Last Wednesday Ireland were playing France. It was the World Cup Qualifier, guaranteed to send the winner to South Africa. Ireland were already 1-0 down as France had scored an away goal the previous week.

What a match. Ireland were AMAZING! A small-country team with average players, and we were leading France along a merry dance around the pitch. France were struggling in their own half, and the shots were coming like wildfire for Ireland. Only problem was, we couldn't get the ball in the net.

And then, in the 32nd minute: Robbie Keane Scores
Amazing goal. The run Duff made to save that ball from going wide was amazing, this was a team that could keep Ireland out of the World Cup.

Second half was action packed, but no scores. Plenty of shots, though. So we go to extra time. And then, France score.

Okay, watch this:


I have no problem losing to the better team, but this is depressing. The free kick was an offside, but even worse, Henry handballed to get the goal. TWICE!



Such blatent rule-breaking from an inspirational player is disgraceful. But even worse is the fact that the linesman missed the offside and the double handball. I was watching this in a crowded pub and people were nearly in tears. And watching the irish team's reaction was enough to break your heart.



We've appealed for a replay, but FIFA won't have it. It's a damned shame, and Thierry Henry will be remembered forever.





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