The Union, of whom the international team are associate members, has expressed its outrage at the huge injustice meted out to the Irish players and fans.

PFAI General Secretary, Stephen McGuinness, speaking from the congress of the World Players' Union, FIFPro, in Budapest, Hungary said "What happened last night was massively unjust. I have spent the day discussing the incident with my fellow colleagues from the unions around the world and the overwhelming feeling is that we are entitled to a replay."

Chris Fortuin of the South Africa Football Players' Union (SAFPU) is particularly vocal on this issue, "The players sweated blood for Ireland and for it to end in this manner would be extremely disappointing." he said.

ENDS