1973 'All-Ireland' Soccer Team Honoured in Dublin

Although billed officially as the "Shamrock Rovers All-Ireland XI", it was the first occasion that a soccer team representing the entire island of Ireland had played together in 60 years.

Northern Ireland International Derek Dougan, who sadly passed away last year, was the brainchild behind the game and along with his southern counterpart Johnny Giles, they formed an All-Ireland starting XI comprising of six Republic of Ireland and five from Northern Ireland Internationals.

Reigning World Champions, Brazil, had won the World Cup only three years before this fixture, and they were a side generally regarded as one of the best teams of all time.

Pele had retired by 1973, but Brazil still brought stars like Jairzinho, Rivelino and Clodoaldo to Dublin for a game that captured the publics' imagination.

Over 35,000 supporters filled Lansdowne Road to witness a thrilling game that Brazil eventually won 4-3.

Speaking on behalf of Lucozade Sport, Elizabeth Reynolds commented on the significance of this historic occasion.

She said: "Lucozade Sport is delighted to honour and commemorate their achievements thirty-five years on. To this day, the game is still acknowledged as a legendary event and we are very pleased to be associated with it", concluded Reynolds.

With the exception of the late Derek Dougan, all of the team that lost a thrilling game on a 4-3 score-line are still involved with football and were present at the function to mark this truly great occasion.

Pat Jennings, John Giles, Don Givens, Martin O'Neill, Allan Hunter, Paddy Mulligan, Bryan Hamilton all attended the function along with former Republic of Ireland manager Liam Tuohy.