Boost for Ireland’s World Cup play-off hopes as Finland held by Slovakia

Ireland Manager Vera Pauw. Photo by Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

Ireland’s World Cup playoff destiny is firmly within their grasp after Finland dropped vital points in a 1-1 draw against Slovakia on Friday night.

Second seeds Finland were already playing catch-up on Ireland’s women after losing 2-1 against Vera Pauw’s side in Helsinki last October but were offered some hope when Ireland were held 1-1 by the Slovaks in their next game.