Ireland's European Championship dream is over after a  4-0 annihilation at the hands of champions Spain in Poland.

Manager Giovanni Trapattoni admitted his players suffered stage fright against the best team in the world.

Chelsea striker Fernando Torres scored twice as Ireland once again made the worst possible start to a big game at Euro 2012.

The Republic were one down after four minutes as Torres, restored to the Spanish team, served notice of their intentions.

David Silva made it two early in the second-half as the writing began to dry on the walls of the Gdansk Stadium as far as Ireland was concerned.

By the final whistle they had conceded further goals to Torres and substitute Cesc Fabregas.

The Irish, whose fans sang all night, now have nothing but pride to play for against Italy in their final group game on Monday.