Uefa decision prompts Kerr wrath
Uefa decision prompts Kerr wrath
The decision by Uefa to impose venue sanctions on Georgia for the Euro 2004 Group 10 clash with Russia on April 30th has been criticised by Irish manager Brian Kerr.
An investigation was conducted into Georgia’s meeting with Ireland in Tbilisi on March 29 following several incidents of missile-throwing, the worst of which involved a pen-knife striking Kevin Kilbane.
But instead of punishing the Georgian federation with a fine, European football’s governing body has decided to make the former Soviet republic play their next home match – against Group 10 favourites Russia in a fortnight’s time – behind closed doors.
With Ireland and Switzerland already having experienced the tempestuous atmosphere of the Lokomotiv Stadium, Kerr believes the Russians have been handed a significant advantage with Uefa’s decision.
He said: “It’s a massive disappointment, seeing as ourselves and the Swiss had to play there in front of a hostile and volatile crowd.
“I feel Uefa have handed an unfair advantage to Russia and the decision saddens me greatly.”
Kerr had been hoping that common sense would prevail, and that Uefa could impose a nominal fine on Georgia, who, as one of the Association’s newest members, could possibly have expected leniency from the disciplinary body.
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