New crossborder tournament: Unite the Union Champions Cup

[Kiki Balboa]

I was in the main stand also and could hear very little from the Shed. They were quieter than usual.

I think I hear a variation of the "We know what we are, Champions of Ireland etc" at one point. It sounded like "You know what you are. You're Irish. You know what you are." Certainly the Linfield officials close to me in the stand were laughing at that one.

Your only here for your Passports . :)

On a different issue, just how bad were Linfield. Sure they were missing the striker, but they got their tactics totally wrong. Gave acres to McGrath and Duffy, and folded badly. Felt bad for their decent travelling fans/

[mrtndvn]

The political pontification on social media is verging on the absurd. One chap even thinks that the NIFL can sort out these issues for us


https://twitter.com/mrtndvn1/status/1193997125396369415

Surely thats not you mrtndvn?

Get the old sarcasm detector on there. It was a common theme among NIFL fans that we were asking for an AIL to save ourselves.

[ToberonaTornado]

Jaysus Wept- some of the stupid faux outraged comments on this! :rolleyes:

6 fine goals by Dundalk tonight to sweep aside Linfield.Brilliant display by the Lilywhites to round off a magnificent year.
Bob Bensons prob the best of the half-dozen we put past them.
Him announcing he's leaving us is prob the worst thing that happened in OP tonight.

I'm praying for a lot of yee,any wonder LOI fora are totally screwed these days when you see the crap that's going on in here.

[DCWA]

I have to view this “sectarian chanting” stuff in a different light to everyone else here as regards it’s impact on a possible AIL.

Surely if the main gripe as regards fans following two games between Dundalk and Linfield is merely some chanting and half a dozen flags (and that is not to condone either of those) then this bodes well for an AIL in the near future?

In the not so distant past the genuine concern was violence not chanting, in fact I wonder without social media acting as the fuel to the fire how much airtime some chants would actually get.

Not nice but it’s a football game, no big deal in my opinion and certainly a gross over reaction to say in it any way puts paid to hopes of or plans for an AIL.

[ToberonaTornado]

You might think that's acceptable, but you clearly don't have to deal with the ramifications of it.

Some of us are from an area of the Island where Irish people have been discriminated against for years. Where are now facing a huge challenge in Brexit, where things will most certainly get worse for those areas, and if you think nights like tonight will encourage the unionist people to a new or united ireland, it won't.

Some of us are trying to move on and improve parts of this island that need it most. This **** is most unhelpful.

Never mind a new Ireland, even a basic AIL is hugely damaged by tonight.

Without a doubt this is the stupidest post i have ever read on any LOI forum.****ING EVER!!

I won't even tell you why,you figure that out all by yourself.

UN FCUKING BELIEVABLE NONSENSE DUDE.:rolleyes:

[Ezeikial]

Anxious to fill in the gaps, I checked some media reports to read some impartial reports on this crowd misbehaviour. Heck I even looked for some partial ones from the more sensationalist media. Amazingly all I could find were reports that detailed the magnificent performance by Dundalk in the 6-0 win.


Surely the Sun will be apoplectic with rage on the de-railing of a New Ireland nation and AIL that occurred last night?

Nope, it seems Owen Cowzer missed it too


There were justified concerns that the clash could be marred by sectarian chanting after a small minority made their voices heard during Friday’s first leg at Windsor Park.


If anything, Oriel Park was a little quiet.
That bodes well for the future of either this competition or a potential all-island league.


https://www.thesun.ie/sport/football/4764085/dundalk-linfield-unite-the-union-cup-2/?utm_term=Autofeed&utm_medium=Social&utm_source=Twitter#Echobox=1573526941

[ArFella]

Did anyone on here honestly expect that there would be no sectarian chanting? It was an Irish border town vs the biggest team from NI, football is tribalistic and there is 2 fairly significant tribes these 2 sets of fans belong to. I thought the match was a great occasion, fair play to the massive number of Linfield fans for travelling down, I joined in the chanting (nothing too outrageous just the usual Celtic Symphony and a few funny passport jibes, I've far more offensive ones, usually reserved for Drogs & Shams), had a great time and was delighted to see there were no incidents of violence before or after the match. To claim OUTRAGE and that the concept of an All-Island League is dead because of a few songs is an absolute joke and virtue signalling at best. People who use this as reason to derail the AIL never had any interest in it in the first place, the final score is probably a bigger deterrent to IL clubs than any songs or flags. Anyway Dundalk FC Champions of All-Ireland, what a season that was despite the FAI Cup disappointment, roll on next season!

[White Horse]

I was surprised at how many people were triggered on social media last night.

We live on a divided island that has an unresolved political issue. If you look at any comparable area with a geo-political conflict, the fact that the game could be held safely, with mutual goodwill being extended by the vast majority of attendees was a positive sign.

