A Ciara Grant goal seven minutes into added time earned the Republic of Ireland a 2-2 draw at home to Romania in the UEFA European Women's Championship.
Narrow advantage
The result kept Noel King's side top of Group 5 with five points from their three matches so far, one point ahead of Croatia. The match was Romania's first of the qualifying campaign.
Unexpected lead
Ireland began brightly, with Stefanie Curtis shooting wide in the third minute, before Romania took the lead after 12 minutes, as Daniela Pufulete headed the ball past Ireland goalkeeper Emma Byrne and tapped into an empty net. The same player almost doubled the lead four minutes later, only to see the ball rebound back off the crossbar with Byrne beaten.
Keeper dismissed
Shortly before half-time, Ireland's chances were boosted by the dismissal of Romania goalkeeper Lenuta Pop, and the home side took full advantage to draw level in added time at the end of the first half as O'Connor beat substitute goalkeeper Ancuta Fulea from a narrow angle.
Late drama
However, seven minutes after the restart the home side were also reduced to ten players, as Byrne was dismissed for bringing down Pufulete just outside the penalty area. Pufulete restored the visitors' lead 14 minutes from time with a cool finish, but Grant's late intervention earned the home side a p |
