News Snapshot:
Aoife Mannion: made an impressive debut against China. The Manchester United player is a proper, ball-playing centre-half who adds significantly to Ireland's defensive strength. Photograph: Ryan Byrne/Inpho Vera Pauw loves a low block. It has served her well. The Republic of Ireland are going to the World Cup. A monumental achievement. Here’s when reality bites. Qualification was the easy part. For Ireland to escape a group containing Australia, Canada and Nigeria, a difficult choice is needed – do we want to see an ambitious Irish side perform above themselves at their first major tournament or is the secure approach enough?...
