I agree with that. I don't normally care about friendlies but do hope tonight justto stop the "you haven't beaten us since 1985" mularkey. The FA and FAI need their heads testing by agreeing to stage this game. It should only ever be played if we draw each other in the group stages. it's way too toxic and ripe for being hijacked by the lunatic fringe. I don't live too far from Wembley - I won't be going out tonight.
indeed Dan-- but in fairness it would have been planned a way ago, recent events were unforeseen--but as you say,the atmosphere will be 'tense' --and a high police presence will add to the irony of a 'friendly'......but to cancel would be wrong as well.......luckily i'm welsh so its nah bother from here--but shame for all the genuine fans.
It's not so much recent events that concern me in this case - everything could be sweetness and light and I still wouldn't play this particualr game. It's too high risk not just in the stadium but also in the surrounding areas where there's a very high number of Irish people and if things get nasty it will very quickly escalate. obbviously I hope I'm worng - with a metaphorical foot in both camps i really couldn't bear it!
Maybe I'm being naive Dan but I don't think there will be any trouble minuscule if any, the usual meatheads on both sides but no widespread riot.
EDL will use it as a display of 'force'-- expect some silly 'songs'-- if they get that racist **** going it will be interesting what the 'authorities' do ---turn a deaf ear a la montenegro...
If Ireland can play two nations with a large contingent of fans who hate Ireland with a passion and pass off relatively trouble free then I think, as I believe England to be far more mature than Scotland and Norn Iron, the hat-trick is on
