Ireland’s hope is on the PlayOffs

BY Kathrin Kobus

A win yesterday would have guaranteed direct qualification but it wasn’t to be. Nevertheless the performance of McCarthy’s team showed actually attacking football. What was lacking the ability to convert the chances into goals

cheering fans before the game

But the “We must win this game” sting was out after Switzerland had beaten Georgia and that meant Ireland had already the third spot secure.

marching towards the Aviva

The fans streaming towards the stadium from Grand Canal Dock joyfully showed their colours, green or red.   Our photographer Gary Burke didn’t have to do much convincing to capture Ireland and Denmark fans hoping to get into the stadium for KO on time.

Danish Vikings

Because the closure of Lansdowne Road Dart station meant fans sharing the dart with regular commuters had to get off at Sydney parade or Grand Canal Dock and make their way on foot.

two young fans outside Slatterys

As for Ireland’s chances to progress via the playoffs the focus is on tonight’s game of Wales v Hungary and Slovakia v Azerbaijan.

One thing is sure: Ireland will have to play away from home on March the 26th next year and will need a performance like last night or better to get the Euro 2020.

(all images by Gary Burke)