Lucy Quinn reliishing Aviva date & chance to make more history

Lucy Quinn is already looking forward to making more history with the Republic of Ireland as their maiden World Cup adventure winds down.

The Girls in Green will be flying home after Monday's clash against Nigeria in Brisbane, their dreams of making it to the last 16 shattered by last Thursday's 2-1 defeat to Canada.

It was a bitter pill to swallow, but there's more milestones to achieve for a team that's made a habit of breaking new ground.

In September, Ireland will play at the Aviva Stadium for the first time when Northern Ireland travel to Lansdowne Road for the opening game of the inaugural UEFA Women's Nations League campaign.

It's a nice carrot and fresh motivation following a whirlwind few weeks Down Under.

"It was exciting when it was announced, because it has maybe been in the works for a while," said Quinn.

"We love playing at Tallaght, with the atmosphere, and you always want the seats to be filled.

"But it's also about pushing the women’s game and the momentum we’ve had. I haven’t thought that much about it, because obviously we are in the tournament here, but hopefully it will be absolutely packed and another first. Hopefully I’m still fit, and selected and that I’ll be a part of that."

Quinn had a strong first half against Canada but was withdrawn for Abbie Larkin at half-time. The Birmingham midfielder has had to really scrap for minutes over the last year, but she's hoping for more opportunities to shine.

"Not that I'm aware of," the 29-year-old said when asked if her withdrawal was pre-planned.

"It's such a talented squad and they felt the game needed a young player like Abbie Larkin to come on and cause trouble.

"I’d had a conversation with Abbie previously about me doing what I could for as long as possible and