireland.  Spain must win to be sure of qualifying.

    
    Are you sure a playoff is required if Denmark lose 1-0 and we draw? 
    I thought that the fact that we've scored more goals would get us 
    through if we were both level on goal difference.
    
    Denis.

       re .527:
       
       You're correct; here's the tie-breaking scheme for WC qualifiers,
       according to FIFA's green book:
       
        1.  Goal difference (goals scored minus goals conceded)
        2.  Goals scored
        3.  Goal difference in matches played between teams equal in points
        4.  Playoff match on neutral ground (or, with approval of the
            organizing committee, in one of the countries concerned); if
            the match is drawn after 90 minutes, 30 minutes extra time is
            played; if drawn after the extra time, penalty kicks are
            taken, using "the procedure adopted by the International
            Football Association Board and published by FIFA"

��beat Denmark by 2 goals or Denmark to beat Spain.  A one goal victory for
��Spain would leave us with a playoff v Denmark if we draw.

Gary,
     Why a play-off, I thought the team with the most goals scored qualify.

�@

    Boy would I laugh if Wales went out that way !
    Still they don't deserve to go through, after only beating nine men in
    the top soccer nation called Cyprus. ;^)
    
    Rich.

I didn't personally watch the match live but saw *some* highlights late last
night.  Anyone know why all those idiots left the game early?  The TV cameras
should have zoomed in on those leaving to embarrass the s**t out of them. 
Getting tickets in front of genuine supporters is hard to swallow, when you see
such idiots leaving early from a match of such importance to Ireland.  

It goes to prove they were only there to be part of the almighty bandwagon.  A
real supporter would stick it to the end, would never desert the team, even when
they were 3-0 down - right Gary, Mick Dun?  Only once did I leave a match when
either Ireland or Leeds were playing badly and that was that faithful occasion
when Leeds were 4-0 down at HT against Liverpool, at home, nearly 30 months ago.
What I missed was nearly the greatest comeback ever by a Leeds team of my
recollection, losing the game eventually 5-4 :-(.

                               James.

    
    	I watched the game in an Irish pub in Munich. I've never heard that
    many Irishmen so quite before! Ireland were well beaten, Spain played
    some great stuff and were really solid at the back.
    
    	Charltons tactics were just wrong. Quinn was on his own and the
    midfield were all way to deap to get onto anything that Quinn won.
    Twice in the first half there was an inviting knock down in the box and
    not a green jersey in sight.
    
    	I agree with you Tiger, Dunphy talks thro' his backend. Kernaghan
    didn't have a good game, but if you only heard Dunphys comments you'd
    have thought he'd scored three own goals. As to moving Staunton back to
    left back, Staunton was useless yesterday and only Whelan was worse.
    Bonner looks past it, McGrath MUST play at the back. On the plus side I
    thought Sheridan was great. 
    
    	The Irish commentator made John Motson look intelligent!

    
    Apparently I was wrong about goals scored.  They do now count.  The
    rule must have changed sine the 82 WC qualifying campaign.  Remember we
    were hoping for a draw between France and Holland to give us a playoff
    for a place in Spain.
    
    If we win we're through.
    
    If we draw we need someone to win in Seville.  2 draws and we're out.
    
    If we lose we need Denmark to beat Spain by 11 goals more than NI beat
    us.
    
    Gary.

    can anyone confirm that the last matches in the group are to be played
    at the same time?

��  can anyone confirm that the last matches in the group are to be played
��  at the same time?

As far a I know, they have to be played at the same time. This is a FIFA 
rule, so that no team has an unfair advantage.

�@

    this would imply that the England v San Marino game goes back a day
    to the 17th also.
    
    Regards,
    
    Andrew.D.Wicks

    
    re -1, I don't see the advantage of putting England v San Marino back a
    day.  Enbgland need to get seven anyway.  It is different in the case
    of Group 3 where Ireland could play for a draw if Spain or Denmark win
    and if Ireland had already lost Spain and Denmark could play for a
    draw.
    
    Having said that it will probably happen.  didn't it happen to Scotland
    last time?
    
    Gary.

I read somewhere that the game has already been switched to the 17th.

�@

     Picked this up from Internet (soccer group). I think they are talking
    about Piles and Grumpy (even though it says ITV). Good old Eamon, still
    winning friends the world over with his expert knowledge.
     
>I saw the Spain-Ireland match on Pay-Per-View in the states. It was from a  
>network called ITV. There were three commentators for the game.
 
>My question is: Aren't these guys a little bit biased? According to them, the  
>three Spanish goals were "spectacular mistakes" by the Irish. In the second  
>Spanish goal, they particularly nailed one Irish guy  for everything from  
>running in the wrong direction to  his uniform. No mention whatsoever that the  
>goals *may be* the result of good play by Spain. In fact, I don't think they  
>mentioned the word Spain more than twice.
 
