Roche and Dean Zambra at the event. Source: Andreas Meier/INPHO

STEPHANIE ROCHE HAS finished second behind James Rodriguez in the 2014 Puskas Award.

The Dubliner lost out to the Colombian attacker at tonight’s Ballon d’Or awards in Zurich despite receiving 33% of the 3.3 million votes cast online.

Real Madrid star Rodriguez picked up 42% for the stunning volley against Uruguay at last summer’s World Cup while third-placed Robin van Persie gained 11%.

The 23-year-old — who was outstanding as Colombia reached the quarter-finals only to lose to Brazil — earned a big money move to Real Madrid on the back of his performances at the World Cup and said this was a special award for his country.

“I am happy, I would like to thank all those who voted,” said Rodriguez.

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“It is a very special goal for me and for all of Colombia. These are words of happiness and gratitude.”

Additional reporting by © AFP, 2015