Stephanie Roche fails in attempt to be the first woman to lift prestigious FIFA award... but still grabs attention of football's greats

After breaking down barriers in women's sport by qualifying for top goal of the year in world football, Stephanie Roche (centre and inset) narrowly missed out on making history. But the blonde star certainly made her presence felt - winning the attention of the media and two of the sport's greatest ever players as she strutted into FIFA's Ballon d'Or ceremony in Zurich tonight wearing an eye-catching frock.                  

As the Irish international footballer strode confidently past Ronaldo and Messi to find her seat - both appeared sheepish in the presence of their latest contemporary. Miss Roche was catapulted on to the world stage after scoring a stunning volley while playing for Peamount United against Wexford in front of 95 people. The ceremony saw Cristiano Ronaldo crowned the world's best player for the second straight year and he appeared on stage with his son Cristiano junior (inset).