We've had our problems in recent times, but thank God that Ireland bowed out of Landsdowne Road on a high. I realise that European minnows San Marino should never have been a test for the Boys in Green, but after our trip to Cyprus, I have to admit that until we'd gone a couple of goals up on them, I was unable to relax and enjoy the show.A couple of dodgy passes out of defense aside, it was a pretty accomplished display for the fans to watch. San Marino never looked like threatening Shay Given's goal, even from the set pieces that should have been their most likely route to scoring.
A man-of-the-match winning display from Robbie Keane, including his first ever international hat-trick, saw Ireland take 5 unanswered goals from the game. A deflected Andy Reid free-kick, and a great header off the underside of the crossbar from Kevin Doyle rounded off the scoring for the home side.
So, the Irish faithful left Landsdowne road for the last time with plenty to smile about. (Not least Federico Crescentini's hairstyle. And I use "style" in the loosest sense of the word!). Now it's onwards to Croke Park (after a quick trip to San Marino) to face Wales in a historic match that will hopefully keep those smiles just as wide.
1 comment:
Good to read your stuff on the team...keep going. Off to Croke Park this Saturday!
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