Paul Fennessy reports from Parc Olympique Lyonnais
IRELAND FULL-BACK Seamus Coleman says the extra three days’ rest France got before today’s game was a factor in the Irish team’s 2-1 loss in Lyon today.
However, the Donegal native also believes the hosts and tournament favourites deserved their victory this afternoon.
“I thought we were very good first half, we played very well and had full belief that we could get something from this game.
We had the perfect start. We continued that good form in the first half and unfortunately, they showed it in the second half.
“They probably deserved (the win).”
The Irish team looked exhausted at the final whistle of today’s match and Coleman acknowledged that tiredness and the extra rest France benefited from had played a part in the defeat.
We were out on our feet in the end. There was a quick turnaround between games.
“Obviously France would have had longer to get their legs ready. It probably was a factor. I’m more just disappointed.”
Asked whether Ireland had made a statement at this tournament, Coleman added: “We were probably written off a bit after the Belgium game (when they lost 3-0).
“The future’s bright in terms of those young lads coming through.”
And is the sometimes indifferent relationship between the fans and the Irish footballing team now as strong as ever?
The bond between the players and the fans is something special. It means a lot to us.
“I don’t know about the past, I can only speak for this tournament and they were a different class. We’re very thankful and grateful to them.”
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