McCarthy proud of defeated Ireland

The Republic of Ireland crashed out of the World Cup after a dramatic penalty shoot-out with Spain in Suwon.

With the score 1-1 after 90 minutes, the match first went into extra time and then with no further goals after 120 minutes there was the drama of penalties.

Ireland had a miserable time from the spot, losing 3-2 but Mick McCarthy was quick to praise his battling team.

He said: "I am very proud of my players. We didn't deserve to lose, we deserved to win in normal time. It's sickening.

"They are a wonderful bunch of people, these players. I am sure thrilled to have had the chance to work for them.

"You saw us all together [before the penalties]. I told them whatever happened there would be no recriminations. We have a had a wonderful World Cup. I have nothing but admiration for those players."