Ireland winger Pat Richards felt his side had proved a point despite their narrow World Cup loss to Tonga this morning.
The Irish are considered the outsiders in Pool 3 but pushed Tonga all the way before being edged out 22-20 in Parramatta.
Wigan three-quarter Richards told Sky Sports: "There is a lot of spirit in this team and we put up a good show. It is great to be part of, I suppose.
"We just wanted a bit of respect and I think we earned that tonight from the opposition, and hopefully Samoa as well. Everyone has been talking about those two."
Richards also hailed the performance of Wakefield's Damien Blanch, his team-mate on the opposite wing who claimed a hat-trick.
He said: "He has been playing really well in Super League. He is a great player and finished off those tries well.
"We showed a lot of pride and that is all we can ask. We need to be a bit smarter at times and hopefully we can come up with the win."
Thought this was a cracking game, bar the officials and some dubious calls. As usual Ganson was the 'Man' he's like a little dictator :sly:
Anyone can support a team when it is winning, that takes no courage.
But to stand behind a team, to defend a team when it is down and really needs you,
that takes a lot of courage. #18thMan
All three Wigan Warriors representatives in the Ireland side played on Monday evening as Ireland lost out 22-20 against Tonga in a World Cup thriller in Parramatta.
Richards and O'Carroll started for the Irish while McIlorum stepped up off the bench.
Ireland produced a courageous display in going down to an agonising 22-20 defeat by Tonga in an epic World Cup Group C clash in Parramatta, despite Damien Blanch running in a hat-trick of tries..
Anyone can support a team when it is winning, that takes no courage.
But to stand behind a team, to defend a team when it is down and really needs you,
that takes a lot of courage. #18thMan
Lack of experience at international level showed for both sides but mostly for Ireland. Platt, Richards and Cassidy all made mistakes you wouldn't expect them to make and a few dropped balls in key areas.
Ireland did very well to deal with the physicality of the Tonga side and put in some good hits of their own. Ganson did help Ireland out with some decisions.
Best game of the world cup so far, was surprised how skilful both side were. Unlucky Ireland.
