Tonight saw dreams of Eurovision glory for Ireland slip through Nicky Byrnes fingers as he failed to qualify for Saturday nights final.
Byrne had high hopes for tonight's performance. This years Irish entry, Sunlight, had even been labeled as the “perfect track” for Eurovision 2016.
Tonight's performance got mixed reviews from audiences all over the world but many commended Nicky’s stage presence and interaction with the audience.

Oih! #IRL #eurovision An "old" Westlife & Eurovision fan is in heaven! #euroviisut

— Marika Sorja (@MarikaSorja) May 12, 2016

First one I've seen actually interacting with the crowd! That's what happens when you come from Westlife. #Eurovision #IRL

— Amy Gerry (@Yunagirlamy) May 12, 2016

Tune is catchy and remind me a bit of popular 90's songs. But voice is just no no. His fame might help attract voters. #IRL #Eurovision

— Fajar Triperdana (@faj_art) May 12, 2016

The countries selected tonight for the final include Latvia, Georgia, Bulgaria, Australia, Ukraine, Serbia, Poland, Israel, Lithuania and Belgium. These will also be joined by another 10 countries selected on Tuesday nights semi-final. With another night yet to go we wait with bated breath for what dramatics the final of Eurovision 2016 final has to throw at us.
This is the first year Ireland’s entry has not been chosen by public vote and there has been added pressure with Sunlight being the first track on his latest solo venture.
One thing is for sure though, the 2fm presenter definitely gave it socks being the first act to get the crowd dancing along! If you haven’t seen it already, here’s Nicky Byrne performing Sunlight.