The form of the Republic of Ireland's key players, plus the competitive environment of the group is driving the team on to new heights, according to striker Kyra Carusa.
After a first-ever World Cup finals appearance earlier this year, Ireland will now compete in the top tier of the Nations League after sweeping aside all comers in League B Group 1.
Interim manager Eileen Gleeson oversaw six wins from six, the last coming in the 6-1 victory over Northern Ireland at Windsor Park.
Just as in the home game, Carusa found the back of the net and the 28-year-old San Diego Wave front player says playing in this particular Irish team gives you opportunities in attack.
"I’m playing around people who are in such great form," she told RTÉ Sport. "How many of my goals have been sent by Katie? That is unreal, when you are playing with a player like that.
Kyra Carusa, who scored against Northern Ireland in both Dublin and Belfast, pays tribute to her in-form team-mates. pic.twitter.com/Tq2oOrUhLy
— RTÉ Sport (@RTEsport) December 5, 2023
"A lot of us are playing at a high level. We compete and we are challenging each other and we are getting the benefit of that."
Another of the half a dozen goal scorers on the night was Lucy Quinn, who broke the deadlock in the 37th minute, firing past the wrong-footed goalkeeper Maddy Harvey-Clifford.
The Birmingham City striker says that there is more to her role than just scoring.
"I want to bring more than just goals," she said. "I want to work hard, I want to be a bit of a play-maker. I want to get the talent that we have involved further up the pitch. I feel like I did an alright job tonight."
Lucy Quinn, who scored the all-important breakthrough goal against Northern Ireland, is eyeing up more major tournament action for the Republic of Ireland. pic.twitter.com/wNa4TJyVRU
— RTÉ Sport (@RTEsport) December 5, 2023
Quinn also spoke about what it was like to play against her partner, Rebecca Holloway.
"It’s probably going to be a little frosty now, but obviously football is football, and we want each other to do so well.
"It’s very competitive…just enjoying being able to share these experiences with her."
