There is a massive Garda presence in and around the Aviva Stadium in Dublin this evening as the Republic Of Ireland hosts Northern Ireland in an international friendly.
While the threat level for the match is generally regarded as low, authorities aren’t taking any chances with one RTÉ reporter describing the Garda presence as ‘ferocious’.
There is a ferocious Garda presence around @AVIVAStadium. Unlike one I’ve seen at a match in a long long time.
— Damien O’Meara (@damien_omeara) November 15, 2018
While major incidents not expected to take place, the night hasn’t gotten off to the best of starts for those who are looking for a peaceful evening. According to numerous sources, loud boos and jeers rang around the stadium when the away anthem of God Save The Queen began playing.
Off The Ball’s Shane Hannon managed the capture the moment on video while others shared their thoughts…
Tasty reception to ‘God Save the Queen’ in the Aviva. #ROIvNI pic.twitter.com/H7zLdv4vtU
— Shane Hannon (@ShaneHannon01) November 15, 2018
Massive boos around the stadium here at Aviva Stadium for God Save The Queen. Worst reaction I’ve heard for an away anthem here.
— Jonathan Higgins (@Jhiggins3) November 15, 2018
The people that bothered to turn up loudly boo ‘God save the Queen’ at the Aviva Stadium.
— Darren Cleary (@RadioCleary) November 15, 2018
God Save The Queen roundly booed at the Aviva. Pleasant start to the evening.
— Daniel McDonnell (@McDonnellDan) November 15, 2018
massive boos for god save the queen at the aviva. haven’t been to every match v NI in the past but that’s worst reception i’ve ever heard for the away team anthem.
— Ken Early (@kenearlys) November 15, 2018
Let’s hope that that’s the extent of the tensions and the night is remembered for a good game of football. Although given the recent form of both sides, we won’t hold our breath.
READ NEXT: WATCH: The New Dumbo Trailer Starring Colin Farrell Is Adorable