Rematch Call As French 'Handed Victory'

Irish Justice Minister Dermot Ahern has today demanded a rematch after Ireland were put out of the World Cup by a blatant handball.

Mr Ahern slammed governing body Fifa in response to Ireland's defeat at the hands of Thierry Henry in the crucial World Cup playoff last night in Paris.

The Republic team are crestfallen after being beaten by the controversial extra-time goal, which was created illegally by French captain Thierry Henry before being headed home by William Gallas.

Mr Ahern, a passionate soccer fan, called on Fifa to consider a rematch in the interests of fair play.

"They probably won't grant it as we are minnows in world football but let's put them on the spot," the minister said. "It's the least we owe the thousands of devastated young fans around the country. Otherwise, if that result remains, it reinforces the view that if you cheat, you will win."

The Republic's assistant manager Liam Brady backed the minister's calls for a replay. "For the dignity and integrity of football, we will go to France and play again," the coach said.

The highly controversial defeat compounds the struggles faced by Ireland as they strove to qualify for the World Cup in South Africa next year.

Giovanni Trapattoni's team, who were one of the only teams to finish the group stages undefeated, were gutted last month when it emerged Fifa had made the last minute decision to seed the playoff matches, putting Ireland against previous finalists France instead of more average talent.

Following the match, Thierry Henry fully admitted he had handled the ball in the build up to the goal but added that he was not the referee.

Taoiseach Brian Cowen congratulated the Irish team on "a most courageous performance".

(DW/KMcA)