Nathan Collins: 'I'm not seeing many positives right now because we’re in the gutter'

Ireland captain Collins said it was heartbreaking to lose the World Cup playoff semi-final to Czechia after his side played so well

WORLD OF HURT: Nathan Collins said it was frustrating to concede a set piece equaliser to Czechia. Pic: Ben Brady, Inpho

Being down in the gutter can obscure the view ahead but dejected captain Nathan Collins insists World Cup heartache can inspire this Ireland team.

The wounds were audible in his voice at squandering a two-goal lead in Czechia, as well as the psychological advantage in the shootout, to bow out of the hunt at the playoff semi-final stage.