Trap recalls famous night 36 years on

GIOVANNI TRAPATTONI took a trip down memory lane yesterday when he travelled to Athlone IT to open a new football pitch.

It’s 36 years since Ireland’s manager was a member of the AC Milan coaching staff which huddled together in a tiny dug-out at a packed St Mel’s Park to watch the Italian aristocrats held to a scoreless draw by Athlone Town in a celebrated UEFA Cup game.

And in case the veteran Italian needed any further reminder of that extraordinary occasion in 1975 when Milan barely escaped the midlands with their credibility intact, among those at the college to greet him was John Minnock, the revered Athlone Town playmaker who will never be allowed to forget he had a penalty kick saved on the night.

Sadly, that was as close as Athlone came to completing one of the greatest ever upsets in European football. In the second leg at the San Siro, the visitors, despite a spirited performance, lost 3-0.

“I want to give my regards to this city,” smiled Trapattoni yesterday.

“36 years ago, I played in this beautiful, little town. It’s a pleasure to be back.”

But Trapattoni was also looking to the future in Athlone, confirming that an Ireland friendly against his native Italy is still planned for June 7 with Brussels now looking the most likely venue.

However, with negotiations still ongoing, an FAI spokesperson added that the game could yet take place in a different city.

For the moment, all that can be confirmed is that it will definitely not be hosted in either Ireland or Italy.