Roche now just one step away from FIFA goal award

Republic of Ireland Women’s team striker Stephanie Roche is still on course to win the FIFA Goal of the Year award after the list of nominees was reduced to three today.

She will now have just two to beat, James Rodriguez and Robin van Persie, to win the Puskás award.

Yessssss!!!!! Come on!! So happy right now, thank u to EVERYONE who has voted for me! ❤️🍀⚽️ oh and if you's could keep voting please!🙊😂

— Stephanie Zambra (@StephanieRoche9) December 1, 2014

Roche, the only women on the list, was shortlisted for the coveted title for her strike whilst playing for Peamount United against Wexford Youths Women's AFC on October 20, 2013.

A video clip of the goal quickly became viral, attracting the admiration of celebrities and sportspeople alike, attracting millions of views on YouTube.

A new poll will now commence, with the winner being revealed on the day of the FIFA Ballon d’Or ceremony on January 12, 2015.

Voting has RE-OPENED. Can @StephanieRoche9 be 1st woman to win? Find out in 43 days! #Puskas http://t.co/kJxNC8OUfs pic.twitter.com/2CJAnuAcnd

— FIFA Women's World Cup (@FIFAWWC) December 1, 2014

Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi are again the leading contenders for the FIFA Ballon d’Or as the world’s best player.

The pair, stars of Real Madrid and Barcelona respectively, have both been named on the three-man shortlist for the 2015 edition of the prestigious award along with Germany and Bayern Munich goalkeeper Manuel Neuer.

Current holder Ronaldo and Messi have already won the award six times between them.

Germany’s Joachim Low and Real’s Carlo Ancelotti were nominated for coach of the year along with Diego Simeone, who guided Atletico Madrid to La Liga success and the Champions League final.

Ronaldo, Messi and Neuer were also included among a list of contenders for places in the FIFPro World XI along with Manchester United and England captain Wayne Rooney and Real’s Welsh star Gareth Bale.

A number of other Barclays Premier League players are also in contention with Thibaut Courtois, Branislav Ivanovic, Vincent Kompany, Pablo Zabaleta, Angel di Maria, Cesc Fabregas, Eden Hazard, Mesut Ozil, Yaya Toure, Sergio Aguero and Diego Costa also named.

The winners will be announced at a ceremony in Zurich on January 12.