GORI: The Republic of Ireland’s forward Katie McCabe fired a hat-trick and powered her side to thrash the hosts Georgia 9-0 in the FIFA Women’s World Cup UEFA Qualifiers, here on Monday.
In the qualification Group A fixture between Ireland and Georgia, the touring side displayed a dominant performance throughout the match as they strengthened their bid for the qualification into the biggest event.
The striker McCabe started the proceedings for Ireland as she netted the opening goal just six minutes into the game. The early lead then motivated Niamh Fahey to score her maiden goal in more than a hundred appearances for the national side.
Megan Connolly then soon made it three as she bundled home a corner in the 18th minute. Despite a flying start the touring side, however, got a bit sloppy in the field before McCabe struck again moments before the first half with an audacious dink.
The touring side did not seem to have eased out in the second half as they continued their domination over the home side as Louise Quinn bagged herself a couple before McCabe earned herself a hat-trick in the 75th minute.
With the platform set, the Irish debutant Abbie Larkin pounced on the opportunity as she also made it to the list of strikers by netting her first goal on her competitive debut. Denise O’Sullivan, on the other hand, made it just in time with an excellent spin.
Following this resounding victory, Ireland acquired the second spot in the Group A of the FIFA Women’s World Cup UEFA Qualifiers, while Georgia remained at the bottom.
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