Irish fans start collection for two mugged Austrian supporters

Ireland fans have demonstrated their charitable side by starting a collection for two Austrian supporters who were robbed in Dublin.

By Declan Whooley

Unfortunately for two visiting fans, the trip to Ireland for the World Cup qualifier turned sour when they were robbed in the capital, with thieves making off with their wallets and also their match tickets.

When this incident was highlighted, the FAI kindly offered the Austrians tickets for tonight’s game at the Aviva, but Irish supporters also got wind of the mugging and wanted to help the lads as best they could.

The ybig forum has started a thread called ‘Donations For Austrian Fans’ and is looking to raise a small fund for the two supporters to get food and have a drink after the match.

Not only that, but the couple in question were contacted and agreed that any extra money will be donated to charity. A group of Irish supporters will meet the two in a hotel before the match to give whatever funds they have raised, with well over 50 people contributing by last night.

A really good gesture all round, and hopefully the Austrians visit to Ireland will be remembered more for what happened after the robbery than before it. And also as the scene of a victory for the home team!