>One guy in particular--the one with curly hair--had gems such as: "The team who  
>scores more goals wins the match".
 
>And I thought I had an easy job...!
 
>--
>Angel Puerta
>[email protected]
                                                             

    RE: .511
    
    >ps - re .502 "I believe the Irish played some strong football"
    >
    >I'll have one of whatever you were drinking.......
    >
    >Cheers......Ned
    
    
            Strong as in physical.
    
                            To Ned "The Plastic Paddy"
    
    Why the delay? Recovering.
    
                            Se�n

    
    Ha Ha Ha.....nice one John (oops sorry Se�n - back into Plastic Paddy
                                Mode)
    
    Well I've been called a Plastic Geordie (born too far north of the Tyne)
                          a Plastic Canuk   (take off eh Hoser!)
                          a Plastic Cuban   (Habla Espa�ol???)
                          a Plastic Yank    (have a nice day...from a nice
                                             Flawda boy!)
    
    But the biggest insult of all...a Plastic Paddy...I'm cut to the quick.
    
    Eamon � Ceallaigh (Plastic Fear Gael) 

    
    We all have our own opinions?
    
    You can like'm or lump'em.
    
    Now cut the crap and back to football.
    
    Se�n O'Giebhanagh.
    

    
    Short and sweet.

    
    Are we at cross purposes here se�n or what???
    
    I meant *what* football????...not....*which* football???
    
    I realise English is not an Irishman's first language 8^)
    
    Cheers....Ned

    
    At least we've brought the topic closer to the 600 mark.

I think what young Ned is trying to get at is; that we Oirish dont play footie as 
cultured as the English, loike.

Well, Ned, back into your iron mask, and off to Australia with ye. 

(Will ye cheer for us on Wednesday, 17th Of November?? or will ye be cheering for the 
North?)

Yours, on the fifth also,


*Tiger*

    Tim,
    	Well my grandparents on my Father's side were from Co. Down, and
    those on my Mother's side were from Dublin, so I guess I can take my
    pick.
    
    But seriously though.....
    
    I hope the Republic win and go to WC94 !!!!!!!
    
    Cheers......Ned

    
    I see we're all back on the one boat.
    
    Se�n

On a recent trip home I decided not to tempt fate by buying one of the ridiculous USA 94/Ireland
T- SHirts.  With nearly a week to recover from the Spanish defeat, hope springs eternal.  Our recent 
record of winning away games surpasses our home record.  An interesting question is when did we last 
beat a top-class team in a championship game at home (I tempt fate again by not counting Norn Ire) ? 
Failure to win at home against England and Poland cost us qualification for Sweden 92.  We since 
failed to beat Spain and Denmark.  Unbeaten records are not necessarily good results!

On the positive side, good to see the real football fans accept defeat.  We're now in third and the 
underdogs.  We will win in Belfast!

Shane

    Note 130.552 by PIECES::63592::PCDEFAULT "Place holder for NOTES"
                       -< Hope springs eternal >-
    
    Looks like interesting reading, but could you cut your lines a little
    shorter. Some of us can't read the end of each line.
    
    Se�n
    

           <<< TRUCKS::DISK$USER72:[NOTES$LIBRARY]FOOTBALL.NOTE;1 >>>
                                 -< FOOTBALL >-
================================================================================
Note 130.552              World Cup qualifying Group 3                552 of 553
PIECES::63592::PCDEFAULT "Place holder for NOTES"  13 lines  19-OCT-1993
09:40:00.87
                           -< Hope springs eternal >-
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
On a recent trip home I decided not to tempt fate by buying one of the
ridiculous USA 94/Ireland T- SHirts.  With nearly a week to recover from the
Spanish defeat, hope springs eternal.  Our recent record of winning away games
surpasses our home record.  An interesting question is when did we last beat a
top-class team in a championship game at home (I tempt fate again by not
counting Norn Ire) ? 

Failure to win at home against England and Poland cost us qualification for
Sweden 92.  We since failed to beat Spain and Denmark.  Unbeaten records are not
necessarily good results!

On the positive side, good to see the real football fans accept defeat.  We're
now in third and the underdogs.  We will win in Belfast!

Shane

		Or else buy a PC from Digital with a Notes Client.

		

    
    Read in the Irish Times today that the game between North of Ireland
    and Rep. of Ireland is to start the same time as the Spain-Denmark
    game. The kick off time is now 8.00pm. 
    
    Can someone update if they find out whether or not it is being shown
    in England.
    
    Cheers,
    
    Se�n.
    

>    Can someone update if they find out whether or not it is being shown
>    in England.
    
