By Paul Doyle
FIFA this afternoon announced it has no plans to postpone World Cup matches in the light of yesterday's terrorist attacks on America.
In a statement released this afternoon, football's world governing body said it "is of the opinion that despite the horrific events in New York and Washington, all upcoming FIFA World Cup matches should be played, provided that the safety of everyone can be guaranteed".
Commentators had voiced particular concern over this weekend's four World Cup qualifiers in Asia - the eventual winners of which will likely meet Ireland in a two-leg play-off in November - but FIFA President Sepp Blatter explained: "This stance represents our determination to ensure that football does not capitulate in the face of violence. In tragic circumstances such as these, football must symbolise the ideals of Fair Play and non-violence, and encourage people to respect the dignity of each and every human being. The world today is no longer the one we knew. But football must remain a beacon of hope."
Meanwhile, eircom league Commissioner Roy Dooney today said the National League will observe this Friday's national day of mounring, and have postponed the four matches which were scheduled for that day. Furthermore, at all matches taking place on Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday, two minute's of silence will be observed before kick-off as a mark of repsect for the victims of yesterday's tragedy.