I don't know whether the outrage is due to the influence of the snowflake generation or an opportunity being grasped by those opposed to an all island league.

Probably a bit of both. Also, add in the disdain some other fans feel for Dundalk fans.

[Ezeikial]

I was surprised at how many people were triggered on social media last night.

We live on a divided island that has an unresolved political issue. If you look at any comparable area with a geo-political conflict, the fact that the game could be held safely, with mutual goodwill being extended by the vast majority of attendees was a positive sign.

I don't know whether the outrage is due to the influence of the snowflake generation or an opportunity being grasped by those opposed to an all island league.

Probably a bit of both. Also, add in the disdain some other fans feel for Dundalk fans.


In my opinion, for some it is probably a genuine abhorrence of anything sectarian.

For many more, I think it is the social media induce snowflake mentality of wanting to be offended or outraged - there are many double standard hypocrites in this category.

And then there are those who identify with other tribes (clubs) who are envious or jealous of a rivals success.

The vast majority who fall into the latter categories claim (and maybe even believe) they are in the first category

[Real ale Madrid]

I don't know whether the outrage is due to the influence of the snowflake generation or an opportunity being grasped by those opposed to an all island league.




For many more, I think it is the social media induce snowflake mentality of wanting to be offended or outraged - there are many double standard hypocrites in this category.


There it is again - the most overused word in the English language now. Sigh.

There has been more posts lamenting social media here now then there was social media posts about the chanting.

[Mr_Parker]

I think some are missing the bigger picture. In the NIFL, there have been year on year improvements in dealing with supporter behaviour, particularly with offensive chants and banners. Yes it pops up now and again, but it is the exception, not the rule. When it does occur, clubs are generally quick to take action to deal with those responsible. E.g. Cliftonville played Linfield twice recently. At the first game there were issues which both clubs attempted to deal with on the night, but in the middle of a game it is not always to do more than minimise such, as it can inflame a situation. However, for the next game action was taken, including the identification of some of those involved and several were refused entry. There were no such issues at the 2nd game.

With all the talk of an AIL, many were looking to see the 2 games between Linfield and Dundalk as a sort of measure of a potential future league, both on and off the pitch. The off pitch issues have and will be focussed on by supporters of a losing team. That is natural and happens over all sorts of issues, not just offensive songs etc. Therefore what has happened has been viewed by many as a microcosm of what an AIL might hold. People focus on Linfield given the past, but there are other clubs who if playing in an AIL could give rise to bigger reactions/issues to their presence at a LOI ground. Therefore, many view that an AIL could reignite many of the issues that have been nearly extinguished in the NIFL.

However, the football on the pitch aside, from reading their comments post last night, it was not the songs that did most damage to support from Linfield supporters, and indeed many other NIFL team supporters, for an AIL, it was how they were treated like cattle just to go to a game. They had to meet in Banbridge at 4pm. Then they had to get on buses and be transported to the game. They then travelled by back roads, lights had to be kept off on the bus, only arriving at the ground some 3 hours later just as the teams were coming out. Normally a 30 min journey. That's what they and fans of other NIFL clubs view as a possible future in an AIL just to support their team at an away game. Fans will quickly vote with their feet.

[ToberonaTornado]

I think some are missing the bigger picture. In the NIFL, there have been year on year improvements in dealing with supporter behaviour, particularly with offensive chants and banners. Yes it pops up now and again, but it is the exception, not the rule. When it does occur, clubs are generally quick to take action to deal with those responsible. E.g. Cliftonville played Linfield twice recently. At the first game there were issues which both clubs attempted to deal with on the night, but in the middle of a game it is not always to do more than minimise such, as it can inflame a situation. However, for the next game action was taken, including the identification of some of those involved and several were refused entry. There were no such issues at the 2nd game.

With all the talk of an AIL, many were looking to see the 2 games between Linfield and Dundalk as a sort of measure of a potential future league, both on and off the pitch. The off pitch issues have and will be focussed on by supporters of a losing team. That is natural and happens over all sorts of issues, not just offensive songs etc. Therefore what has happened has been viewed by many as a microcosm of what an AIL might hold. People focus on Linfield given the past, but there are other clubs who if playing in an AIL could give rise to bigger reactions/issues to their presence at a LOI ground. Therefore, many view that an AIL could reignite many of the issues that have been nearly extinguished in the NIFL.

