Fields of Athencry

>> Girls In Green lose 2-1.. halting qualification hope >> Family of Irish star O'Sullivan proud of team

- DANNY DE VAA

THE mum of soccer star Denise O'Sullivan insisted she is "so proud" of her despite Ireland crashing out of the World Cup yesterday.

Nuala O'Sullivan said Vera Pauw's side were "brilliant" during in the tournament but admitted she was "disappointed" at the 2-1 defeat to Canada which ended hopes of progress.

The Irish Mirror travelled to Murphy's Rock Bar in to watch the game where the O'Sullivan clan watched the clash played in front of thousands of fans in Perth, Australia.

Nuala said: "It was disappointing. But I'm so proud of her. They done fantastic.

"It was brilliant. When the game was over and they were all around, I could see the tears in Denise's eyes. They were just brilliant.

"I just love the game. I think Denise did very good. I'm so proud of all the team. They all just done brilliantly."

The Girls in Green's second group match got off to the perfect start when captain Katie McCabe scored from a corner after just four minutes.

Murphy's Rock Bar erupted with celebration as punters broke into "Ole, Ole, Ole".

Ireland had plenty of possession in the first half but an unfortunate own-goal just before the break and Adriana Leon's 54th-minute winner ended our World Cup dreams. Despite trailing behind for much of the second half, Ireland continued to create chances right until the final whistle blew.

Following the match, punters inside Murphy's Rock applauded the team.

When asked about her thoughts on the game, Denise's sister Sinead told the Irish Mirror: "They played outstanding.