Hand of God... Oh no wait, not god!

Republic of Ireland missed out on getting to the World Cup last night. As an Englishmen it shouldn't really bother me, their not even British, but it has.

Going into the game many thought Ireland could win when in previous times against France it would of being an obvious result (France winning easily).

However after the first leg it actually seemed like Ireland could do it. This made me want to watch the game to measure up our (England's) chances against France. On paper it was a no contest but France seemed to turn up wanting a casual kick around, the Stade de France being their park. As for Ireland they were going into the game as if their lives were on the line and they would quite happily die for their country in battle.

On paper the comparisons were a no contest. France have Henry (who we will come to 'discuss,' later),Anelka,Gourcuff and wait for it... Gignac, who ? Oh of course, he's the guy who in the first game missed from eight yards... with an open goal gaping in front of him... and it went so far wide it went out for a throw in.

With Real Madrid's billions of pounds worth of Benzema on the bench. Who after both games didn't have a single kick of the ball. Lets hope this indifferent management style gives us a chance to really put them to bed.

Ireland's key player is Robbie Keane but apart from him there isn't much else. Although with England's current goal keeping situation I do wish we could borrow Shay Given for the finals. This shows that passion and work rate can get you places, maybe not South Africa in this case but it can. So England players, take a note out of the Irish book, the work rate, not the finishing.

Anyway back to the games. The first game was won by a major deflection that gave France not only a lead but an away goal. Both teams had a few chances and it would of been fair that it ended in a draw (if only football was like that ey!).

Going into the second game Ireland nearby dominated with a few close scares. The referee was on top of everything. Anyone blown over by the wind or believing they were on a diving board weren't going to get anything. So how ironic is it that this game of FOOTball was won by a hand, and that of someone you don't ever associate cheating with.

Up step Mr.Henry, we know you steal Tiger's and Federer's Gillette razor, we can accept that, but not football games. As he juggled the ball and proceeded to tee up William Gallas all the hard work had gone, and ended up counting for nothing.

I'm happy to admit I was absolutely gutted. But I have to say 'Wazza' (Wayne Rooney). If the chance comes I'm sure me and the nation will turn a blind eye.