Darron Gibson ultimately finished on the losing side in a rare outing for Manchester United. The Republic of Ireland international started and finished Man Utd’s FA Cup semi-final game against Everton at Wembley Stadium. John O’Shea had been rested as manager Alex Ferguson opted to field a much weakened side in what used to be regarded as England’s Blue Riband event. However, a penalty shoot-out win for Everton after 120 minutes produced no goals means there will be no Irish involvement in this year’s FA Cup Final.

Elsewhere, the Manchester City trio of Shay Given, Richard Dunne and Stephen Ireland had another day of mixed fortunes. Ireland claimed a couple of assists as City ground out a 4-2 win against relegation doomed West Brom, but City had looked set for another off day after they let a 2-0 lead slip before powering ahead again after the scores had been tied up at 2-2.

Robbie Keane and Damien Duff both played but did little of note as Tottenham Hotspur beat Newcastle United also in the Premiership.

A couple of Irish players were on the scoresheet on Sunday, scoring for either side in the East Anglian derby. Dave Mooney headed visitors Norwich in front after 16 minutes but Alan Quinn levelled for home side Ipswich inside ten minutes. Ipswich would go on to win 3-2. Also in action for Ipswich was Alex Bruce while Gary Doherty and Alan Lee lined out for Norwich.