The Columbians got off to a great start with a goal in the first 15 minutes. Ireland didn't really settle and were caught out on a number of occasions. Some of the Columbians were very skillful on the ball and were able to outfox the Irish lads. However, they kept plodding away. Heads did seem to drop a bit after the second Columbian goal in the second half. The cautious Irish wasn't getting them very far. After that the result seemed inevitable. However, in the last 15 minutes with the Columbians at times showing off their fancy footwork, Ireland pounced. Life returned to tired and lethargic limbs. With great support they came in waves at the Samba boys and got the equaliser in injury time. Amazing stuff. Robbie Keane in the match against Germany in the World Cup! The "You'll never beat the Irish" chant rose to the heavens. Now the QF was in sight. Alas, after a bad collision between Capper and an opponent the Columbian got a corner and the ball shook the net for the golden goal. The Irish terraces fell silent. The Irish treat had come to an end.
It has been fabuluous to have these players and officials here in Al Ain. They have won many friends for Ireland both on and off the pitch. Wonderful Irish ambassadors.
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| A disappointed Irish supporter |
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| Section of the great Irish support |
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| An Irish attack |
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| Goalmouth action |
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| The grandstand |
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| Under pressure |
