Torres savours moment

Fernando Torres was in buoyant mood after his double strike helped Spain to a 4-0 win over a disappointing Ireland last night.

Torres started last night’s game after being a sub during Spain’s opening 1-1 draw with Italy, firing in to open the scoring after less than four minutes and sliding home the third goal with 20 minutes remaining.

“I am trying to enjoy every moment and every game,” the Chelsea striker told Spanish TV afterwards. “I had the fortune to start today’s game and to score. Spain has many players for many positions. Cesc (Fabregas) can also play as a forward and he came on and scored another goal.”

Manchester City playmaker David Silva scored Spain’s second four minutes after half-time, and he gave some credit to Ireland for making a game of it until that point.

“The match was difficult at the start, but after the second goal we could play with a bit more calmness,” said Silva.

“Things went our way. There was a lot of debate after the Italy game, but now everything is going very well.”

Barcelona midfielder Fábregas rounded off the scoring late on and the commentary team on Spain’s Telecinco channel, who included former Spain forward Fernando Morientes, were impressed with their side’s display. “Spain were very good right from the start,” said Morientes. “We were more focused than against Italy. The early goal took away any tension the players were feeling.”

The win put Spain level with Croatia atop Group C on four points apiece, and a draw when they meet on Monday could send both teams through to the knock-out stages. Spanish coach Vicente del Bosque said his team would look to beat the Croats and top the group.

“We played very well, against a team who were very committed on the field, as their fans were in the stands,” said Del Bosque. “We are all very happy. We have to play Croatia, who are a strong team playing very well. It will not be easy but we will prepare as usual to win.’’