The Republic of Ireland thrashed Kazakhstan 5-0 in the World Cup qualifying play-off first leg in Astana, with Kyra Carusa scoring twice. Chloe Mustaki opened her senior Ireland account and also supplied assists, Emily Murphy scored and Abbie Larkin added a goal before half-time. Kazakhstan were reduced to 10 players after captain Yulia Myasnikova was sent off by referee Karoline Jensen, and goalkeeper Nazym Ismailova left injured and was replaced by Angelina Portnova. Carla Ward made three changes at the break, bringing on Amber Barrett, Leanne Kiernan and Tyler Toland for Kyra Carusa, Emily Murphy and Megan Connolly. Carusa’s opener came from a Chloe Mustaki cross and was her 14th international goal. Ireland’s dominant away victory leaves the tie effectively poised for a return leg at Páirc Uí Chaoimh next Tuesday.
