New Jersey turns Green as Brosnan heads to Sydney

Pride, passion and privilege are the three P's Courtney Brosnan is packing in her suitcase as Ireland head Down Under for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

The Everton goalkeeper has emerged as a vital player in Vera Pauw’s squad, ever present in qualification, and ready to guard the Irish net in Australia and New Zealand.

The euphoric memory of Amber Barrett’s play off winner against Scotland triggered a moment in history for Irish football as Pauw’s team finally clinched their World Cup dream.

The scene of Barrett racing clear of the Scotland defence is the image that has been replayed from that incredible night at Hampden Park, but Brosnan’s role in Glasgow reflected her Ireland career, composed and crucial for 96 minutes.

Her first half penalty save was the springboard for Pauw’s charges in Glasgow, as was her 'grace’ under fire in the closing stages, as the hosts fought to maintain their own World Cup hopes.

However, focused praise bounces off the New Jersey-born stopper, as commitment to the wider cause remains the focus.

"It’s a very exciting and super proud moment for us. A historic moment in the country and everyone feels privileged to be part of it", she said.

"It was a great qualifying campaign for the whole squad, and me personally. I’m very proud of the role I played to help get us here.

Brosnan’s delight and confidence beams through, as the squad continue their preparations, but she admitted the difficult decisions of omissions have been tough on a close-knit squad unified by qualification.

Pauw has not shied away from the difficulties of telling players they would not be boarding the plane from Dublin next month.

The Dutch coach spoke passionately about how tight calls over players carrying injuries had caused her