Ronan 'heartbroken' after Germany defeat

REPUBLIC of Ireland senior women's manager Sue Ronan declared herself 'heartbroken' after Saturday's 3-2 defeat at the hands of Germany at Tallaght Stadium.

With substitute Stephanie Roche grabbing a last minute equaliser, it seemed Ireland would hold on for a highly credible 2-2 draw with a German side who went into Saturday's game top of the FIFA Women's World Cup Group 1 qualifying table with five wins from five in which they amassed a staggering 40 goals.

''I'm just heartbroken to be honest,'' Ronan said after Saturday's defeat.

''I definitely think we deserved something from the game. I'm particularly disappointed with the manner of the goals we conceded. Really the game should have been stopped for the clash of heads that led up to their first goal and then of course they enjoyed a huge slice of luck with their winner.''

Although hugely disappointed not to have emerged with at least a draw which would have preserved Ireland's unbeaten group record, the former Shelbourne player feels her side's performance is in itself reason for positivity.

''For most teams who play Germany, getting a result is a bonus. They tend to be a team that you just don't beat. We didn't let them play and made ourselves very difficult to break down.''

With next month's showdown at home to third-placed Russia looming, Ronan believes her side still have plenty to improve on, particularly in terms of their offensive play.'

'Our transition of play from defence to midfield to attack is definitely something that we to need to work on. Communication is maybe a bit of issue there but the main problem is probably a lack of confidence. Having said that it's possible the sense of occasion surrounding the game today might have made the players a little bit more edgy and afraid of making mistakes than usual.''