The recent trend of a minority of fools to boo opposition players at Lansdowne Road has prompted the Football Association of Ireland to allow the National Anti-Racism Awareness Programme to carry a 25-foot banner onto the pitch before Thursday evening's friendly against Nigeria.
The trouble began at the March friendly against Denmark when a section of the crowd booed Danish player Peter Madsen, after he was mistakenly introduced as Rangers star Peter Lovendkrants by the stadium announcer.
It followed over to last month's US game, where Sunderland midfielder Claudio Reyna was the victim of taunts from a small segment of 'supporters'. Reyna was previously a Gers player.
Eddie Cox of the FAI said: "Unfortunately the past two friendly matches have seen the excellent reputation of the Irish fan being tarnished somewhat by the actions of a few. The booing of opposition players has never had a part in Irish internationals and we would call on the fans to show their true colours tonight, support the KNOW RACISM programme and give both teams the World Cup send-off they deserve."
Commenting on the programme Joe McDonagh, chairman of the 'KNOW RACISM' Programme and former President of the GAA said: "sporting bodies have a very positive role to play in creating a fairer society in which racism is not tolerated in any form.
"There is no place in our society for racism and where it exists we all have a duty to stamp it out. The 'KNOW RACISM' campaign is a significant step forward for us in raising awareness of the problem and educating people," he added.
This is the second time the KNOW RACISM banner has had a presence on the pitch at Lansdowne Road, having made its first appearance at the Ireland v Iran game in November 2001.
The overall aim of the 'KNOW RACISM' Programme is to contribute to creating the conditions for building an inclusive and intercultural society in Ireland where racism is effectively addressed and cultural diversity is valued. Today over 160 different nationalities live in Ireland.
setanta.com
