THE NFL debuts in Croke Park next week, Steelers versus Vikings. Legendary American football broadcaster Dave Zirin, in Ireland to promote his documentary ‘Behind the Shield’ says that this is “no mere game of football”. When Kirk died, Donald Trump ordered the flag to be flown at half-mast on government buildings. Aontu leader Peadar Tóibín tweeted that Kirk “embodied liberal democracy” and it was “a heartbreaking day” for Ireland. Not American football, but America.