However, the football on the pitch aside, from reading their comments post last night, it was not the songs that did most damage to support from Linfield supporters, and indeed many other NIFL team supporters, for an AIL, it was how they were treated like cattle just to go to a game. They had to meet in Banbridge at 4pm. Then they had to get on buses and be transported to the game. They then travelled by back roads, lights had to be kept off on the bus, only arriving at the ground some 3 hours later just as the teams were coming out. Normally a 30 min journey. That's what they and fans of other NIFL clubs view as a possible future in an AIL just to support their team at an away game. Fans will quickly vote with their feet.

AGS haven't a clue when it comes to handling crowds at - "SOCCER" - matches.
I don't buy into the crap that an overturned lorry on the A/M1 created the delay for Linfield fans getting to OP.:D
It's all small detail though,they're an adaptable force who can learn quickly from the psni.:p

[White Horse]

AGS haven't a clue when it comes to handling crowds at - "SOCCER" - matches.
I don't buy into the crap that an overturned lorry on the A/M1 created the delay for Linfield fans getting to OP.:D
It's all small detail though,they're an adaptable force who can learn quickly from the psni.:p

It was obviously planned that their bus would arrive at Oriel 5 minutes before kick off. They appear to have had to take a scenic tour around north County Louth as they arrived earlier than expected. The Guards closed the Carrick road to traffic, erected barricades and escorted the fans into the away section.

There is no way I would go to an away match is these circumstances.

For all the horror being mouthed by snowflakes about political chants, this is the issue that would get to me most as a fan.

It was humiliating night for Linfield fans. To see them taking down their "No Surrender" flag at halftime out of embarrassment almost brought a sympathetic tear to my eye.

[Ezeikial]

However, the football on the pitch aside, from reading their comments post last night, it was not the songs that did most damage to support from Linfield supporters, and indeed many other NIFL team supporters, for an AIL, it was how they were treated like cattle just to go to a game. They had to meet in Banbridge at 4pm. Then they had to get on buses and be transported to the game. They then travelled by back roads, lights had to be kept off on the bus, only arriving at the ground some 3 hours later just as the teams were coming out. Normally a 30 min journey. That's what they and fans of other NIFL clubs view as a possible future in an AIL just to support their team at an away game. Fans will quickly vote with their feet.


It was obviously planned that their bus would arrive at Oriel 5 minutes before kick off. They appear to have had to take a scenic tour around north County Louth as they arrived earlier than expected. The Guards closed the Carrick road to traffic, erected barricades and escorted the fans into the away section.

There is no way I would go to an away match is these circumstances.

For all the horror being mouthed by snowflakes about political chants, this is the issue that would get to me most as a fan.

It was humiliating night for Linfield fans. To see them taking down their "No Surrender" flag at halftime out of embarrassment almost brought a sympathetic tear to my eye.

Getting stuffed on the pitch just added to the indignity of the whole overall experience for Linfield supporters

The poor conditions of the away section at Oriel Park is enough for visitors to have to endure, without the excessively restricted travel requirements.

The Linfield officials seem to have taken a fair bit of flack as a result of these arrangements

[marinobohs]

I think some are missing the bigger picture. In the NIFL, there have been year on year improvements in dealing with supporter behaviour, particularly with offensive chants and banners. Yes it pops up now and again, but it is the exception, not the rule. When it does occur, clubs are generally quick to take action to deal with those responsible. E.g. Cliftonville played Linfield twice recently. At the first game there were issues which both clubs attempted to deal with on the night, but in the middle of a game it is not always to do more than minimise such, as it can inflame a situation. However, for the next game action was taken, including the identification of some of those involved and several were refused entry. There were no such issues at the 2nd game.

With all the talk of an AIL, many were looking to see the 2 games between Linfield and Dundalk as a sort of measure of a potential future league, both on and off the pitch. The off pitch issues have and will be focussed on by supporters of a losing team. That is natural and happens over all sorts of issues, not just offensive songs etc. Therefore what has happened has been viewed by many as a microcosm of what an AIL might hold. People focus on Linfield given the past, but there are other clubs who if playing in an AIL could give rise to bigger reactions/issues to their presence at a LOI ground. Therefore, many view that an AIL could reignite many of the issues that have been nearly extinguished in the NIFL.

However, the football on the pitch aside, from reading their comments post last night, it was not the songs that did most damage to support from Linfield supporters, and indeed many other NIFL team supporters, for an AIL, it was how they were treated like cattle just to go to a game. They had to meet in Banbridge at 4pm. Then they had to get on buses and be transported to the game. They then travelled by back roads, lights had to be kept off on the bus, only arriving at the ground some 3 hours later just as the teams were coming out. Normally a 30 min journey. That's what they and fans of other NIFL clubs view as a possible future in an AIL just to support their team at an away game. Fans will quickly vote with their feet.

