The big story in Irish football today should have the achievement of a first ever point in a FIFA Women's World Cup, after three encouraging performances against top opposition on the biggest stage.
Instead the news is being dominated by perceived rift between Ireland captain Katie McCabe and manager Vera Pauw, that some are comparing to Saipan in 2002.
For a full run down on the 'rift', you can read our report here, but in short, it began when McCabe asked Pauw to make changes during the game for 'fresh legs'.
After the match, Pauw was questioned over the incident and had the following response for reporters:
Why would we change? If Katie McCabe says that she wants a change, that doesn't mean [we change].
She's not the coach, eh? Everybody was doing so well - I said, 'what do you want Katie, take our best player off?'
We made the changes when they were necessary.
McCabe then tweeted '🤐'.
Support For Vera Pauw
1/2 I have a lot of sympathy for Vera Pauw. Last year she opened up about her very traumatic past & received a lot of love from the Irish public. She’s been let down on the field by a couple of players at the WC imo & whatever is going on off it. I hope she’s not feeling isolated
— Stephen Doyle (@dubsoulrebel) July 31, 2023
Am I the only one to feel that a player shouldn’t be telling a manager to make a substitution??
— Conan Byrne (@conanbyrnecb7) July 31, 2023
Anyone want to tell me why we’re now shoving Vera Pauw out the door?
— Niamh ☕️ (@NiamhoNiamh) July 31, 2023
Pauw should’ve really made a statement and whipped McCabe off and made her give the armband to Farrelly! 💪🏻😂
— Eric Barry (@fermoyboy) July 31, 2023
READ HERE: Ireland Player Ratings As World Cup Ends With Battling Draw v Nigeria
As you can see from some of the Tweets above, including one from ex-League of Ireland player Conan Byrne, many are on the side of Pauw in the argument, and believe that the manager should not be questioned during a game.
There is also a lot of support due to the progression the side has seen under her guidance.
However, McCabe has many fans herself, and is the face of this team, and hugely popular for her utter dedication to the cause.
A poll on Twitter from @KillianM2 revealed a lot more support for Ireland's captain, and these feelings seemed to be echoed by many.
Support For Katie McCabe
Team Vera or Team Katie😉
— KillianM2 TV Archive (@KillianM2) July 31, 2023
My god who is voting for Vera
— Keith Ó Gealbháin (@KeithGalvin) July 31, 2023
As much as I remain firmly team Roy.
I would like double down on my captains side.
Katie McCabe is a national treasure and attempting to throw her under the bus is outrageous. https://t.co/kfip4UZ8FF
— Eileen (@eileeno10) July 31, 2023
SEE ALSO: McCabe Vs Pauw: Ireland Row Goes From Pitch To Press Conference To Twitter
