Ireland (5)* v (5) Italy

By Andrew Erlanger

Ireland has come from behind to defeat Italy after a gripping penalty shootout in one of the most eagerly anticipated games of the tournament.

Supporters turned out in droves for the clash of the heavyweights, setting a colourful scene for the thrilling encounter.

Italy went into the match full of confidence following their 9-3 win over the Netherlands earlier today, while the Irish were keen to make amends for their first loss of the tournament to England earlier.

It was the Italians who drew first blood with a cracking strike from Maximillano Leotta propelling his side to a one goal advantage. And when Leotta set up a second Italy were sitting pretty at 2-0.

But if there was any frustration in the Irish ranks it certainly didn't show, as they retained their composure to post two goals of their own on the scoreboard before the half time break.

A second half goal to Irish star Brian Coleman handed his side a 3-2 buffer but a blue card to the Irish at the three minute mark turned the game on its head.

With an extra man on the field, the Italians capitalised in the most stunning fashion, netting two goals in 30 seconds, which opened up a handy two goal lead before another seemed to have the game sealed.

But Ireland never gave up and in the final frenetic minutes they mustered the goals required to take the game to penalties. The sudden death shootout turned into something of a marathon after players from each side continued to hold their nerve and convert from the spot.

But an agonising near miss from Italian Abdoul Bamba gifted Ireland the most memorable of victories.

Photos: Photoworx