By Ade O'Connor
April 2 2003

Ireland failed to take the game by the horns, and make the most of Albania’s lack of prowess in front of goal. Misguided creation in midfield, added to the lack of zest up front saw the game finish goalless, on a night where all three points would have been priceless. The Albanian side, still riding on the magnificent victory over Russia at the weekend, started fast and reacted to the immense support from the partisan crowd. The Republic soaked up the opening salvo, relying on two top class saves from Shay Given, who had a fine game.

Earlier in the evening, group leaders Switzerland had lost two points to struggling Georgia, in a match that also finished 0-0. That result meant a victory for Ireland would leave them in a very strong position in Group 10, however, that was not to be.

Edvin Murati tested Given in the early stages of the game, before the Newcastle shot stopper produced another fine save from a Rraklli. But once the Republic had weathered the early Balkan storm, chances started to open.

Damien Duff created the best of which; a through ball, stepped over by Robbie Keane allowed Duff to turn and shoot low to the keeper’s left. Strakosha was equal to the effort however, making sure that Duff did not break the deadlock.

There were few other attempts on goal for some time. In between, Ireland showed a distinct lack of organisation and Albania looked busy going forward, worryingly so for the Irish.

No action was felt until Doherty replaced the jaded Robbie Keane for the Republic, Keane was lacking his usual sparkle after a tough week.

Ireland failed to provide the high balls into the box needed to serve Doherty to his full potential, as the goalless draw seemed a greater possibility. Kerr may well have been frustrated, given there was no shortage of high balls to Keane and Duff.

Late on, Gary Breen had a goal disallowed for offside. Though there could be no arguments from the Irish camp, as the assistant referee made a solid decision under pressure. Gary Doherty failed to stay in damaging positions, as the game petered out to a scoreless draw.

Ireland now face three home games in a row, the first being the return fixture against Albania. If the Irish are to be serious about qualification, nothing less than seven points from Albania, Georgia and Russia can be accepted.


Albania 0-0 Republic of Ireland

Albania: Strakosha, Cipi, Beqiri, Aliaj, Lala, Hasi, Klodian Duro, Skela, Murati, Tare, Rraklli. Subs: Beqaj, Albert Duro, Dede, Bushi, Dragusha, Bellai, Myrtaj.

Republic of Ireland: Given, Carr, O'Shea, Breen, Cunningham, Carsley, Kinsella, Holland, Kilbane, Duff, Keane. Subs: Kiely, Kenna, O'Brien, Healy, Doherty, Connolly.

Referee: S Farina (Italy)