Pauw: It's amazing but we're only halfway there

Ireland manager Vera Pauw was in jubilant mood following the team's advancement to the playoffs - but stressed they were only "halfway there" in their quest to reach a first ever World Cup.

On a nervy evening in Tallaght, substitute Lily Agg's second half goal delivered a crucial victory over Finland, sending Ireland to the playoffs.

After some consideration, Pauw opted to stay on in the wake of Ireland's bitter Euro 2022 qualification heartbreak, a decision thus far vindicated by the team's evolution throughout the current campaign.

However, the Ireland manager stressed that the job wasn't complete. The team still have a convoluted playoff process to navigate, one which may become simplified if they can beat Slovakia on Tuesday and other results go their way.

"It's absolutely amazing. It's a feeling that's come so deep inside of the squad. We're so close," Pauw told RTÉ Sport after the game.

"When I heard of all the people at home, all the watch parties and everybody supporting us and everywhere we go, everyone is supporting us and is so warm. I have no words.

"We're not there. We need to win in Slovakia to get a chance to skip the first round.

"So we will prepare as seriously as we will need to for that. Let's celebrate today but no party.

An ecstatic Vera Pauw speaks of the pride in her side but reminds everyone that the job is still only half done - "We're not there yet, we’re half-way but this is such a great stepping stone towards the World Cup." pic.twitter.com/xaFeg7YQ7a

"We're not there yet, we're halfway. But this is such a stepping stone towards the World Cup.

"It's the first time with the crowd like this, they achieved a moment like that. I am so incredibly proud of this team, they are so special."

Ireland survived a