Ireland Come From Behind To Steal A Point From Italy

Italy 1 Republic of Ireland 1

The Republic of Ireland showed marvellous application and commitment as they battled bravely to overhaul Italy after conceding a simple goal in the tenth minute of a tense World Cup qualifying tie in Bari.

Italy were reduced to ten men within two minutes of the kick-off when striker Pazzini caught John O'Shea with his elbow as they contested a header. As blood poured out of a cut over O'Shea's eye-brow Pazzini was shown the red card.

Such a blow might have imposed a defensive strategy upon Italy but even had it not, their success in scoring in the tenth minute meant it was sensible for them to defend in depth. Given Italy's historic tactical preference, this probably suited their mind-set when they went in front.

Full credit to Ireland, then, for continuing to work hard, to pressurise Italy and hunt a goal that took a long time in coming. Ireland had fleeting chances but in a goalmouth more crowded than Heuston Station on Easter Saturday, it was difficult to get a clear sight of goal.

There was always the threat of a breakaway second goal for Italy, of course, and Ireland had to guard against this even while they powered forward with drive and initiative in search of an equaliser.

The effect of Ireland's excellent performance was reflected in Italy's agitation. This was shown in the huge number of frees they conceded in their own half of the pitch, the number of corner kicks Ireland forced and the steady flow of scoring attempts by Ireland.

The boost that Italy's reduction in number so early in the game must have given Ireland was negatived by the concession of a goal that reflected no credit on Ireland's defence in the 10th minute.

Full-back Grosso was a threat to Ireland's right flank throughout the first half and he slipped away from his marker, Andy Keogh, on to Pirlo's pass before firing a ball low into the six yard box. The ball reached Iaquinta who turned it into the net.

Ireland made positional changes, substitutions and drove forward with persistence before they finally got the goal they deserved in the 87th minute.

Shay Given's long clearance down the middle of the pitch saw Caleb Folan deflecte the ball away from two defenders and Robbie Keane drew left-footed to score from 12 yards.

It was Keane's 38th goal in his 88th international and was never more welcome. Nor more deserved by Ireland who look forwards with renewed confidence to visiting Bulgaria on June 6 next.