Belgium take bronze in Limerick
Ireland's Powerchair football team ended a memorable debut European Nations Cup with a dramatic penalty shoot-out showdown against Belgium in the third-placed play-off at University of Limerick today, but were out of luck.
The team that includes Trim man Thomas Winers produced one of their best displays of a brilliant week with a dramatic 0-0 draw with the highly-regarded Belgians and extra-time failed to produce a winner.
Emer O’Sullivan’s scored Ireland’s spot-kick but unfortunately for the home side three Belgians hit the target to clinch the win in the most dramatic fashion.
“It was an incredible performance from our side,” said coach Nick Harrison. “We had a few chances but just didn't get the rub of the green - when it went to penalties the Belgians couldn't be beaten but we could not be prouder of the players. Roll on the World Cup!”
Ireland’s team will now turn their minds to the World Cup in 2015
The French team ended up claiming the title after a 5-0 victory over England in the final.
IRELAND - Thomas Winters, Aoife McNicholl, Thomas Donogher, Emer O’Sullivan (C), Patrick Flanagan, Emmet Daly, Keith Hayes, Neil Sheehan.