That was certainly NOT the experience of NIFL fans during the Setanta Cup. I personally saw fans from many NIFL clubs drinking in the bars in Dalymount prior to matches and I know it happened elsewhere across the LOI. I cant speak about why the police (PSNI/AGS) decided on the arrangements for this game but Brexit debacle (heightened tensions), one off nature of match and the generally crap set up at Oriel Park probably contributed. To suggest that is an accurate example of what an AIL match would be like is simply ridiculous.

[DCWA]

Certainly the measures put in place for Linfield fans travelling are not suitable and feasible on any kind of long terms basis but again have to viewed in perspective. Any logical thinking would lead us to security operations around games being significantlyt refined over the course of the first few years. Also likely that these games becoming the norm would make them more mundane to those that might pose a trouble risk.

Again not a barrier to an AIL although of course I back the view that no set of football fans should be treated like that but these are things that can be overcome.

All in all there was no major incidents over the course of the two games in fact no incidents of any note really that is the bottom line.

Over the top security operation and dodgy chants? Hardly new for football anywhere.

[Mr_Parker]

That was certainly NOT the experience of NIFL fans during the Setanta Cup. I personally saw fans from many NIFL clubs drinking in the bars in Dalymount prior to matches and I know it happened elsewhere across the LOI. I cant speak about why the police (PSNI/AGS) decided on the arrangements for this game but Brexit debacle (heightened tensions), one off nature of match and the generally crap set up at Oriel Park probably contributed. To suggest that is an accurate example of what an AIL match would be like is simply ridiculous.

I am talking about the perception that will now be held in regards to an AIL.

[ArFella]

The AIL will not be happening any time soon and fan chants and security reasons will be very far down the long list of reasons it won't happen, the top of that list will be all to do with €€€/£££, too many blazers would lose their cushy number, clubs will lose out on UEFA money, etc, etc.

[Mr A]

I think we can all agree that both clubs were a disgrace and should be deducted 50 points each for next season.

[SkStu]

Without a doubt this is the stupidest post i have ever read on any LOI forum.****ING EVER!!

I won't even tell you why,you figure that out all by yourself.

UN FCUKING BELIEVABLE NONSENSE DUDE.:rolleyes:

Steady on there, Bart Simpson! Attack the post, not the poster.

[MattB11]

Last 20 minutes or so of their teams season and about to win the teams third piece of silverware of the season and those dunderheads stood belting out the fields of athenry and the celtic symphony, absolute embarrassment

[marinobohs]

Last 20 minutes or so of their teams season and about to win the teams third piece of silverware of the season and those dunderheads stood belting out the fields of athenry and the celtic symphony, absolute embarrassment

Yet when Munster rugby fans 'belt out' the same song...…

[dundalkfc10]

It was obviously planned that their bus would arrive at Oriel 5 minutes before kick off. They appear to have had to take a scenic tour around north County Louth as they arrived earlier than expected. The Guards closed the Carrick road to traffic, erected barricades and escorted the fans into the away section.

There is no way I would go to an away match is these circumstances.

For all the horror being mouthed by snowflakes about political chants, this is the issue that would get to me most as a fan.

It was humiliating night for Linfield fans. To see them taking down their "No Surrender" flag at halftime out of embarrassment almost brought a sympathetic tear to my eye.

They tried to leave at half time and were told by Gardai they would have to wait until the end

[ArFella]

Last 20 minutes or so of their teams season and about to win the teams third piece of silverware of the season and those dunderheads stood belting out the fields of athenry and the celtic symphony, absolute embarrassment

*fourth... absolute embarrassment

[trevy]

I doubt if many Linfield fans would come down again for the same fixture next year given the tight travel and security measures, the hammering they took and the provocative chanting of some Dundalk fans. The fact that the tv cameras and microphones are at the Shed side of the ground where Dundalk's more noisy fans go probably made the chanting sound worse on tv than to fans on the other side of the ground.
Congratulations to Dundalk for their performance on the night and picking up 3 trophies in one season is a great achievement.

[Ezeikial]

*fourth**... absolute embarrassment



Congratulations to Dundalk for their performance on the night and picking up 3 trophies** in one season is a great achievement.

** Fifth..... if you count the Malone Cup. (https://www.dundalkfc.com/dundalk-win-malone-cup/) when Georgie Kelly got a hatrick

[EatYerGreens]

I think some are missing the bigger picture. In the NIFL, there have been year on year improvements in dealing with supporter behaviour, particularly with offensive chants and banners. Yes it pops up now and again, but it is the exception, not the rule. When it does occur, clubs are generally quick to take action to deal with those responsible. E.g. Cliftonville played Linfield twice recently. At the first game there were issues which both clubs attempted to deal with on the night, but in the middle of a game it is not always to do more than minimise such, as it can inflame a situation. However, for the next game action was taken, including the identification of some of those involved and several were refused entry. There were no such issues at the 2nd game.

