Out, but with their heads held high.
Not many would’ve expected the Republic of Ireland to reach the knock out stages of Euro 2016 following their 3-0 humbling at the hands of Belgium last week. It was their second group match, and followed a 1-1 draw in their opener against Sweden.
The result meant that the Irish would need to beat Italy – the only side remaining in the competition with a 100% record – if they would make the last 16. As we all know, a late goal from Robbie Brady was enough to seal an historic win and set up a last 16 meeting with France.
Were they favourites? No, but for a long time in Lyon on Sunday, it seemed the Irish were on course to spring a surprise on the hosts. Leading through an early penalty, a second half double from Antoine Griezmann eventually put an end to their run.
The Belgium match aside, Ireland were energetic, imaginative and brave in possession throughout the campaign in France and as always, their fans did them proud.
We’ve all seen the various clips of Irish fans having fun and enjoying themselves during the last couple of weeks in France, but it’s nice to see that at the team’s lowest moment, the supporters – every single one of them – stayed behind in the Stade de Lyon to give the boys in green a deserved round of applause.
Beautiful moment as Irish players and staff observe the fans belting out Fields of Athenry to them.#COYBIG pic.twitter.com/LIm86noQJm
— Conán Doherty (@ConanDoherty) June 26, 2016
https://twitter.com/Sportdec/status/747084933923995648
At one with their people pic.twitter.com/ikAZ03KjN1
— Vincent Hogan (@Vincent_Hogan) June 26, 2016
Irish players just standing and looking at the fans serenading them. Quite a scene. They don't want to leave. pic.twitter.com/w2go6NAL0s
— Daniel McDonnell (@McDonnellDan) June 26, 2016
