WE HAVE DONE NATION PROUD

O'Brien hails his side as role models after last-16 defeat

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COLIN O'Brien has delivered a powerful message in the wake of Ireland's Under-17 World Cup last-16 defeat to Switzerland.

He watched his side bowed out in Qatar yesterday and then hailed his players for representing the Irish flag "with distinction".

O'Brien insisted images on television do not tally with his view of the country, but did not elaborate. He described his players as “role models” for young kids across the land.

Ireland topped their group with wins over Panama and Uzbekistan, and a draw with Paraguay, before they saw off Canada in the last-32 on penalties.

The Swiss proved too strong, particularly in the second-half.

Dundalk defender Vinnie Leonard gave hope to the young Boys in Green with an 83rd minute goal that halved the Swiss lead — but Mladen Mijajlovic doubled their advantage again three minutes later.

Michael Noonan’s turn and strike from the edge of the area was the best of the chances in the first 45 minutes.