Andrews praises Ireland fans

Republic of Ireland midfielder Keith Andrews has paid tribute to his team’s fans after their 4-0 loss to Spain at Euro 2012 on Thursday.

Giovanni Trapattoni’s side were thrashed in Gdansk with a double by Fernando Torres and goals from David Silva and Cesc Fabregas sending Ireland crashing out of the tournament.

Speaking to RTE after the game, Andrews expressed his disappointment with the result but immediately showered praise upon the travelling support.

“We shot ourselves in the foot again by conceding silly goals. Spain are such a quality side and punish mistakes,” Andrews said.

“We are playing for pride (against Italy) now and for the fans who have travelled in their thousands to support us.

“(I’m) bitterly disappointed. You could hear the fans here, they are an absolute credit to the country and the team.”

“Unfortunately we weren’t able to give the fans what they deserved.”