11/08/2009
MLA Hopes For 'Friendly' Israeli Match
There are fears of disruption at this week's international soccer match at Windsor Park.
While the Northern Ireland soccer team boss Nigel Worthington believes Wednesday's friendly against Israel is "perfect preparation for upcoming World Cup qualifiers", a local MLA is worried about the sporting challenge becoming a political rally point.
Robin Newton, the East Belfast DUP MLA (pictured) has said the international football match between Northern Ireland and Israel at Windsor Park should be exactly as it is described - a 'friendly' football match.
Fearing anti-Israeli protests he said: "Those who would want to use the fixture for political protest reasons should catch themselves on and stay away from the ground.
"This is a sporting challenge between two small footballing nations with the opportunity for both teams and all supporters to enjoy the event.
"It will be competitive on the pitch but I have no doubts played in a sportsman like spirit," he said.
"This is another opportunity for 'our wee country' to show the footballing world a good image and the type of positive support for which we are gaining an international reputation," said the Stormont Junior Minister.
However, there was considerable trouble at a previous match - against Poland - when away fans rioted with police trying to keep the peace between rival fans.
On the pitch, Northern Ireland will go into the fixture second in their qualifying group, two points behind pacesetters Slovakia and three clear of third-placed Poland.
"We've got a good, hard match against Israel, which we wanted ahead of the Poland and Slovakia games," said Nigel Worthington.
"It's a chance to get the spirit going again and get the work ethic we are looking for.
"After a three-month break, to come together three weeks ahead of two crucial games is very important - it's about getting refocused on international football," said the NI Manager.
Poland are first up in a crucial double-header with the clash in Chorzow on 5 September followed by a Belfast battle with Slovakia four days later.
The campaign ends with a trip to face the Czech Republic on 14 October.
See: Policing Soccer Violence Cost Over £100K
(BMcC/KMcA)
While the Northern Ireland soccer team boss Nigel Worthington believes Wednesday's friendly against Israel is "perfect preparation for upcoming World Cup qualifiers", a local MLA is worried about the sporting challenge becoming a political rally point.
Robin Newton, the East Belfast DUP MLA (pictured) has said the international football match between Northern Ireland and Israel at Windsor Park should be exactly as it is described - a 'friendly' football match.
Fearing anti-Israeli protests he said: "Those who would want to use the fixture for political protest reasons should catch themselves on and stay away from the ground.
"This is a sporting challenge between two small footballing nations with the opportunity for both teams and all supporters to enjoy the event.
"It will be competitive on the pitch but I have no doubts played in a sportsman like spirit," he said.
"This is another opportunity for 'our wee country' to show the footballing world a good image and the type of positive support for which we are gaining an international reputation," said the Stormont Junior Minister.
However, there was considerable trouble at a previous match - against Poland - when away fans rioted with police trying to keep the peace between rival fans.
On the pitch, Northern Ireland will go into the fixture second in their qualifying group, two points behind pacesetters Slovakia and three clear of third-placed Poland.
"We've got a good, hard match against Israel, which we wanted ahead of the Poland and Slovakia games," said Nigel Worthington.
"It's a chance to get the spirit going again and get the work ethic we are looking for.
"After a three-month break, to come together three weeks ahead of two crucial games is very important - it's about getting refocused on international football," said the NI Manager.
Poland are first up in a crucial double-header with the clash in Chorzow on 5 September followed by a Belfast battle with Slovakia four days later.
The campaign ends with a trip to face the Czech Republic on 14 October.
See: Policing Soccer Violence Cost Over £100K
(BMcC/KMcA)
Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
08 February 2024
Online Business Ideas Gaining Traction In Northern Ireland
Are you looking for a new business venture that can be operated from the comfort of your own home? The rise of the internet has provided countless opportunities to start an online business and reach customers from all over the world.
Online Business Ideas Gaining Traction In Northern Ireland
Are you looking for a new business venture that can be operated from the comfort of your own home? The rise of the internet has provided countless opportunities to start an online business and reach customers from all over the world.
21 February 2024
Irish Govt Commits To Invest €800m In Northern Ireland
The announcement of an €800 million (£685m) investment in Northern Ireland by the Irish Government has been welcomed as a "significant contribution" by Finance Minister, Dr Caoimhe Archibald MLA.
Irish Govt Commits To Invest €800m In Northern Ireland
The announcement of an €800 million (£685m) investment in Northern Ireland by the Irish Government has been welcomed as a "significant contribution" by Finance Minister, Dr Caoimhe Archibald MLA.
29 January 2024
The Ultimate Guide To Bingo Halls In Northern Ireland
Bingo, a game that has been a staple in Northern Ireland's entertainment scene for decades, continues to capture the hearts of enthusiasts across the region. In recent years, there has been a notable rise in bingo hall attendances, and some attribute this surge to the growing popularity and accessibility of bingo sites.
The Ultimate Guide To Bingo Halls In Northern Ireland
Bingo, a game that has been a staple in Northern Ireland's entertainment scene for decades, continues to capture the hearts of enthusiasts across the region. In recent years, there has been a notable rise in bingo hall attendances, and some attribute this surge to the growing popularity and accessibility of bingo sites.
15 March 2024
NI's 'Unique' Dual Market Access Highlighted To US Business Leaders
Economy Minister, Conor Murphy, has highlighted the "unique trading position" offered by Northern Ireland's dual market access, in his address to a reception of business leaders in Washington, DC.
NI's 'Unique' Dual Market Access Highlighted To US Business Leaders
Economy Minister, Conor Murphy, has highlighted the "unique trading position" offered by Northern Ireland's dual market access, in his address to a reception of business leaders in Washington, DC.
26 March 2024
Hotel Shampoo Ban Claim 'Inaccurate And Incomplete' – DUP
The DUP has claimed news that hotel shampoo bottles are to be banned in Northern Ireland is "inaccurate and misrepresents the situation".
Hotel Shampoo Ban Claim 'Inaccurate And Incomplete' – DUP
The DUP has claimed news that hotel shampoo bottles are to be banned in Northern Ireland is "inaccurate and misrepresents the situation".
-
Northern Ireland WeatherToday:Mainly dry this morning with sunny spells then scattered showers breaking out this afternoon. A chilly start then feeling warmer in afternoon sunshine. Light southerly winds. Maximum temperature 11 °C.Tonight:Any showers at first soon dying out. Then dry overnight with clear periods and turning chilly with a touch of frost later tonight. Minimum temperature 1 °C.