Well, I think BBC has got the rights to San Marino v England, and ITV has 
since bought Poland v Holland, so I think we've run out of channels to show it 
on! Still, it seems a shame ITV have ditched the Irish just when it's getting 
interesting.

grahame

    Sky Sports were advertising San-Marino v England. If thats true, the
    Beeb won't have it! Its going to be one heck of a night though with 8
    European places on the line....
    
    JBG

    
    	I can't understand why ITV would want to show the dutch game, do
    they not realise that English people will be watching the English game.
    Yes, I'm sure some people would probably flick over the odd time to 
    catch the latest, but that doesn't do ITVs ratings much good. They
    would be better off sticking to either the Irish or the Welsh games.
    I mean, Wales for one are part of Great Britain.
    
    Fingers crossed we will have something other than England v San Marino
    on another station.
    
    Con.Fused
       

    I think the IFA have a deal for all there matches with BBC N.Ireland,
    so I do'nt know if its to be shown on the mainland. I presume RTE have
    got it so we will sit, sweat, bite nails for 90 or so minutes. 
    
    There is also a rumour going round that it may be moved from Belfast
    after the terrible weekend of murderings. This was stated in some 
    Irish papers yesterday and today. Maybe this is all headline stunts by
    some of the papers I do'nt know. 
    
    Anyway I think we can still win in Belfast or wherever eventhough the
    Northern Ireland team looked very good in Copenhagen and were unlucky
    to lose. It is also Billy Binghams last game so they will be trying to
    send him out on a winning note.
    
    Pat (getting gittery)
    Pat

    re...possibility of moving the game
    
    This has been done before, around 1980, when the 2nd leg of the Dundalk
    v Linfield game was moved to Holland. I think it was moved for similar
    reasons, (ie.. an upsurge of violence in the North), so there is a
    precedent for this type of thing....
    I would rather see the match in Belfast anyways....
    Ray....  

    
    Moving the game would be a disaster for Northern Ireland.  It would be
    tantamount to giving in to the terrorists.
    
    Naturally it would benefit the Republic to play at Old Trafford or
    Ibrox but the game should go ahead in Belfast.  Spain and denmark would
    be furious if it was moved.  
    
    The game may be switched to the afternoon on police advice.
    
    Re Dundalk v Linfield.  Linfield were banned from playing home games
    for 2 seasons after riots in Oriel Park.  Northern Ireland did play
    home games in Britain from 1972-74 and Scotland didn't play at Windsor
    from until 1980.  
    
    Despite the recent upsurge in violence you are still more likely to be
    killed crossing the road than by a bomb or bullet.
    
    Gary.

    Gary,
    
    I think most people agree with what you say but wouldn't moving the
    game to the afternoon contravene that rule about playing all those
    final games at the same exact time?
    
    Regards
    
    Andrew.D.Wicks

    
    If the match is moved to the afternoon then so will the Spain game.
    Spain don't approve.  Ultimately it will be down to the police.  I'd
    guess an afternoon kickoff will be the compromise.
    
    Gary.

   Ah well those Spaniards are used to having a siesta in the afternoon, I just
hope that Denmark stuff them.... If we go through then I would also like to see
the Danes go through, alone for entertainment value, and all the satisfaction
they gave most of us in Sweeden last year..

                                                                    -dave-

    
    FIFA decided in Geneva yesterday that the Windsor park tie can go ahead
    as originally scheduled, as long as both Irish authorities were in full
    agreement.
    
    It was also stated that the situation would be monitored on a regular
    basis in case of a further escalation in violence.
    
    Cheers....Ned

    With the spate of murders at the moment, I would not feel safe at any
    venue where both the Irish teams were playing. Immagine the panic if
    there was a bomb hoax, or even worse, the real thing. It is the kind of
    think that some of the more cretinous members of the extreme
    orginisations would do. I think it should be played ona neutral ground,
    somewhere safer, like Beruit or Somalia.
    
    Rich.

    
    Are you still going up for the game Gary ?
    
    
    

    
    >Are you still going up for the game Gary ?
    
    Yes, I'm still going.  I know my way around and should be able to avoid
    trouble.
    
    A friend who was at all the other qualifiers and even wen tto NI v
    Lithuania with me isn't going however.  A few others are having second
    thoughts too.
    
    Gary.

    
    The present trouble reduced the attendance at a major Gaelic Football
    game in Casement Park, Belfast, between Derry and Donegal to half the 
    expected croud, only 10 to 12 thousand turned up. It just makes you 
    wonder what the attendance is going to be like at the International.
    If I were back home I would go to the game, but how many wouldn't?
    
    Se�n
    

  There is a rumour going around at the moment that the game on Nov 17th may
be switched to Old Trafford. I don't know if this will turn out to be true or
not but this would suit us just fine.

Stay tuned.............

C U N N O

    
    	Any idea where the rumour came from ? was it a reliable source ?
    
    	Se�n