Ireland boosted by Czech draw
Kevin Kilbane bagged his sixth Ireland goal
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Wednesday, 11, Oct 2006 11:04
Ireland put the shame of Saturday's defeat by Cyprus behind them as they drew 1-1 with group D leaders Czech Republic.
Despite many injuries going into the game the Irish battled hard and went ahead in the 61st minute via Kevin Kilbane's strike, his sixth for his country.
His opportunity came after good work by Damien Duff on the right wing, he showed great pace to beat his man and crossed to the on-rushing Kilbane.
The lead was short lived as a mere two minutes later the Czechs levelled the score line through Jan Koller.
Koller, who stands at an imposing six foot six inches, was able to hold off the challenge of young 20-year-old Manchester United defender Paul McShane, before turning his shot passed Wayne Henderson in the Irish goal.
Ireland had a chance to snatch the victory late on. Duff again was the provider and his cross was headed wide by captain Robbie Keane from a glorious position in the centre of the goal.
Underfire manager Steve Staunton described the draw as "magnificent" and said that it pointed towards a brighter future that he was working to achieve.
It was the first points of the campaign for Staunton's men and they will take much from both the performance and the result against tough opposition.
Their next group game is at home against rivals Wales on March 24th next year when they will look to build upon tonight's result.