As usual, there is bitter wrangling over the World Cup organisation. A last ditch plan is being hatched by the Irish FA to secure a place in the finals in South Africa. The Irish FA has challenged the ranking system, which also contributes to the seeding in the finals. In an interesting proposal, the Irish believe that countries with higher than average rainfall should be given extra points to compensate them for the heavy grounds they have to play on. The representation also suggests that countries beginning with ‘I’ should get extra points in their qualifying groups. Italy and Israel have seconded this proposal whilst the Cote d’Ivoire representative is assuring Sepp Blattter that the country is usually known as the Ivory Coast. The moves are rumoured to be receiving serious attention by FIFA and could mean a change in the final 32 finalists. France, however, may object to the plans unless they can be assured of a place in South Africa’s group. It is believed French objections may have been quelled. Sepp Blatter says that the Irish FA’s request to have ten extra officials behind the goal into which France are kicking has been rejected as ‘frivolous’.