Ireland's debut in the Women's World Cup wasn't a dream one.
But it wasn't a nightmare either.
The Irish lost by one goal to co-hosts Australia, who were playing on home ground in Sydney.
Given the number of Irish fans in the 75,000 plus crowd that home ground aspect was confined to the pitch.
And on that pitch both sides engaged in a fast and physical game that saw half-time arrive with no goals scored.
The second half would be equally contested but a penalty awarded to the Australians (nicknamed the "Matildas") would prove decisive.
It wasn't a hard foul but Ireland's Marissa Sheva, a native of Pennsylvania, pushed one of the Australians in the back. The Brazilian referee had no hesitation. The well struck penalty put the Australians ahead.
Ireland pressed for much of the remaining minutes of the match securing several corners and a free just outside the of the penalty area. But the Australians packed their penalty box and the Irish attack lacked the needed killer spark.
The final whistle brought relief for the Australians, and for sure frustration for the debutante Irish.
The narrow loss could be fortunate for the Irish as the group progresses and if goal difference comes into play. The other two teams in the group are Canada and Nigeria.