With all the talk of an AIL, many were looking to see the 2 games between Linfield and Dundalk as a sort of measure of a potential future league, both on and off the pitch. The off pitch issues have and will be focussed on by supporters of a losing team. That is natural and happens over all sorts of issues, not just offensive songs etc. Therefore what has happened has been viewed by many as a microcosm of what an AIL might hold. People focus on Linfield given the past, but there are other clubs who if playing in an AIL could give rise to bigger reactions/issues to their presence at a LOI ground. Therefore, many view that an AIL could reignite many of the issues that have been nearly extinguished in the NIFL.

However, the football on the pitch aside, from reading their comments post last night, it was not the songs that did most damage to support from Linfield supporters, and indeed many other NIFL team supporters, for an AIL, it was how they were treated like cattle just to go to a game. They had to meet in Banbridge at 4pm. Then they had to get on buses and be transported to the game. They then travelled by back roads, lights had to be kept off on the bus, only arriving at the ground some 3 hours later just as the teams were coming out. Normally a 30 min journey. That's what they and fans of other NIFL clubs view as a possible future in an AIL just to support their team at an away game. Fans will quickly vote with their feet.

Surely an AIL could and would just do what was done in the examples you gave of the Cliftonville-Linfield matches ? i.e. identify the d!ckheads and take measures to root them out ?

This isn't beyond the wit of those promoting the AIL concept. And if anything they'd have a stronger motive to deal with it, as the entire project could be derailed by any such serious problems.

I don't know why or how you conclude this couldn't be addressed.

[EatYerGreens]

I think some are missing the bigger picture. In the NIFL, there have been year on year improvements in dealing with supporter behaviour, particularly with offensive chants and banners. Yes it pops up now and again, but it is the exception, not the rule. When it does occur, clubs are generally quick to take action to deal with those responsible. E.g. Cliftonville played Linfield twice recently. At the first game there were issues which both clubs attempted to deal with on the night, but in the middle of a game it is not always to do more than minimise such, as it can inflame a situation. However, for the next game action was taken, including the identification of some of those involved and several were refused entry. There were no such issues at the 2nd game.

With all the talk of an AIL, many were looking to see the 2 games between Linfield and Dundalk as a sort of measure of a potential future league, both on and off the pitch. The off pitch issues have and will be focussed on by supporters of a losing team. That is natural and happens over all sorts of issues, not just offensive songs etc. Therefore what has happened has been viewed by many as a microcosm of what an AIL might hold. People focus on Linfield given the past, but there are other clubs who if playing in an AIL could give rise to bigger reactions/issues to their presence at a LOI ground. Therefore, many view that an AIL could reignite many of the issues that have been nearly extinguished in the NIFL.

However, the football on the pitch aside, from reading their comments post last night, it was not the songs that did most damage to support from Linfield supporters, and indeed many other NIFL team supporters, for an AIL, it was how they were treated like cattle just to go to a game. They had to meet in Banbridge at 4pm. Then they had to get on buses and be transported to the game. They then travelled by back roads, lights had to be kept off on the bus, only arriving at the ground some 3 hours later just as the teams were coming out. Normally a 30 min journey. That's what they and fans of other NIFL clubs view as a possible future in an AIL just to support their team at an away game. Fans will quickly vote with their feet.

This is because it was essentially a one-off event with no precedent. Hence over-the-top measures were taken to mitigate against any trouble.

If these sorts of fixtures were happening week in week out across the island, then the police both sides of the border would a) know exactly what level of risk and issues they were dealing with, rather than assume the worst, and b) Chill the fcuk out about it all.

You can't take an exceptional event and try to translate it into ongoing/everyday circumstance.

[Nesta99]

Imagine the outrage if there had been some significant incident and full security hadnt been in place!! I agree that as such fixtures became more frequent that arrangments would be less severe assuming no problems occured. Without wanting another dose of Oriel Park bashing if there wasnt the need to have all supporters enter the ground via the same route I think the arrangements in place for Dundalk fans going to Windsor would have been applied, an advisory rather than compulsory travel on club coaches. Its a valid observation made earlier that it must have been prearranged to arrive minutes before kick-off and hence the ridiculous situation of driving around North Louth killing time.

[marinobohs]

This is because it was essentially a one-off event with no precedent. Hence over-the-top measures were taken to mitigate against any trouble.

If these sorts of fixtures were happening week in week out across the island, then the police both sides of the border would a) know exactly what level of risk and issues they were dealing with, rather than assume the worst, and b) Chill the fcuk out about it all.

You can't take an exceptional event and try to translate it into ongoing/everyday circumstance.

