Pauw opts for Connolly in defence as Farrelly and Sheva make home debuts 

Ireland manager true to her word as she picks her strongest XI for final official warm-up ahead of maiden World Cup campaign 

FUN FAREWELL: Republic of Ireland players, from left, Niamh Fahey, Denise O'Sullivan and Grace Moloney walk the pitch before the women's international friendly match between Republic of Ireland and France at Tallaght Stadium in Dublin. Pic: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile

Megan Connolly will start in defence tonight as Ireland face France at Tallaght Stadium (8pm) in their final official friendly ahead of the World Cup.

Ireland manager Vera Pauw – who has again found herself in the eye of an historical storm this week – has lived up to her vow by naming what seems her strongest team.