Coventry City striker Leon Best spent last nights Wold Cup play off game against France in Paris on the bench. He did not figure at all on the field of play and saw his gallant Irish team mates denied a place at the finals in South Africa though a contentious goal scored by William Gallas in extra time.
Thierry Henry passed the ball to Gallas from the left of the goal, but stopped the ball from going out of play with his hand before completing the cross to Gallas. The goal should not have been allowed, but the officials missed the handball. In a post match interview, Henry admitted the ball struck his hand.
In the first half, former Coventry City striker Robbie Keene scored the first goal of the game, bringing the aggregate score to 1-1 in Paris and put pressure on the French to respond.
The game went into extra time and Ireland were lucky not to concede a penalty when Shay Given reacted quickly to deny Anelka. Anelka went to ground looking for a penalty, but the Swedish referee awarded a goal kick. Minutes later Galas scored the controversial goal which put paid to Irish hopes of a summer trip to South Africa.
Sky Blue goalkeeper, Keiran Westwood missed both play off games with a back injury, but he hopes to be fit for the home game on Saturday, against Crystal Palace.