FAI Express Disappointment Over France Replay Rejection

FAI's replay request has 'fallen on deaf ears'

Nov 21, 2009 8:43:47 AM

WCQ 2010 : Thierry Henry & Raymond Domenech (France)

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WCQ 2010 : Thierry Henry & Raymond Domenech (France)

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The FAI (Football Association of Ireland) has expressed bitter disappointment after learning that the controversial France v Ireland World Cup qualifier will not be replayed.

Ireland captain Robbie Keane, Arsenal’s French manager Arsene Wenger and even Thierry Henry, whose handball led to France’s winning goal, were among those who called for a replay along with the FAI, but their request was turned down by the FFF (French Football Federation) and FIFA.

"We regret that despite our best efforts for a replay, which would have restored the integrity of the game in front of a world-wide audience, our calls appear to have fallen on deaf ears at the French Football Federation," FAI chief executive John Delaney said in a statement.

"Without doubt, the credibility of fair-play has been damaged by this incident in front of a world-wide audience.

"Despite our deep disappointment, we thank our players, the wonderful Irish fans and the Irish public at large for their support as well as the solidarity of the French people.

In a concluding statement, Delaney is quoted by Sky as saying:

"We will continue to call on FIFA to take action to ensure that such damaging examples of cheating are not allowed to recur."

Tony Corbin, Goal.com UK

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