Robin Newton MBE MLA

ROBIN Newton East Belfast DUP MLA has said the international football match between Northern Ireland and Israel at Windsor Park August 12th should be exactly as it is described a friendly football match; a sporting event.

Robin Newton said,

“Those with pro-Palestinian views who would want to use the fixture for political protest reasons should catch themselves on and stay away from the ground. Those who, true to form call for a boycott of the game, who are hostile to Israel, are fixated on one point of view and need to realise Israel is the only democratic nation in the Middle East. 

This is a sporting challenge between two small footballing nations with the opportunity for both teams and all supporters to enjoy the event. It will be competitive on the pitch but I have no doubts played in a sportsman like spirit.

A recent competitive fixture between Glentoran and the Israeli team Maccabi Haifa was played with competitive courage from both teams, although the result wasn’t what the Glens wanted, but never the less friendships were forged that will lead to longer term benefits for both football clubs.  

This is another opportunity for “our wee country” to show the footballing world a good image and the type of positive support for which we are gaining an international reputation.”