Spain sublime as Irish crash out

14 June 2012 21:50

Fernando Torres marked his return to the Spain team with a well-taken double as the Republic of Ireland's Euro 2012 dream came to a painful end with a 4-0 defeat.

Torres struck after just four minutes and then again 20 minutes from time either side of David Silva's superb finish as the reigning champions completed a routine victory over Giovanni Trapattoni's men, with substitute Cesc Fabregas completing the job late on.

Victory over Croatia on Monday evening will ensure Spain top Group C, but Ireland are heading home regardless of what they do against Italy in Poznan.

Source: PA