In the winter of 1985, the FAI was on the brink of extinction. In the previous two seasons, the association had losses of IR£60,000 and IR£30,000 which were substantial at that time for the association, which was heavily dependent on matchday income.  Only 15,000 people had shown up for Ireland’s last game of 1985, when they lost 4-1 to Denmark who were heading to the next summer’s World Cup in Mexico. Ireland were not. They had never qualified for a tournament in their history. What happened next is part of the legend of Irish football. The next ten years would…

Special Six Nations offer

Become an annual member today for €200 and receive a free copy of ‘From Rags to Riches; The Irish Men’s Team in the Professional Era’ by Feargal O’Rourke

Subscribe

Cancel at any time.

Are you already a member? .