'It's a cup final' - Páirc hero Amber Barrett keen for Ireland to complete job against France
AMBER MEANS GO: Amber Barrett celebrates after scoring the winner at SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh. Pic: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile
For Amber Barrett, the choice is extremely difficult.
Which of her now two iconic match winners for Ireland does she prefer?
Her unforgettable toe poke against Scotland at Hampden Park that secured qualification to the 2023 World Cup, or her poachers finish last Friday night in the 90th minute against the Netherlands which could go a long way to securing qualification to the 2027 World Cup.
“Do you know what, it's actually very hard to compare,” admitted Barrett, knowing Ireland still have a massive job to do in France on Tuesday if they are to begin making plans for the finals next summer in Brazil.
“Hampden was the final. This is kind of the semi-final tonight in a way. Having moments that have such an impact on potentially where we end up and being a part of that is extremely special.
“We looked at an incredible video today as nearly a source of motivation. We actually went back to Katie's goal against Sweden away in 2022. We talked about how important that moment was, even though we drew the game, that result was so important for us getting to the World Cup. Maybe that was our moment tonight.
“I'm delighted, really, really delighted. I don't really have a lot of words to describe that. It's euphoric. It's unbelievable. It's just so much pride and gratitude. That was incredible.
“It (Tuesday’s match in France) is a cup final in the way that a win takes us to the World Cup, but also, we don't have anything to lose.
“We've secured our position in either second or third place in the group, depending on the next couple of results.
“I think at the very start, everybody was trying to avoid position four because of what way you go through the playoffs.
“So, I think that the fact that we got to the point where we did now, where we're in contention to potentially win the group, it's amazing character and resilience shown by this group.”
Abbie Larkin thought she might have scored the winner against the Dutch when she made it 2-1, to go with her earlier assist, but nonetheless she continues to be a growing influence for the team, after arguably her best performance to date for Ireland.
“I mean, I'd say I gave my all for most of the Ireland performances. But yeah, this could be one of my top one,” added Larkin.
“I think as well playing my club football, playing regularly has definitely helped me. So, yeah, feeling really confident. Can't wait for France.”
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