I suspect the silly sectarian chanting would also lessen (there will always be one or two) if/when matches became more frequent. there is a novelty element to 'one off' matches but I doubt if the silliness would be replicated on a weekly basis.
Its honestly a bit snow flake to oppose an AIL because a few clowns sang some RA song(s) and even more so to whine about the 'Fields of Athenry'. If people want to be offended they will find something to be offended about, personally I don't like the UDA/UVF but hearing people singing about them never stopped me attending matches in the SETANTA and I never met anybody who cited it as a reason not to attend.

[Steve Bruce]

I suspect the silly sectarian chanting would also lessen (there will always be one or two) if/when matches became more frequent. there is a novelty element to 'one off' matches but I doubt if the silliness would be replicated on a weekly basis.
Its honestly a bit snow flake to oppose an AIL because a few clowns sang some RA song(s) and even more so to whine about the 'Fields of Athenry'. If people want to be offended they will find something to be offended about, personally I don't like the UDA/UVF but hearing people singing about them never stopped me attending matches in the SETANTA and I never met anybody who cited it as a reason not to attend.

That's all well and good branding people snowflakes, but you have to think of why it's enough to not want an AIL.

The Irish League was blighted by sectarianism for decades, it has taken a massive effort for a lot of clubs to minimise it to the point where 99% of games you wouldn't hear anything sectarian.

It's a major reason families are slowly coming back to local football. Our crowds are up across the league by 45% compared to 10 years ago.

To leave what is a growing steady league, that everyone has helped to make more enjoyable for everyone, to leave it for an AIL that has nothing concrete, a potential major upsurge in sectarianism and supporters having to be sneaked into grounds in the dead of darkness for a football game, a journey that should take 35mins tops but took near 3 hours.

I think, a competition, with decent money in it, tv deal comprising of the top 3 in each league plus the two Cup winners playing in 2 mini leagues, the winners and runners up qualify to semis and then we have a final. This is the way forward until the supporters are familiar to each others teams and the stupid stuff is knocked on the head, or at least minimised to a tolerable level that it's easy ignored.

[marinobohs]

That's all well and good branding people snowflakes, but you have to think of why it's enough to not want an AIL.

The Irish League was blighted by sectarianism for decades, it has taken a massive effort for a lot of clubs to minimise it to the point where 99% of games you wouldn't hear anything sectarian.

It's a major reason families are slowly coming back to local football. Our crowds are up across the league by 45% compared to 10 years ago.

To leave what is a growing steady league, that everyone has helped to make more enjoyable for everyone, to leave it for an AIL that has nothing concrete, a potential major upsurge in sectarianism and supporters having to be sneaked into grounds in the dead of darkness for a football game, a journey that should take 35mins tops but took near 3 hours.

I think, a competition, with decent money in it, tv deal comprising of the top 3 in each league plus the two Cup winners playing in 2 mini leagues, the winners and runners up qualify to semis and then we have a final. This is the way forward until the supporters are familiar to each others teams and the stupid stuff is knocked on the head, or at least minimised to a tolerable level that it's easy ignored.

The level of sectarianism in IL was a damn sight more than a few muppets singing “The fields” . The fact there was NO incidents at Oriel is positive. Getting “offended” by a few numpties singing songs is pure snowflake stuff. You would hear worse in any League in the World.
If that’s the benchmark it’s purely because people don’t want an AIL for other reasons.

[Nesta99]

Can 'snowflake' be banned as a term?

[DCWA]

That's all well and good branding people snowflakes, but you have to think of why it's enough to not want an AIL.


No you don’t. It is simply not enough of to not want an AIL.

Genuinely I am perplexed that this has prompted such widespread comment here and elsewhere.

A few dodgy chants and and the cops being OTT the only issues arising from this game when the two teams play each other less than once in a blue moon. How can this be considered anything other than a success off the pitch? Literally no significant incidents whatsoever.

There are Premier League games, SPL games etc that this happens every single season (this isn’t just restricted to high profile derbies/rivalries) and these teams play each other twice a year.

Anyone who considers a few chants to be a genuine obstacle to completely reforming the game on this island needs their head checked.

[EatYerGreens]

Yet when Munster rugby fans 'belt out' the same song...…

The difference being that TFOA has become associated with Munster Rugby.

The idiots who sang it on Monday only did so because it's seen in football as a Glasgow Celtic song.

[EatYerGreens]

Can 'snowflake' be banned as a term?

Before its use starts to avalanche.

[Ezeikial]

Can 'snowflake' be banned as a term?

To protect the feelings of those who are self-obsessed and fragile, easily offended, or unable to deal with opposing opinions (https://www.thesun.co.uk/news/5115128/snowflake-generation-meaning-origin-term/)?

[marinobohs]

Can 'snowflake' be banned as a term?

