Kyra Carusa: Ireland getting comfortable at being uncomfortable

Republic of Ireland striker Kyra Carusa thinks the team are getting 'comfortable at being uncomfortable' as their World Cup preparations ramp up with a second challenge match against USA tonight.

Vera Pauw’s side arrive in Missouri on the back of a very creditable 2-0 loss to the world’s number-one-ranked side on Saturday, and the San Diego-born player believes that these are the sort of challenges that will sharpen their edges ahead of the tournament in Australia and New Zealand this summer.

"Our games, especially against the US, are on the world stage right now," she told RTÉ’s Tony O’Donoghue.

"They are very much being watched so I'd say that we feel the same way, this is why we want to take on these opportunities, these big challenges, these step ups in our game.

"We want to be able to be comfortable with being uncomfortable, you've got to be that way if you’re competing in the World Cup and I’m excited for us."

Carusa made a big impression in Texas at the weekend playing in the lone striker role.

She had a goal ruled out for offside and generally caused discomfort for the home defence. Carusa said that she’s grateful for the trust Pauw has placed in her and hopes it something that she continues to experience.