Randolph saves the day
DARREN RANDOLPH produced a series of fine saves to deny Northern Ireland as the Republic of Ireland settled for a friendly draw in Dublin.
The Republic, who went into the game having won just once in their previous nine outings, were secondbest in the first clash between neighbours since the Republic triumphed 5-0 in 2011.
But the hosts needed Randolph to make fine saves from Gavin Whyte and substitute Jordan Jones either side of the break to ensure they emerged with something to show for their efforts as the visitors, who had tasted victory only twice in 11 matches before kick-off, created the better openings.
Indeed, the home side’s only chances of note predictably came courtesy of Robbie Brady set-pieces on the midfielder’s return to the international stage following a year out through injury, with the final whistle greeted by a chorus of boos.
Northern Ireland skipper Steven Davis was frustrated with the draw. “The win was there for us,” he said. “We played very well and caused them problems, on the balance of the play we had the better of the game. We had some good chances but need to be more clinical.”
Manager Michael O’Neill added: “I am proud of the team, we were terrific on the night and had good chances, but Randolph had a good night so credit to him.”
The Republic will have to improve if they wish to stay alive in the Nations League when they travel to Denmark on Monday, though their hopes will be over if Wales fail to beat the Danes tonight.
Northern Ireland were relegated from League B after Austria drew 0-0 with BosniaHerzegovina.