SBC News Voice of the Sports Betting Industry
Paddy Power has rewarded the faith of one optimistic Irish fan, who despite seeing his nation’s hopes of qualifying next Summer’s World Cup dampened, backed Ireland to lift the Jules Rimet trophy in Russia.
A defeat at the hands of Serbia left Ireland’s qualification hopes hanging in the balance, however this didn’t stop one plucky Irishman taking a gamble on his country in the early hours of the following morning.
At the price of 150/1, the loyal punter put a €3 bet on Martin O’Neil’s side to win the tournament for the first time since its formation 96 years ago.
His unwavering faith struck a chord with Paddy Power, who decided to pay him out the full €450 just for taking the bet.
A spokesperson for Paddy Power said: “The mood in the country certainly wasn’t one of optimism after last night’s result so we can’t but admire the stones on this lad.
“Given the timing of the bet he may have been drowning his sorrows but feel as though his ridiculous optimism can’t go unrewarded and have decided to pay the man his money.”
It’s not the first time that Paddy Power have rewarded the sheer optimism of a punter, just two weeks ago, the bookmakers paid out two Rangers fans who backed Kazakh champions Astana to overcome a five goal deficit and defeat Rangers’ arch rivals Celtic.
Ireland are currently third in their qualification group and desperately need a win against Wales in Cardiff to keep their qualification hopes alive.
