After 120 minutes and a penalty shootout, the Republic of Eire’s World Cup dream got here to a crushing finish in Prague with “ache” the overriding emotion for supervisor Heimir Hallgrimsson.
From the excessive of their beautiful last-gasp victory over Hungary in November that despatched them into the play-offs, the temper was in stark distinction for the Irish as hosts Czech Republic fought back on this occasion to force extra time after which prevail on spot-kicks.
It was an evening that promised a lot because the Republic of Eire discovered themselves two targets to the nice after 23 minutes because of a Troy Parrott penalty and personal purpose from Czech goalkeeper Matej Kovar.
However the hosts grabbed a lifeline from a Patrik Schick penalty quickly after earlier than captain Ladislav Krejci nodded dwelling 4 minutes from time to power additional time.
Hallgrimsson’s aspect may have been out of sight however for the publish which denied Jason Molumby within the second interval and Czech goalkeeper Matej Kovar who clawed away a Parrott header.
The Irish held the benefit within the penalties when Caoimhin Kelleher saved from Mojmir Chytil, just for Kovar to avoid wasting from Finn Azaz and Alan Browne earlier than Jan Kliment gained it for the hosts who now face Denmark for a spot within the World Cup on Tuesday.
“I really feel delight within the efficiency as they gave it their all,” a crestfallen Hallgrimsson instructed reporters.
“I really feel gratitude to the supporters who confirmed up and supported the group all through and even after the loss, however I and I do know the gamers really feel solely ache.”
