Frustration for unused substitute Barrett in Ireland's narrow loss to Australia

Amber Barrett was left on the substitutes’ bench as the Republic of Ireland were defeated by a single goal by Australia in their opening fixture of the Fifa Women’s World Cup in front of 75,784 at Stadium Australia in Sydney. 

After a scoreless first half, Steph Catley's penalty after a foul by Marissa Sheva proved to be the winner to give the co-hosts a 1-0 victory against an Irish side who defended well for the most part and were the ones pushing late on for a leveller. 

The closest they came was deep in injury time when Australian goalkeeer Mackenzie Arnold saved Katie McCabe’s shot. Beforehand, a curling free-kick from Megan Connolly deflected off the hosts’ wall and clipped the roof of the net.

Australia were dealt a blow before kick-off with the news that captain Sam Kerr was unavailable due to a calf injury. Ireland dug in for the first 45 minutes with Courtney Brosnan never overly tested despite Australia dominating possession. 

Following the 52nd minute Catley goal, Ireland held firm and caused Australia a number of awkward moments, particularly from six second half corner-kicks from McCabe and Connolly. Chasing a goal, things seemed set up for the introduction of Milford native Barrett late on but she remained on the bench for the entirety of the contest, alongside Ciara Grant from Letterkenny.

The next match in Group B takes place tomorrow at 3:30am at the Melbourne Rectangular Stadium when Canada take on Nigeria. Ireland are back in action against the Canadians on Wednesday in Perth.