Ireland’s lack of sparkle makes for a Swiss gem

Switzerland 2 Ireland 0

The sight of the delighted Swiss celebrating their victory with their exultant fans only served to heighten frustration at an Irish performance that was so lacking in imagination and a communal sense of determination that it was dis-spiriting to watch.

This was so out of character for Ireland and for this group of players that one wondered whether the virus that had struck Brian Kerr and Matt Holland early in the week had infected all with a timidity that jarred the senses.