Smith hands reins to Givens

“IT was like getting out of jail after a ten year stretch only to get a smack of a bus.”

Thus Ireland U20 manager Gerry Smith's summed up his side's exit to Colombia in the last 16 of the World Youth Championship in Al Ain on Tuesday night.

Colombia appeared home and hosed as they led 2-0 with six minutes to play, but goals from Kevin Doyle and then Paddy McCarthy two minutes into stoppage time forced extra-time before Erwin Carrillo's golden goal put Ireland out "After getting the two goals back you felt we could have won it in extra-time," added Smith "It's a huge disappointment to be out. We certainly would have fancied our chances against the UAE in Dubai on Friday. It just wasn't to be.

"Not to be beaten over 90 minutes in four games at a World Cup is a fair old achievement. "I spoke with the Colombians afterwards and they were very surprised at how we handled them, especially considering we were missing three key players through suspension.

"They said it was the most difficult match they've ever had and they are delighted to be through."

This World Cup exit also brings an end to the involvement of Smith and his assistant, John McDonnell. "This group of players now go to Don Givens. Myself and John would like to be involved again at some stage but it's out of our hands," said Smith.

"It was a great adventure and a great time. The players seemed to enjoy the whole time with us. We left no stone unturned and are delighted that Brian Kerr gave us this opportunity." Smith might have applied for the recent job of youths boss confirmed permanently for Sean McCaffrey three weeks ago but felt it wasn't the right time for him.

"The job was available at probably the wrong time for me," said Smith. "But who knows down the road what may happen. I'm still involved with the international Junior side and I'm back with them after Christmas. I would love to be involved in something like this again." As for the players, with application and some luck, careers in the game are there for them. "They have to map out where they want to be this time next year and be selfish about it," said McDonnell.

"They are going from boys to men and must ask themselves will I get a good living out of this.