After the Georgia game that familiar feeling started to set in again. After 90 minutes of turgid football we searched the inner reaches of our soul for answers. Why do we do it? Why do we support a team that continually fails to play good football?
Then after they flirted their way back into our hearts last night, that feeling grew ever stronger. That feeling that they're exactly like a bad boyfriend. The reasons are eightfold.
1. You can change him.
If you were in charge, things would be different. Wessi off Long supported by an attack-minded midfield of Brady, McClean, Arter & McGeady. Fool proof.
2. Sure, he's not great to look at, but he has a heart of gold.
Fairly self explanatory this one.
3. Things have gotten stale. It's the same old story.
This one rings very true. Score early, retreat & concede. Repeat ad infinitum.
4. He's Boring
Workmanlike, industrious, tireless? Yes. Spontaneous, daring, thrilling? Rarely.
5. Sure we go through rough patches. But when it's good, it's great.
Euro 2016 was a high, no doubt about it. Why can't it always be like that Martin, why! For every Germany win there's a Georgia draw.
6. You Like The Drama
I need some drama in my life. Things would be boring without if we coasted through the group. Automatic qualification is for chumps.
7. He never listens to you.
What are you doing taking off Wes this early? He's the heartbeat of this team!
8. He continually drags you back in at the last minute
Long against Germany. McGeady against Georgia. Brady against Italy. They know how to push your buttons.
Of course Ireland rallied last night against Serbia and were unfortunate not to get a result but the overall trend of this Irish team is there for all to see. Still, like a partner that doesn't know any better, we live in hope that the boys in green will wallop Moldova and beat Wales to that coveted second spot. We never learn do we?
