Heartbreak as Ireland bow out of World Cup

The Republic of Ireland are out of the Women’s FIFA World Cup despite a brave performance against reigning Olympic champions Canada.

The game ended 2-1 on a rainy night in Perth’s Rectangular Stadium where Olé, Olé, Olé rang out from the Irish fans until the final whistle.

The Girls in Green started brightly and deservedly went ahead after 4 minutes thanks to an immaculate corner from captain Katie McCabe which flew straight into the net. McCabe’s strike was Ireland’s first ever Women's World Cup goal.

A tenacious Ireland were much the better team in the first half, although Canada did come back into the game with about 15 minutes to go in the half as Ireland sat deep and shifted to a more counter attacking style.

Then, 5 minutes into added time, Canada pulled level via an unfortunate deflection off Cork player Megan Connelly.

In the second half, Canada seemed a completely different team and dominated the game from kick-off, scoring a skilfully executed second goal in the 53rd minute with a well-worked effort from striker Adriana Leon.

Ireland threw everything forward but couldn't create clear cut chances to trouble the Canadian keeper or score an equaliser. Denise O'Sullivan was excellent again and Megan Connolly passed and defended with assurance.

Ireland face Nigeria next.