Ahern calls for replay after handball win
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Thursday November 19 2009
Justice Minister Dermot Ahern has demanded a rematch after a blatant handball put France into the football World Cup finals.
Ahern lashed out at governing body Fifa after the Republic was cruelly beaten by a controversial extra-time goal illegally set up by French captain Thierry Henry.
Dubbed "Le Hand", the Barcelona star confessed to using his arm to control the ball before squaring for teammate William Gallas to finish.
Mr Ahern, a passionate soccer fan, called for Fifa to be called to account in the interests of fair play.
"They probably won't grant it as we are minnows in world football but let's put them on the spot," the minister said. "It's the least we owe the thousands of devastated young fans around the country. Otherwise, if that result remains, it reinforces the view that if you cheat, you will win."
Ireland have been widely praised as the better side over the two-leg play-off.
Fans were already up in arms after Fifa changed world seedings in the run-up to the play-off draw, effectively lining Ireland up for a difficult tie with one of Europe's bigger footballing nations.
Pundits also said officials missed an offside in the run-up to the winning goal. "Thierry Henry has admitted handling the ball, claims he told the ref he handled it," the minister said. "Millions of people worldwide saw it was a blatant double handball - not to mention a double offside - and we should put the powers that be in the cosy world of Fifa on the spot and demand a replay."
The Republic's assistant manager Liam Brady also backed calls for a replay. "For the dignity and integrity of football, we will go to France and play again," the coach said.
"(Fifa president) Sepp Blatter goes on about fair play - let him reflect on what happened last night. Where is football going if a team is cheated out of fair play? Where are we going if this decision stands?"
Do you feel a grave injustice has been commited against Ireland? Should the match be replayed? Should Henry be banned? E-mail us your thoughts
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