Euro 2016: Ireland coach Martin O'Neill hails 'best nights of career' after win over Italy

Republic of Ireland manager Martin O’Neill said the 1-0 win over Italy that took his team through to the last 16 of the European Championship was one of the best nights of his long career. “I’ve had some great nights but this was very special tonight,” a beaming O’Neill said after Robbie Brady’s late goal in Lille took Ireland through to a dream tie against host nation France as one of the best third-placed sides. “We had an enormous support and they kept us going throughout the game. I think the players and fans fed off each other. It was great win and we deserved to win the game. I didn’t want it to be one of those nights where it was ‘if only’.”