IRELAND RATINGS DANIEL McDONNELL

6 DARREN RANDOLPH

This was one of those nights where his concentration was tested and he was on hand to make an excellent early block, but penalties brought only frustration.

8 SHANE DUFFY

A level above his September displays with physical condition bringing about improvement and his superb goalline clearance in second half displaying awareness.

7 ENDA STEVENS

The left full advanced to be pivotal in a number of incisive breaks that might have yielded the breakthrough and he didn’t have too many problems defensively.

7 JEFF HENDRICK

Another game where he was moved from one midfield position to another due to his versatility. A few casual moments in possession but adjusted well to sitting brief.

6 JAMES McCLEAN

Last-minute inclusion, looked anguished to be taken off in a game where he had mixed luck on the attack but did make a vital early defensive clearance to prevent a goal.

9 DAVID McGOLDRICK

The stand-out Irish player who shone as the game opened up and better finishing arising from his work would have resulted in deserved plaudits.

6 MATT DOHERTY

Some ropey moments defensively although his quick touches helped with attacking play. This has posed as many questions as answers.

7 JOHN EGAN

This was an assured display from the Sheffield United defender who paired well with Duffy, showing a good understanding that confirms this is a long-term package.

7 JAMES MCCARTHY

Deep frustration for the Glaswegian as he’d put in a solid shift for the hour before the injury jinx struck again. Covered ground well and attempted to press higher up.

6 CONOR HOURIHANE

Frustration for the Corkman as he squandered gilt-edged chance to win after a game where he was given a greater level of responsibility.

7 CALLUM ROBINSON

Started on the right, switched to the left in one of his better displays for Ireland, even though he struggled to deliver the killer touch in the final third.

7 STEPHEN KENNY

This was a very different away display to the efforts in Georgia and Switzerland 12 months ago. The margins in this business are fine. This was a step in right direction.

SUBSTITUTES

Robbie Brady (6) for McClean 61 mins; Not always at his sharpest, but busy – Alan Browne (7) for McCarthy 61 mins: Gut-wrenching that he couldn’t convert – Callum O’Dowda (6) for Robinson 99 mins: Gave Browne the opportunity to win it – Shane Long for McGoldrick 112 mins: Not on long enough.