Ireland praised for World Cup dignity

The Irish team have been acclaimed for their dignity in defeat in last night’s dramatic penalty shoot-out against Spain.

Matt Holland and Richard Dunne were singled out for special praise for the way they conducted themselves in the doping room straight after the match.

The outstanding Holland was called to give blood and urine samples just minutes after missing his spot-kick in the brave, but cruel finale to their tournament.

World Cup chief medical officer Jiri Dvorak said: ‘‘I was very impressed by the attitude of the Irish players and the team doctor.’’

Ireland also earned the plaudits for the way they still give so much of their time to the media despite the crushing loss.

While teams like Argentina have been criticised for their press relations, Ireland, Sweden and Portugal’s Luis Figo have all impressed with their PR.

FIFA director of communications Keith Cooper said: ‘‘Both teams that lost yesterday, lost with great dignity.

‘‘They showed us the way it should be done when you happen to be on the losing side.’’

He added: ‘‘The other day Figo gave many interviews in different languages when Portugal went out.

‘‘He proved that he is a great footballer off the pitch as well as on the pitch.’’

The record books will fail to show that Spain played extra time against Ireland with just 10 men.

Spain had already made their three substitutions when David Albelda, who had only come off the bench in the 71st minute, was forced out of the action at the end of normal time by injury.

The official FIFA match facts show Albelda was on the pitch for 49 minutes.