IRELAND’S EURO 2012 hopefuls face into the daunting task of taking on world and European champions Spain, old foes Italy and Croatia this summer in Poland.
And manager Giovanni Trapattoni reckons the extra luck required to get through the group stages might be found at the top of Croagh Patrick.
The Italian will climb the famous reek later this month with Taoiseach, Enda Kenny, they announced earlier. The plan is part of a charity fund-raising initiative entitled ‘Enda’s trek with Trap’s Green army’.
“I am really looking forward to returning to Croagh Patrick,” said the 73-year-old coach in Dublin today. “It is a very special place, and hopefully this visit will bring us some luck before we set off to EURO 2012 this summer.”
An Taoiseach, Enda Kenny added: “I’d like to thank Giovanni Trapattoni for joining us on this walk. I wish him, and the whole team the very best of luck as they embark upon their journey to Poland this summer. They have the opportunity to lift the nation.”
The climb, on April 28, will benefit charities like Mayo Mountain Rescue, the John Giles Foundation, Mayo and Roscommon Hospice, the Western Alzheimer’s Association and the Western Care Association.
Ireland’s European Championships campaign begins against Croatia on 10 June.
We’re talkin’ softball..
@Darragh Farrelly: ……Ozzie and the Straw
Has anybody actually seen Bradys thumb? I’m not for a moment suggesting the Patriots would do anything underhand to get an edge on their opponents ;)
@Baz: They are the masters of gamesmanship!
Tom is going to use his left hand this time…just to make things fair..
Great article Steve, hope Brady’s thumb gets through game. People in Boston seem to think he will manage. back up QB not capable of winning this one!!!
@billy o connor: he was until he was traded to the 49ers for a 2nd round pick!