Republic of Ireland hold European champions Netherlands to a draw

The Republic of Ireland Women have held European champions Netherlands to a 0-0 draw away in their latest World Cup qualifier, albeit in controversial fashion.

Photo credit Peter Eoin. Flickr.

A penalty claim in the final few minutes as a result of an apparent hand ball had the home side livid with the referee.

Prior to the match, Ireland were boosted by the returns to the starting team of Sophie Perry and Karen Duggan. Marie Hourihan started in goal while Katie McCabe captained the side.

Colin Bell’s side absorbed an immense amount of pressure and can consider themselves very lucky to come away with what is a crucial point in their campaign to reach France 2019. The Dutch came closest to breaking the deadlock just before halftime, as they cracked the outside of the post after a period of well sustained play.

Prior to the match, Ireland were as far out as 16/1 with bookmakers to win the match in Nijmegen, with the home side at 1/12.

Netherlands were crowned European Champions in the summer after they defeated Denmark in the final.

This result means Ireland maintain their unbeaten campaign so far.