The Republic of Ireland women's senior team came within eight minutes of a famous victory over Italy only for the Azzuri to blitz the Irish with four goals in the closing minutes in the UEFA Championship Group 2 Qualifier in Sardinia.
A superb Katie Taylor effort gave Noel King's side the lead after 13 minutes, which they managed to hold onto until the 82nd minute
Italy then scored four in the final moments to break Irish hearts.
Ireland weathered an early storm and took the lead in the 13th minute from a sensational goal from Taylor.
Italian goalkeeper, Marchitelli rushed her clearance and the ball landed at the feet of Taylor who volleyed from 25 yards straight into the top-left hand corner of the net.
The Irish were dealt a huge blow after 53 minutes when Taylor, who was on a yellow card from the first half, was sent-off.
Ireland were up against it from then on and after three quick-fire goals the Italians wrapped up the scoring in the 92nd minute. Pamela Conti fired in a free-kick from the edge of the box to make the score 4-1.
Republic of Ireland: Emma Byrne, Edel Malone, Sharon Boyle, Alisha Moran, Yvonne Tracy, Niamh Fahey, Ciara Grant (C), Aine O' Gorman, Kate Taylor, Michele O’ Brien, Stefanie Curtis
Substitutes: Olivia O' Toolle, Sonya Hughes, Marie Curtin, Meabh de Burca, Lynn Bradley, Emma Griffin, Noelle Murray
