Katie McCabe hat-trick inspires Republic of Ireland to victory over Albania

Katie McCabe grabbed a hat-trick as the Republic of Ireland cruised to a 5-1 win over Albania in the Women’s Nations League at Dublin’s Tallaght Stadium.

Having beaten Northern Ireland and Hungary last month, victory in the return fixture in Albania on Tuesday could see the Girls in Green qualify from Group B1 with two matches to spare.

They took the lead after only three minutes when Abbie Larkin’s cross from the right was controlled and tucked away at the near post by Arsenal winger McCabe.

But the hosts were pegged back within three minutes after a high ball into the box was met by the unmarked Albania skipper Megi Doci.

However, McCabe struck again in the 25th minute with a deflected effort after Albania only half-cleared a corner.

McCabe almost completed a first-half treble with another deflection but this time Albania goalkeeper Viona Rexhepi was able to make the save.

Ireland got some breathing space 10 minutes after half-time when McCabe played the ball in for Kyra Carusa to add the third goal.

The pair combined again five minutes later, McCabe crossing for Carusa to head home number four.

Diane Caldwell almost marked her 100th international appearance with a goal, but her shot flew just wide.

But McCabe had the final say with a fine free-kick to cap a decent night’s work for Ireland