World Cup 2014, Copa Culiacan: Ireland 1 - 1 Columbia

Ireland secured a valuable point today against a fit Columbia side. The result puts Ireland level on points with Ukraine going into the last round of matches of the Copa Culiacan. A win against Ukraine tomorrow will see Ireland achieve top spot in the group and a World Ranking of 17th. Ireland started the game brightly and Craig Dowling maintained his impressive form, finishing clinically at the back post following a James Boyle through ball to give the Irish amputees the lead. Columbia struck back before half time, however, through a fortuitous goal. Ireland worked hard throughout the game, despite the dead heat of the Mexican afternoon and were unlucky not to score a second. Garry Hoey was harshly dismissed with a quarter of the game to go following a second bookable offence. Ireland coped well against Columbia's extra man and held on to clinch a result. With 4 points from 2 games in the Copa Culiacan Ireland's destiny is in their own hands. Tomorrow's rematch with Ukraine promises to be a cracking encounter with the winner taking the Copa. The squad has remained confident and disciplined throughout the tournament and a win tomorrow would be well deserved. COYBIG!!