Time to ban the booze at Aviva

Sir, – I have read the various replies (Letters, March 30th) to Gerry Thornley's article on banning booze at the Aviva (Sport, March 29th).

I was in attendance at the Republic of Ireland v Lithuania soccer match on Tuesday of this week and the constant movement of people coming and going from seats to get the booze was very annoying and distracting.

If booze has to be sold at the Aviva, why not only allow the sale at half-time and at the end of the game? Surely in the best interests of everyone attending the game this should be accommodated, and let the genuine fans enjoy the game in its entirety without the distractions and interruptions. – Yours, etc,

COLMAN NOLAN,

READ SOME MORE

Ballinteer,

Dublin 16.

Sir, – I add my plaintive cry to Gerry Thornley’s timely advice to the IRFU. I and all my rugby friends have long despaired at the impact of constant interruptions, even at the most tense period of a game.

Drink at the bar if you will, but let those interested in the game watch in peace. – Yours, etc,

SEOIRSE O’TOOLE,

Donegal.

Sir, – If you were to replace the term “rugby” with “soccer” and reference last Tuesday night’s international friendly between the Republic of Ireland and Lithuania, then the call to ban alcohol sales at the Aviva is totally justified. Six “fans” sitting just below us got up together on the 32nd minute and went to the bar, disturbing everyone around them. They returned at half-time and left twice in the second half. The two guys seated next to me decided to leave 10 minutes early to get to the bar; they missed the only goal of the match.

If this continues, I will join the rugby fraternity and watch future games at home. – Yours, etc,

DONAL CARLIN,

Ballyconnell,

Co Cavan.