Man up and live your life
I am very easy going when things are important to someone, but your advice is only acceptable if his wife could also go out at a moments notice and leave him to do the unpacking. Woman up is what I would say to her!
She must know he's a Saints fan, so won't be surprised that he wants to see the match....he should promise to do his share later and make sure that she puts her feet up whilst he's out.

