Ireland's Eurovision dreams were dashed yesterday after we failed to qualify for Saturday night's final.
A scaled down semi-final took place in Ahoy Arena in Rotterdam as 15 nations battled it out to secure a coveted spot this weekend.
There was some stiff competition with the likes of Norway, Cyrpus and Malta all offering interesting performances.
This year Lesley Roy represented Ireland with her rip roaring track 'Maps'.
It was a long wait for the singer to make it to the event after missing out on her first chance last year, due to the pandemic.
The singer broke down in tears as she sang her last note on stage, she thanked the crowd in attendance and watching at home on screens for their support.
While there was no doubt that Roy gave a passionate performance full of interesting visuals unfortunately it was not meant to be as the night ended in disappointment when she failed to qualify for this year's final.
Speaking after the show she said: "I gave it my all for Ireland for the last 18+ months! I am so grateful for such an amazing team and creative staging. This Eurovision experience has been so memorable during such a historic time for everyone across the globe.
Roy later added on Twitter: "Thanks folks, what a fun staging ! Thanks for trying a unique concept for us and good luck for your next artist and staging. Good Night and good Luck"
Despite the disappointing result Irish people threw their support behind Roy saying that she still put on a brilliant show.
One person wrote on social media: "I am so proud of Lesley Roy. She has been so incredible and I’m incredibly proud! #LoveforLesley always."
Another added: "Really felt for Lesley Roy after that #Eurovision2021 semi-final. The song was great, the staging was superb, but it was so complex that it seemed to distract her from the actual performance. A real shame, because I think it's the best Ireland have sent to Eurovision for years."
One person said: "Lesley roy's staging was incredibly difficult and advanced so the vocals were never going be 100%. she was consistently moving at a fast pace. credits to lesley for taking a risk, it was beautiful staging
And another said: "It was always gonna be sad losing so many talented people but it sucks just a little bit more knowing how genuinely lovely Lesley Roy has been to all of us for the past year
Irish singer/songwriter Brendan Murray added: "Lesley Roy, Take a bow! You did us all proud"
While drag queen Panti Bliss said: "Aww I feel very sorry for the lovely Lesley Roy."
The next semi final will take place on Thursday night before the main event on Saturday.
The United Kingdom, Spain, Germany, France, Italy gain automatic entry into the final as they are the ‘Big Five’ countries.
