Irish footballers end on a high

Ireland's Cerebral Palsy seven-a-side footballers showed some of the form which saw them to fifth in the World last year as they blitzed the United States 4-0 in this morning's 7th-8th place play-off in Athens.

There was a double celebration for Monaghan teenager Joseph Markey, back after a red card suspension from the Pool stages, as he netted twice in a much-improved Irish display.

The Americans, who could only manage a tame three shots to Ireland's 17, were 1-0 down after nine minutes when 17-year-old defender Markey burst through to score.

Eight minutes into the second half, Bray midfielder Gary Messett made it two with a well-taken goal. Dublin striker Alan O'Hara made certain of the win with a 43rd minute strike - his fourth of the tournament - and Markey completed the rout eleven minutes from time.

25-year-old O'Hara received a straight red card from Greek referee Christos Apostolidis on 50 minutes, but even that failed to dampen the final whistle celebrations of Paul Cassin's side.

Afterwards, second level student Markey said: It was a very competitive match. The Americans were tough, but we broke them down.

"We played great all-round and are very satisfied with what we did on the pitch. Seventh is still something to be very proud of."