WORLD CUP USA '94 / QUARTERFINALS : Spotlight : WELCOME BACK, LADS

By WILLIAM TUOHY

July 8, 1994 12 AM PT

<i> Times London Bureau</i>

The big story Thursday in Ireland was the return of the Irish team, led by Coach Jack Charlton.

Prime Minister Albert Reynolds greeted players at Dublin airport and held a private champagne reception.

“The best ambassadors we have are Jack, the squad and the supporters,” Reynolds said.

The team was then flown by helicopter to Phoenix Park, where an estimated 100,000 fans, Irish pop groups and other singers were on hand.

There, Republic of Ireland President Mary Robinson welcomed the team, declaring, “It is very important you have come back for this welcome and celebration by the Irish people. The team played with wonderful Irish supporters and won all our hearts.”

The crowd went wild when Charlton walked on the stage.

Said Charlton: “I am sorry we didn’t win the World Cup for you. Every player here did his utmost and I can ask no more from them. It’s nice to be here.”

Such was the overwhelming welcome that observers wondered what it would have been like if Ireland had made it beyond the final 16.