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O'Gorman out to banish memories of Reykjavik ice rink

The last time Aine O'Gorman featured in a play-off with the Republic of Ireland, the pitch was so hard that groundsmen struggled to crack the ice with a shovel.

It was 2008, and Ireland headed for Iceland having drawn the first leg of their Euro 2009 play-off 1-1.

The Girls in Green were soundly beaten 3-0 in Reykjavik as their hosts adapted far better to the dreadful conditions.

It's taken 14 years for Ireland to get another serious crack at making a first major tournament - this time the World Cup is within their grasp - and veteran defender O'Gorman is not taking it for granted.

"I was there yes, on the ice," she reflected at the Castleknock Hotel where Ireland are based ahead of next Tuesday's play-off against either Scotland or Austria, who clash on Thursday night.

"If that game was to go ahead today it wouldn't happen. They were banging a shovel in the middle of the pitch and the ice wasn’t cracking. I think they had ice skates on and we didn’t!

"I don’t think you appreciate the moment when you’re there like you would now, that you’re on the cusp of maybe qualifying for the World Cup. Back then you’re just in the game, in the moment. Obviously we are in a great position now and looking forward to the game."

O'Gorman was just 19 back then. Now 33, the Peamount United star has experienced enough heartache to know just how big this looming showdown. Two years ago her freak own goal against Ukraine effectively ended Ireland's ambitions of making it to the Euros.

That was a desperately painful night, and the reality is that for players of her vintage, there won't be many more chances.

There's also an awareness that the national side's success can energise the domestic game - with the advancement of a semi-professional Women's

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