Euro 2012: One down, Fourteen To Go

It was clear from the get go that Ireland didn’t really have much chance of putting up a fight against Spain, and when they went 1-0 down within four minutes they might as well have just ended the game there and then. Ireland offered so little bite that even Fernando Torres looked like the cool, calm and confident character of old and not the terrified child of Chelsea. Of course, when Spain’s bench boasts the likes of Juan Mata, Javi Martinez, Jesus Navas and Santi Cazorla, and you look over at your bench and see Darron Gibson sitting there it’s quite understandable to lose all hope.

Italy’s draw with Croatia means that qualification from Group C could be out of their hands, as should Spain draw 2-2 with Croatia in the final game then their result against Ireland would be irrelevant. It would also mean that the Italian game would have no trophy to use as a distraction when people start talking about corruption.

Ireland seem to be everyone’s second team, and many have taken great pleasure in patronising their fans for being lovely, so it’ll break a lot of hearts when they make their way back home. Fortunately, the Irish will still be represented at the tournament by Jim Beglin and his witty, intelligent insight whilst commentating on ITV...

Is there any chance they can take him home with them?

Highlight

As we eagerly await England v Sweden, let's have a look at the Swedes doing a bit of target practice. Unfortunately we don't have any footage of England's strikers' training routine, but we think it's safe to assume it involves a barn door and a banjo.

Results

GROUP C

Italy 1 - 1 Croatia
Spain 4 - 0 Rep. of Ireland