Valiant Northern Ireland’s World dream crushed
Tears and applause on the night they missed out on finals by the slimmest of margins Pain of controversial penalty decision set to haunt players and fans
MORE than a thousand dedicated Northern Ireland fans braved near-freezing weather to cheer on their footballing heroes last night in the S13 fanzone in south Belfast.
They didn’t care about the icy temperatures in the cavernous former DIY store as they ‘oohed’ and ‘aahed’ every touch of the ball by Michael O’Neill’s men as they fought in vain for World Cup glory in Basel.
There were none of Thursday night’s smoke bombs, broken glass and coarse chants as hundreds of mums and dads brought their children to the family-friendly venue.
The fans were in an upbeat mood as the teams lined out in Basel, singing at the top of their lungs as the anthems played in the Swiss stadium, preparing to do battle for a place in the finals.
“I fancy us to win 2-1 — I’m very hopeful,” said Darren Purdy from New Mossley. “I’m sure Lafferty will get one for us.”
Superfan Nikita Bailey from Millisle was hoping a victory for Northern Ireland would see her heading for Russia.
She’d already followed the team to France, and was eager to get another stamp in her passport.
“I hope we’re going to get a 2-0 win — it’s my ticket to Russia. I’ve got to go there!”
Belfast supporter Laura Black reckoned 2-1 was a dead cert.
“Definitely, Michael O’Neill’s changed the team around a bit after Thursday.
“I reckon they’re gonna make it!”
Her pal Myrtle Godfrey was a little more cautious.
“1-0. I don’t care who scores — just as long as they get a goal!”
As the match began, little girls in the audience covered their eyes, afraid to look every time the Swiss forwards threatened to score, then cheered excitedly when Northern Ireland players gained possession.
Their enthusiasm and commitment did them proud.
But the World Cup dream vanished in the chill Swiss air. Nikita’s trip to Russia will have to wait.