Republic of Ireland manager Vera Pauw was overcome with emotion at the final whistle as Amber Barrett's goal booked Ireland's place in the 2023 Women's World Cup.
Super-sub Barrett was introduced in the second half after Heather Payne went off with an injury. The Donegal woman proved to be the hero of the hour as she confidently slotted past Scottish keeper Lee Gibson with the outside of her foot in the 72nd minute.
The home side threw everything at Ireland but Ireland's defence stood strong. Louise Quinn was a warrior at the back, while Courtney Brosnan's first half penalty save proved to be vital.
READ MORE: Amber Barrett's winning goal sends Ireland to the World Cup finals
"I can't believe it, I just can't believe it," said an emotional Vera Pauw after the game,"At the last whistle I thought 'how is this possible?'
"Amber's first touch made the game. Preparation is everything and the saved penalty of Courtney was not luck, we knew where it was going. We trained for everything, we were ready for every scenario. The gameplan was successful, I can't believe it."
The manager heaped praise upon matchwinner Barrett who won the game with a marvellous goal in the second half which will be watched for years to come. Taking the ball in her stride, she stepped across her marker before finishing brilliantly with the outside of the foot.
"She promised me, she said 'when I get on, I'll make that goal.' And that first touch made it all. It's just incredible the way that she finished it, so proud."
A teary eyed Pauw paid tribute to the supporters of the Irish team, choking back the tears when asked about the public's support of herself and her players.
"I want to say thank you to everybody who supported me through this difficult time. My heart is all with the country.
"I wanted this so much for everybody. They've supported me in an incredible way and supported everybody, I'm so proud.
"From the FAI board, to our colleagues to everybody who has worked at the clubs, the coaches, the players in the clubs who were always there in the home-based sessions.
"And then the crowd and the little girls. It's just amazing. I have no words yet, I can't believe it."
READ NEXT:
Roy Keane gives brilliantly typical Irish answer to Monday Night Football question
Ireland pushing for automatic Euro 2028 qualification - if bid succeeds
Irish cyclist Mia Griffin takes inspiration from Sam Bennett after getting Covid before Worlds
Damien Duff fumes over added time after late Shamrock Rovers goal beats Shelbourne
Get the latest sports headlines straight to your inbox by signing up for free email alerts
