- Paul Fennessy reports from Lyon
PLAYING AT EURO 2016 has been a memorable experience for Shane Duffy, even if it did end in disappointment ultimately.
The 24-year-old Blackburn defender starred in Ireland’s win over Italy, while after an outstanding first half against France earlier, things turned sour very quickly for Duffy and the rest of the team.
The Derry native was sent off for stopping Antoine Griezmann from running through on goal, and Ireland struggled to recover subsequently.
“Scoring so early maybe changed it a bit,” Duffy said, reflecting on today’s match. “We were cautious with how good they were and the players they have. Obviously we had a 1-0 lead against a team that easily could go on to win this tournament. You always think ‘be cautious’. We had a good first half and then there were 10 or 15 minutes in the second half when we lost the game.”
And while towards the end of the first half, Ireland appeared to be clinging on to their lead, with both Duffy and Stephen Ward having to make superb last-ditch blocks to deny from Dimitri Payet and Griezmann respectively, the defender says the team were feeling comfortable at half-time.
“We said the start of the second half is important. They are a good team and they made a change. They went two up front and it made a difference for them. They have got good players.
“We probably could have done more for the goals as a team. It’s disappointing but we have to take the positive out of it.”
Duffy, of course, is more accustomed to Championship football with Blackburn. However, he was thrown in at the deep-end for his competitive international debut against Italy in which he earned a clean sheet and rave reviews, and the centre-back was up against world-class players again on Sunday.
Yet while the game ultimately ended in heartbreak for Ireland, and notwithstanding his red card, Duffy has looked impressive for the most part in France.
“I felt like I could play at this level. I felt comfortable out there. I feel like I have done alright, but the red card hasn’t helped me. I have tried to make a challenge for the ball.
“It’s difficult because if I don’t make it or if I leave it they score. It’s football. It’s matter of inches. It was difficult for me, but I feel like I can play here. It’s been a great experience for me coming in so late. To play a part is special.
“The Italian game was special to make it through the group. It’s special to be here in such a big game on the world stage and to play a part on it. It’s disappointing for the way it finished for me in the second half. I’ll stay positive after it. I’ll hold my head up high after it and learn from my mistakes and try to do better next time.”
The42 is on Snapchat! Tap the button below on your phone to add!