I'm outraged that you are trying to ban a totally innocent term, how dare you. That's it, no AIL for me :rolleyes:

[colonelwest]

OK boomers... *








*Please for all that is good in the world don't start bringing these sort of terms into threads, seeing them everywhere on social media non stop is bad enough. They're not clever, kills genuine conversation and doesn't win you any internetz pointz lads. Thanks for reading my Ted Talk.

[Steve Bruce]

The level of sectarianism in IL was a damn sight more than a few muppets singing “The fields” . The fact there was NO incidents at Oriel is positive. Getting “offended” by a few numpties singing songs is pure snowflake stuff. You would hear worse in any League in the World.
If that’s the benchmark it’s purely because people don’t want an AIL for other reasons.

"The Fields" wasn't the issue, it was the IRA songs, anti British Songs that where the issue. The fact that you and some others seem to brush it off so lightly, reinforces why it is an issue. If you don't see a problem then how can it be solved? Or more like, if you see people are finding it a problem, you would rather call them snowflakes than acknowledge the issue and deal with it. Either way it's not a good look to attract all sides of the community is it?

Also I don't know anyone who has this as the sole reason for not wanting an AIL, it is one part of it. The biggest part is Lucid's 2 year planning of the AIL is all fart and no ****e. Their is nothing of substance whatsoever.

[Steve Bruce]

No you don’t. It is simply not enough of to not want an AIL.

Genuinely I am perplexed that this has prompted such widespread comment here and elsewhere.

A few dodgy chants and and the cops being OTT the only issues arising from this game when the two teams play each other less than once in a blue moon. How can this be considered anything other than a success off the pitch? Literally no significant incidents whatsoever.

There are Premier League games, SPL games etc that this happens every single season (this isn’t just restricted to high profile derbies/rivalries) and these teams play each other twice a year.

Anyone who considers a few chants to be a genuine obstacle to completely reforming the game on this island needs their head checked.


Again another who just sweeps it under the carpet. It wasn't a few chants, it was considerably more than that. The Hoops linfield supporters had to go through to get to the game was ridiculous, it should never take 3 hours to make a 35minute journey.



Can I also say, their is nothing wrong with just rejecting the idea of an AIL just because people like it as it is. I actually don't understand why any of you would want an AIL? What would the introduction of a few Northern Ireland teams actually do to enhance the game? Do you think Galway vs Linfield is going to garner massive crowds over and above a top Dublin side going to Galway?

We have two leagues that are getting pittance from TV and sponsorship, why do people thing putting them together is going to generate millions in revenue more than we do right now? It's a hollow proposal from lucid and it's a hollow dream.

[Steve Bruce]

I'm outraged that you are trying to ban a totally innocent term, how dare you. That's it, no AIL for me :rolleyes:

So your just a WUM then. No real debate from you, just soundbites and and sarcasm.

Good to know, I wish I had of read this post before posting the last one quoting you.

[dundalkfc10]

Again another who just sweeps it under the carpet. It wasn't a few chants, it was considerably more than that. The Hoops linfield supporters had to go through to get to the game was ridiculous, it should never take 3 hours to make a 35minute journey.



Can I also say, their is nothing wrong with just rejecting the idea of an AIL just because people like it as it is. I actually don't understand why any of you would want an AIL? What would the introduction of a few Northern Ireland teams actually do to enhance the game? Do you think Galway vs Linfield is going to garner massive crowds over and above a top Dublin side going to Galway?

We have two leagues that are getting pittance from TV and sponsorship, why do people thing putting them together is going to generate millions in revenue more than we do right now? It's a hollow proposal from lucid and it's a hollow dream.

It was a few chants, In Windsor it was about 20 teenagers on both sides.

I couldnt hear the Linfield fans from Shed on Monday, but again in Dundalk section it was 20/30 teenagers who probably couldn't point out Belfast on a map! It just sounded louder as they stand directly under the TV cameras.

Ive seen more abuse by fans at a Dundalk v Rovers game, or Dundalk V Cork over past few years

[marinobohs]

So your just a WUM then. No real debate from you, just soundbites and and sarcasm.

Good to know, I wish I had of read this post before posting the last one quoting you.

That post was, quite clearly, a joke response to the one posted (and quoted) NOT yours. Jesus, with skin that thin its no wonder you were all upset about a few idiots being idiots.

As regards travel, you should take that up with PSNI and AGS, as has been said clearly those type of arrangements were certainly not the norm for SETANTA Cup games (including Linfield). And as for brushing it under the carpet, what exactly do you want ? its a few numpties making a fool of themselves, happens at every match (whether sectarian or not), honestly Dundalk fans got over the 'trauma':D of Israeli and Para regiment flags at Windsor - some of them didn't even need therapy !

