Podium: Have the FAI made the right decision

Yes, says Darren Norris

September 1, 2001, is a day etched into every Irish soccer fan’s mind. A combination of Roy Keane’s iron will and Jason McAteer’s match-winning goal saw off a star-studded Netherlands team and secured a play-off spot for the 2002 World Cup.

Significantly, it was also the last time Ireland defeated a top-ranked international team in competitive fare. It’s a sobering stat and perhaps one the FAI gave consideration to when they met to discuss Giovanni Trapattoni’s fate this week.