Best fans in the world strike again as Irish replace tickets for mugged Austrian tourists

Irish fans at the Ireland v Poland game in February. Image: Dave Molloy

Ireland's proud of the label 'the best fans in the world,' and hell if we don't deserve it.

Balls.ie spotted this wonderful story, where a bad experience was turned around by some fantastic Irish football fans. Two Austrians, touring Dublin ahead of the Ireland v Austria World Cup Qualifier tonight at the Aviva Stadium, were (sadly) mugged and had their wallets stolen - including their match tickets.

The YBIG – or 'You Boys in Green' – fan group began a collection online on their fan forum as a 'great gesture' even if was only 'the price of a pint.'

Word quickly spread on to the social networks about their plight and what started with one kind of well known Irish hospitality ended with the exact opposite as it’s claimed the two lads are sitting enjoying a rake of free pints in Temple Bar.

– 'Austrian Fans Mugged Before Irish Compatriots Come To The Rescue', Balls.ie

According to the latest update on YBIG, the Football Association of Ireland has found a pair of tickets for the Austrian pair, and the donations – coming from over 50 kind fans – will go to nominated charities.

The Austrians also had their tickets robbed and we have managed to source two for them thanks to the @faireland #ireaus

— YBIG (@YouBoysInGreen) March 25, 2013

'But it's great to know even in these recessionary times, the Irish spirit of generosity is alive and well,' YBIG posted on their Facebook page, 'there is plenty there already to cover the Austrians fans + some for charity.'

YBIG is a die-hard group of fans, and you'll often see them fly the acronym at international games. It turns out they've got hearts of gold, too.

You can find out more about the YBIG on Twitter or Facebook, as well as on their website.

And if you've only remembered about the match now, kick-off is at 7.45pm and it will be broadcast live on RTÉ Two.

Categories: Ireland, FAI, Football, Soccer, YBIG