So far it has been an interesting tournament. Some expected results, some unexpected. Poland in particular have been exciting to watch. For me the most monumental part of this tournament has been the Irish. Of course I know you are saying to yourself Ireland? They were hammered in both games. This is true and Ireland will not advance to the quarter finals. However, I just watched their loss to Spain and was totally astounded by their attitude, effort as well as the quality of their supporters. They lost 4-0 but were there to play until the whistle blew.
Spain had dismantled their defense from the very beginning with their Barca style passing. However Ireland did very well to keep it 1-0 until after the first half. They also had a chance or two themselves. But, as I said the most amazing thing about this game was not how impressive Spain were or how bad Ireland were, It was the way Ireland kept coming back. After every goal, after ever pass beating an Irish player, the Irish still came back to defend or to try and counter after a Spanish attack. They tirelessly chased Xavi and Iniesta around the midfield. They tried to get in front of every shot. Even though there was no way they could win they made the Spanish play their best. It was pretty exciting to see.
What was most amazing was the Irish supporters reaction in the last five minutes of the match. Booming song filled the PGE Arena in Gdansk. Most people watching on their televisions at home probably thought it was the Spanish It wasn't. The Dazzling green section of the stadium had erupted into song. If it's possible the Irish players seemed to fight even harder. Unfortunately this was to no avail. But the song continued, even after the official blew his whistle. The players began to shake hands, swap jerseys and make their way to their dressing rooms. But, the Irish players stayed and applauded their fans who were still united in deafening song. It was pretty moving to see. Maybe its just because I am a good part Irish on my mother's side. I'll tell you what. I am headed out tomorrow to buy my Ireland shirt because win or lose, with fans like that, you can't go wrong!
