Troy Parrott's actions on the pitch included scoring Ireland's opener and successfully converting a penalty in the shoot-out, demonstrating his skill and composure under pressure.
Seamus Coleman remains a vital presence for Ireland, showcasing leadership qualities that inspire his teammates. The upcoming play-off is not just a game; it represents a significant moment in Irish football history.
Eanna Hardwicke cannot really remember Saipan. Not Saipan the place, a small Pacific Island 200km north-east of Guam. Nor, thankfully, Saipan the film, in which he stars, and which I'm hoping to discuss with him at length this afternoon. No, he means Saipan the incident, Saipan the event, Saipan the crisis that has baffled and incensed Ireland's population for a quarter of a century.