Irish Out For Four-In-A-Row

The Kimberley’s only international sporting event will come back to Broome again on the 13^th March as the Broome Soccer Association hosts its annual Delgado St. Patrick’s Day Challenge Shield match between Ireland and Australia.

The Delgado Shield, which sees the cream of Broome’s Irish stock compete against their Australian and international counterparts, has been won by Ireland three years in a row with the Irish looking to make it a history-making fourth this year.

The wins though, have not been without controversy – Team Ireland have been accused of granting honorary Irish status to anyone who has drank a pint of Guinness, as well as getting in the referee’s ear during the match with some very dodgy calls.

Despite the ongoing debate, history has recorded the Irish team as legitimately dubious winners for the last three years, and this looks set to continue in 2010.

“Spectators are most welcome,” BSA Treasurer Tim Gray said. “I think this will be a sporting contest that you won’t forget in a hurry.”

The action will begin at 10am, with the customary singing of the national anthems by Broome celebrity Sarah Goyder and the traditional pre-match potato eating by the Irish.

If there is one sure bet to make on the day, it will be that the Irish will claim a win – even if the scoreline doesn’t reflect it.

“It all comes down to the luck of the Irish,” Gray said.