I get that sooper, but can't understand how 'tensions' between the countries' equates to them not playing a game of football in a competitive competition against each other. If either of the two refused to play against the other 'cos of these 'tensions' then surely they should forfeit the match. It sets a very dangerous precidence IMO.
It doesn't set any precedent to honest Stainsy. Countries (Is Gibraltar even a Country?) have been separated from one another by FIFA and UEFA for political reasons for as long as I can remember. The most obvious example being Israel competing in Europe even though its in the Middle East! As far as I can remember, a couple of former Yugoslav Countries were kept apart during the troubled times over there too. I'd say there are other examples too if anyone's inclined to research it. I do take your point though mate. What I'm wondering is, why were Gibraltar even admitted by UEFA in the first place? Aren't there already too many Mickey Mouse Islands and territories who are whipping boys during every single campaign?
Apparently the decision was made by UEFA's exec committee in December. I agree with your perspective but that's their decision and it was ironic that Gib came out in the Spanish group as if to emphasise the stupidity of the decision...
TBH, I didn't realise this sort of thing had happened before Swords. I always thought the Balkan states played and have played each other, except at times when they were at actual war. And as for Isreal, doesn't it still consider itself at war with certain countries around it (I'm not stating fact, just asking the question). Anymore examples ??
I'm surprised Stainsey, thought you would be all over this. Spain doesn't recognise Gibraltar's right to exist, the people who live in Gibraltar want to retain their 200 + year old link to the UK. Just like the Falklands in fact, though we can only hope it doesn't come to fighting, just the rather petty inconveniences the Spanish place on Gibraltans at the moment. Does playing a football match against a representative team from a place you think should not exist imply tacit acceptance of its existence? Who knows, or cares, but any belief that sport and politics should be entirely separate is a little naive. I've spent a few hours in Gibraltar and, in my considered opinion, it can best be described as a toilet. Do the people who live there deserve the right to determine their own future? Just as much as people in Scotland, or Bristol do I suppose. Why do the Spanish want it back? I have no idea.
Thanks mate, never knew it was UEFA who made the decision. Did Gibralter get a harder group because of this ??
That makes a bit more sense now, thanks mate. Had no idea that Spain didn't recognise Gibralter as a 'state'. Maybe that goes to explain the 'Israel' situation, as I think many middle eastern countries don't recognise the state of Israel Another day....another gem of knowledge...thanks lads
No, they've ended up in the Group of Drink. The German reaction sounds about right: DFB President "Die Iren und Schotten werden Spuren der Sympathie und viele leere Bierfässer hinterlassen"
Oh Christ, here we go. I'm probably wrong about the history Swords, and frankly have very little interest in this anomaly of a place, so I'll agree with you in advance to save time. As a pathetic attempt to distract you, I'm reading the Hitchens autobiography Hitch 22, predictably beautifully written and very interesting, especially his family background. Highly recommended, if you haven't read it already.
I've not read it Stan. I must get it though. BTW, your Sig. Is that from Withnail and I? Great film. Good choice Sir. (PS Did you get my post the other night, 8th down on this page http://www.not606.com/showthread.php/250928-OT-Six-Nations/page4)
It is from Withnail which would be my Desert Island film. Danny is giving advice to 'I' who is having a panic attack after a couple of tokes on the Camberwell Carrot. very prescient re the rugby, what a great match that was, no shame in losing that one.
Countries below a certain level in the rankings should have to go through a pre-qualification. There's no need for the likes of San Marino to be in it every time just to get thumped 6-0 every time. It would do them more good to play more competitive and winnable games too.