The prospect of decent investment is exactly the attraction of an AIL, the prospect of developing the game here and providing a strong viable League that might be able to compete seriously in Europe are things I believe most fans want.

If you are cozy in your big fish/ small pond scenario fine. Some fans would genuinely hope for more.

[dundalkfc10]

That post was, quite clearly, a joke response to the one posted (and quoted) NOT yours. Jesus, with skin that thin its no wonder you were all upset about a few idiots being idiots.

As regards travel, you should take that up with PSNI and AGS, as has been said clearly those type of arrangements were certainly not the norm for SETANTA Cup games (including Linfield). And as for brushing it under the carpet, what exactly do you want ? its a few numpties making a fool of themselves, happens at every match (whether sectarian or not), honestly Dundalk fans got over the 'trauma':D of Israeli and Para regiment flags at Windsor - some of them didn't even need therapy !

The prospect of decent investment is exactly the attraction of an AIL, the prospect of developing the game here and providing a strong viable League that might be able to compete seriously in Europe are things I believe most fans want. I
If you are cozy in your big fish/ small pond scenario fine. Some fans would genuinely hope for more.

I laughed when I seen them to be honest. Best laugh was the Big No Surrender flag they had in Oriel with a Rangers crest on it, that they took down at half time because it was 3-0 :o

[DCWA]

Again another who just sweeps it under the carpet. It wasn't a few chants, it was considerably more than that. The Hoops linfield supporters had to go through to get to the game was ridiculous, it should never take 3 hours to make a 35minute journey.



Can I also say, their is nothing wrong with just rejecting the idea of an AIL just because people like it as it is. I actually don't understand why any of you would want an AIL? What would the introduction of a few Northern Ireland teams actually do to enhance the game? Do you think Galway vs Linfield is going to garner massive crowds over and above a top Dublin side going to Galway?

We have two leagues that are getting pittance from TV and sponsorship, why do people thing putting them together is going to generate millions in revenue more than we do right now? It's a hollow proposal from lucid and it's a hollow dream.


So it was chants. Happy to retract the “few”. Point still stands - it was chants. West Ham song about yids to Spurs. Utd and Liverpool about the Munich disaster and Hillsborough. This is at the very top end of football, the glamour clubs and clubs who play each other every single year but chants at a game between Dundalk and Linfield given the historical context and unique circumstances are enough of a reason to reject the idea of an AIL?

FWIW I have said in another post that the journey Linfield fans were forced to undertake is not feasible
and no football fan should endure such scrutiny and inconvenience - I have no counter argument there.

Also I haven’t voiced a for or against opinion on the AIL at all (for clarification I am for an AIL not necessarily in support of it right now or in support of Lucid’s plan).

Simply can’t have that unsavoury chanting is by any measure a good enough reason to reject the proposal.

[Martinho II]

So it was chants. Happy to retract the “few”. Point still stands - it was chants. West Ham song about yids to Spurs. Utd and Liverpool about the Munich disaster and Hillsborough. This is at the very top end of football, the glamour clubs and clubs who play each other every single year but chants at a game between Dundalk and Linfield given the historical context and unique circumstances are enough of a reason to reject the idea of an AIL?

FWIW I have said in another post that the journey Linfield fans were forced to undertake is not feasible
and no football fan should endure such scrutiny and inconvenience - I have no counter argument there.

Also I haven’t voiced a for or against opinion on the AIL at all (for clarification I am for an AIL not necessarily in support of it right now or in support of Lucid’s plan).

Simply can’t have that unsavoury chanting is by any measure a good enough reason to reject the proposal.

Can I ask DCWA what route did that bus go from Belfast to Dundalk as that is shocking bad. That must have travelled through the Mournes or something?

[DCWA]

Can I ask DCWA what route did that bus go from Belfast to Dundalk as that is shocking bad. That must have travelled through the Mournes or something?

Not sure if I am missing something here ? Consider myself embarrassed if I am but I don’t know what route they took ? Simply picking up that they had to meet at Banbridge the rattle round the depths of Co. Louth for a while.

[marinobohs]

Can I ask DCWA what route did that bus go from Belfast to Dundalk as that is shocking bad. That must have travelled through the Mournes or something?

Not sure, but it appears police didn't want them in Dundalk until near kick off time so driver was told to drive around North Louth for a time. Seems there was a major over reaction by police for this game. I heard Linfeild fans wishing to leave early (some at HT) were also stopped leaving the ground.

[placid casual]

[QUOTE=Steve Bruce;2023610 The Hoops linfield supporters had to go through to get to the game was ridiculous, it should never take 3 hours to make a 35minute journey.[/QUOTE]

I wasn't aware there was a Rovers fanclub link in with "delinfield!!".😀