Cox wants Ireland to play with pride despite early exit

The striker hopes for a good finish to the tournament and would like to see his side pick themselves up and go out on a high in their final group game against Italy

Simon Cox was disappointed not to get anything from their game against Spain and wants to play with pride in their last match despite already exiting the tournament.

The Irish huffed and puffed throughout the game but could not get anywhere near a Spanish midfield that consisted of Xabi Alonso, Xavi and Andres Iniesta.

They had their chances, with Cox himself forcing a fine save from Iker Casillas, but were outpassed and outthought in a match against the current European Championships and World Cup winners.

Ireland still hold the key to Group C as a win or a draw for Giovanni Trapattoni's men would see them knock the Italy out of tournament, sending Vicente Del Bosque and Slaven Bilic's men through in the process.

The win would also guarantee third spot in a tough group and that's what the West Brom striker is aiming for.

He told press after the match: "It was difficult. They have the likes of Alonso and Xavi and Iniesta. I was a little surprised that [Kevin] Doyle came out.

"We have to try to pick ourselves up and establish a bit of pride even though we're on our way home."