The first leg of the Republic of Ireland’s World Cup playoff against Denmark wasn’t exactly a thrilling spectacle as it ended 0-0.
Ireland’s tactics were clear as they looked to remain solid and exploit set-plays and long throw-ins and they frustrated the home side in a game that ended goalless.
Some poor finishing from Denmark made their job a bit easier, especially Pione Sisto, who missed a sitter around the half-hour mark after Darren Randolph palmed away a long-range effort from Christian Eriksen.
There was little in goalmouth action from either side and 0-0 was probably a fair score line.
The Irish, whose game plan was not pretty but was effective, will be hoping to get a famous win in the return leg at home on Tuesday evening, one that will see them qualify for Russia 2018.
Here’s how we rated the Irish players in the game..
Darren Randolph - 7
Made a good double save early on to keep the score at 0-0 and his handling looked solid. Had to tip a late header over the bar, which he did comfortably, before making a commanding catch as Denmark piled on the pressure.
Cyrus Christie - 6
Had Ireland’s first real opportunity as he did well to beat his man but Kasper Schmeichel saved his strike smartly. Put his body on the line around the hour mark to block ferocious shot.
Shane Duffy - 6
Made a few good blocks and clearances. Was the target for most Ireland set-plays but he didn’t get much joy from them.
Ciaran Clark - 6
Gave the ball away to Eriksen in the first half which led to a decent opportunity for the Danes. However, he and Duffy dealt well with most of what Denmark threw at them.
Stephen Ward - 6
His positioning was good all game. Rarely ventured forward but that will be from instruction rather than an unwillingness.
Harry Arter - 6
Put in a decent shift and took a few knocks but didn’t offer much with the ball. He did help keep Eriksen quiet though, which he deserves credit for.
Callum O'Dowda - 4
Had a few promising runs but other than that, he was pinned back in his own half.
Jeff Hendrick - 4
Reportedly came into the game injured and that could be the reason why he failed to do much of note.
Robbie Brady - 4
Put in a few decent set-pieces but his use of the ball in open play was pretty poor.
James McClean - 5
An ever-willing runner, as usual, but he offered zero attacking threat.
Daryl Murphy - 2
Not sure he touched the ball more than a couple of times. He had no service and was pretty much anonymous before going off with 15 minutes to go.
SUB: Shane Long - 4
Came on and ran about a bit but his touch on the sideline where he simply put the ball out of play summed the game up for Ireland in an attacking sense.