The match was played at the height of The Troubles in Northern Ireland as a gesture of friendship and solidarity.

[1][2] Kilcoyne's brother-in-law and captain of the Republic team, Johnny Giles,[1] and Derek Dougan of Northern Ireland were friendly with each other.

Derek Dougan alleged that IFA President Harry Cavan instructed Northern Ireland manager Terry Neill not to pick him in future because of his involvement in organising this match, thereby ending his international career.

None of the five other Northern Ireland players who played in this match suffered any adverse consequences for their international career.

Despite the lack of support from the island's two FAs, following the match the FAI contacted the IFA regarding the possibility of re-unifying the two associations.