It’s a mixture of disappointment and elation across the land today as UEFA have finished allocating tickets for the Republic of Ireland’s group matches at Euro 2016.

Some loyal fans have been disappointed while tensions are high between the ‘regular match-goers’ and the ‘bandwagoners’.

https://twitter.com/wheresclair/status/699165760489463808

Where were all these 'supporters' when the Aviva was half empty when qualifying looked highly unlikely? #COYBIG — KJ Bohan (@kjbohan) February 15, 2016

At least I have my memories of Germany and Scotland away in the qualifiers cos I won't be getting any #EURO2016 tickets #coybig #bollox — Neil Cotter (@NewsNeil13) February 15, 2016

As is the case with any major tournament, the demand for tickets for Euro 2016 was always going to be significantly higher than the qualifying games but it is sad to see loyal match-goers being left disappointed. On the bright side, there will be another opportunity to get tickets through the UEFA portal in March. But for those who missed out and don’t regularly attend football matches in this country, why not get your fix on your doorstep this spring?

The League of Ireland kicks off on March 4th and there’s no time like the present to sample everything that goes with it. With football fever gripping the nation, there is no better time to get to know your local club and savour the electric atmosphere that the league provides and a level of football that is miles above the standard it is often portrayed as.

Back Page Football conducted a poll to gauge how many people would consider attending a League of Ireland game before EURO 2016 and the results were positive.

There are 15 rounds of #LOI scheduled to take place before #EURO2016 kicks off. Would you consider attending a game? — James Fenton (@fentonjames16) February 11, 2016

If the numbers sitting on the fence transfers to the numbers going through the turnstiles that could do wonders for the league.

With former League of Ireland players like James McClean, Séamus Coleman and Wes Houlahan now regulars in the international squad it’s clear that the talent is there. What the league needs is more players like this coming through and hopefully ignoring the bright lights of the UK to stay in the domestic game. It’s now over thirty years since Pat Byrne of Shamrock Rovers became the most recent player to play in a competitive fixture for Ireland while plying his trade on domestic soil. For this reason, increased attendances would only be beneficial to Irish football as a whole.

So whether you live in Dublin, Sligo, Cork or Bray, why not switch off the tv and get down to your local club for a springtime activity you won’t forget.

If you’re still not convinced, check out this excellent video by Copa90 on the Bohemian FC and Shamrock Rovers rivalry which also focuses on the league in general. Incredible matchday scenes can be witnessed towards the end. Enjoy.