Sammy McIlroy recalls watching George Best for the first time in 1967, describing it as 'absolutely mesmerising' and highlighting the electric atmosphere at Windsor Park.
By the 1970s, Northern Ireland was unable to host international matches due to safety concerns arising from the Troubles, forcing the team to play 18 games away from home.
McIlroy spoke about his devastation as a player when he had to play an international match against Spain outside of Belfast, emphasizing the emotional impact of the situation.
During the Troubles, Northern Ireland experienced a ban on hosting international football, illustrating the broader cultural and social challenges posed by the sectarian conflict.
Collection
[
|
...
]