James McClean was among those to give their opinions to the Ireland women's team celebrations as they chanted "ooh ah, up the RA".
After a historic 1-0 victory over Scotland that saw Ireland qualify for the Women’s World Cup for the first time in their history, celebrations were in full flow, with emotions running high on one of the greatest moments in Irish sport.
However, controversy emerged when an Instagram live from Ireland goalkeeper Grace Moloney of the squad celebrating with the Wolf Tones song Celtic Symphony playing, with the team heard singing “ooh ah up the RA”.
Instead of talking about the great performances of Katie McCabe, Amber Barrett and Courtney Brosnan, all the discussion was on the video.
The chants were quickly condemned by the FAI, while the Ireland’s women’s manager Vera Pauw issued an apology to those offended.
It didn’t stop there however, with Ireland defender Chloe Mustaki grilled on last night’s incident on Sky Sports News, with presenter Rob Wooten questioning if there is a need for more education on the history of the IRA.
READ HERE: Sky Sports Presenter Proposes Education For Irish Team After Up The Ra Chant
Reaction
Despite the immediate, professional response by the squad and the FAI, the incident was still discussed.
The reaction on twitter was split to say the least. While it’s clear the squad meant no harm or intent to offend anyone in the chant, it probably wasn’t the smartest thing to do.
As the issue dominated the day’s headlines, rather than their remarkable achievement of qualification, high-profile figures made their feelings known through the day.
Former Ireland international Kevin Kilbane took issue with the line of questioning by Rob Wooten towards Mustaki.
While James McClean, who has been a target for sectarian abuse in England through his career, made his feelings clear on the issue, posting a photo on his story with the Wolf Tones.
Very poor last question to ask re education. #knowyourhistory https://t.co/iVUNPYWCLL
— Kevin Kilbane (@kdkilbane77) October 12, 2022
Ahead of tonight's Champions League action on Virgin media, former Ireland manager Brian Kerr condemned the chants, but also added it doesn't take away from their achievements.
🗣 "I was disappointed when I heard, but can understand people can get lost in the emotion."
🗣 "It doesn't take away from the achievement."
🗣 "But there is no room for that in Irish society."
Brian Kerr on the controversy surrounding the Ireland team this morning.#COYGIG pic.twitter.com/yVPdYCwkiy— Virgin Media Sport (@VMSportIE) October 12, 2022
"I was very disappointed when I heard it, but I understand in the dressing room that some people got lost in the emotion, and may have gone along with it once it started.
It doesn't take away from the achievement, but I'm sure in the future they are going to be much more careful about the type of chanting that might go on in the dressing room or on the bus.
There is no room for that in Irish society for that anymore."
SEE ALSO: 'This Is For Creeslough, This Is For Donegal': Amber Barrett's Amazing Tribute To Her Grieving County
