Too right ExperiencedPunter. The people calling for a replay are a bit naive and ignorant about football (and all sport), but when they feel deep down that there's something amiss, something a bit wrong about it all, they're right. FIFA is promoting Fair Play a lot, it should not do that. That's the job of the referees. The players can't be expected to be "ethical". And the only reason FIFA promote Fair Play so much isn't because they think players will actually listen, it's because IT'S VERY GOOD PR FOR THEM to be seen to be so upright and promoting morals etc.!!!!!!
I believe that the linesman should be dealt a career blow because of the decision, but come on, it was within the range of footballing error. (I saw that the referee did actually make enquiries to the linesman, he was totally blindsighted over it, his refereeing was perfect for that incident for all I know).
I believe that Ireland should be in the world cup. But it's not because of Thierry Henry's "ethics" or a severely negligent FIFA appointment at all that's the reason Ireland aren't going to the world cup.
It's because of the ridiculous seeding system of the playoffs (and Ireland were unbeaten in qualifiers, they should have had a top seed if anything)
AND because of all the non-european and non-South-American teams that NEVER make it through to the second round and SHOULDN'T BE THERE AT ALL!!!!
That's what the FAI should have been complaining about. It's too late now.
Of course the FAI and government wouldn't bother with that at all. It's too abstract. You can't see the cheating and corruption going on. There's Henry, he's the "villain", he "cheated", let's go after them all after the match and demand a replay. Fools.
And as most of us are aware, using the hand in a way not intended, cheating a little, isn't so bad sometimes.