McCarthy and Frisk meet again

Mick McCarthy’s face must have dropped when he saw who was the referee for the Republic of Ireland’s last 16 clash with Spain.

It was Swede Anders Frisk - who controversially awarded Turkey a late penalty at Lansdowne Road during the Republic’s defeat in the play-offs for Euro 2000.

McCarthy was hoping for better luck this time as he attempted to lead Ireland into the World Cup quarter-finals for only the second time in their history.

McCarthy was a member of Jack Charlton’s side who famously reached the last eight at Italia 90 where they lost to the hosts.

The odds were against Ireland, who were unchanged, repeating that feat and they faced a Spanish side who could boast one of only two 100% records in the group stage.

Spain wheeled back all their big guns for the do-or-die clash in the Suwon World Cup stadium after resting most of them for their last game against South Africa.

Back came skipper Fernando Hierro, the vastly-experienced Luis Enrique, Juan Carlos Valeron, Juanfran, Puyol, Ruben Baraja and De Pedro.