Ireland warm up for World Cup with Zambia win

Ireland have defeated Zambia 3-2 at Tallaght Stadium

Ireland have beaten Zambia 3-2 at Tallaght Stadium ahead of the Women’s World Cup.

Vera Pauw’s side went 1-0 down in the first half but recovered strongly, with second half goals from Amber Barrett (2) and Claire O’Riordan securing the victory.

Barrett, who was the hero when Ireland beat Scotland to qualify for the tournament, was only introduced at half-time but made full use of her gametime to virtually secure her plane ticket to Australia.

Barrett-inspired Ireland enjoy Zambia win.

A 47th minute penalty was awarded to Ireland for handball and the Donegal woman converted it with conviction to set Ireland towards victory.

Their cause was helped in the 64th minute when a Claire O’Riordan header found the back of the net, and minutes later Barrett bagged her second and Ireland’s third.

A corner swung in from the right, the Zambian ‘keeper was unable to clear the ball successfully and the Turbine Potsdam forward doubled her tally by knocking it up and over the opposition defence.

A Zambian consolation goal signed off the contest but the Irish management team still came away with a win and plenty of food for thought.

Amber Barrett.

Speaking to RTE after the game, Barrett explained how she hopes her two goals will secure her place in the Ireland World Cup squad.

“To be honest with you, there’s a lot of pressure on everybody for the next few days, obviously until we get the squad named.

“But to be honest, there’s quite a bit of confidence around everybody and look, the most important thing was to get minutes into the legs for a lot of the girls.

“We’ve seen people cramping who would never normally cramp – I don’t think Megan Connolly has ever cramped in her life and she cramped today!

“Look it’s pre-season for us, a lot of girls had a good break so look, I think we’re all in a good place going into the campaign.”

As George Hamilton said: “Would you like a window or an aisle seat?”