Dion Fanning: History is out of the way, Ireland can now return to days of miracle and wonder

The future is now all that concerns Ireland, a future where this team can get on with business.

BIG CHANCE: Katie McCabe of Republic of Ireland in action against Steph Catley of Australia during the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 Group B match between Australia and Republic of Ireland at Stadium Australia in Sydney, Australia. Photo by Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

“Come on Courtney.” As Australia prepared to take the penalty the cameras caught Marissa Sheva mouthing these words before closing her eyes as if in prayer.

Sheva had given away a penalty with a careless foul, turned to look anxiously at the referee, then asked if VAR could overturn the decision. With all lines of enquiry shut down, she had only one appeal court left: Courtney Brosnan.