Amanda McQuillan on bench for game against North Korea

Although she didn't play, Johnstown woman Amanda McQuillan can stake a claim for membership of an almost exclusive club - she was on the bench today as the Republic of Ireland Women's team played North Korea in a play-off at the Cyprus Cup.

The Republic of Ireland Women's National Team claimed fourth place in the Cyprus Cup after a 0-2 defeat by Korea DPR.

Colin Bell's side fought vailantly against the highest-ranked team in the competition, but conceded late goals from Wi Jong Sim and Kim Ryu Song.

The result sees the Women's National Team finish fourth in the Cyprus Cup tournament, their highest-ever finish in Colin Bell's first four games as Head Coach.

Ireland were defensive throughout much of the contest as the dangerous Kim Phyong Hwa was denied by the post in the ninth minute and she was denied again by Emma Byrne with a fantastic diving save two minutes after the break.

Ireland had few chances as Katie McCabe's 20-yard effort sailed over the bar in the 51st minute before Stephanie Roche's central free-kick was easily saved with 30 minutes remaining.

North Korea continued to increase the pressure and with 15 minutes remaining, Wi Jong Sim's cross floated over Emma Byrne and into the top corner.

Five minutes from the end, with Ireland pushing forward, Kim Ryu Song found space and rifled an incredible 30-yard shot into the top right-hand corner to seal the game for the Koerans.

Republic of Ireland - Byrne (GK), O'Gorman (Berrill 90), Caldwell, Quinn, Scott, Duggan, Roche (Shine 90), O'Sullivan (Murray 90), McCabe, Connolly, Kiernan (Littlejohn 85). Subs - Hourihan (GK), Amanda McQuillan (GK), McCarthy, McLaughlin, O'Riordan.