International Preview: Republic Of Ireland -v- Gibraltar
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REPUBLIC OF IRELAND
The Republic of Ireland will be hoping to make it two wins from two in Group D of the 2016 European Championship qualifiers when they host UEFA newcomers Gibraltar for the first time on Saturday evening.
Both sides enjoyed rather contrasting starts to their respective qualifying campaigns last month with the Boys in Green enjoying a smash and grab 2-1 win away to Georgia and Allen Bulla's side succumbing to a 7-0 drubbing at the hands of Poland in their first ever competitive game.
However, Irish boss Martin O'Neill believes Gibraltar may very well pose a much sterner test than the form book suggests.
''We are expected to win, don’t get me wrong'', the former Celtic manager said.
''There’s a difference. We are expected to win and that’s our intention. But that’s it. We might not be able to break them down as easily as one might think. The emphasis is on us, we know that. Gibraltar are not expected to beat us.''
On the injury front, the defensive duo of Seamus Coleman and Richard Keogh will both miss out with hamstring injuries along with James McCarthy (thigh) and recently returned custodian Shay Given (hip).
GIBRALTAR
Gibraltar will make another little piece of history this weekend when they make their first ever competitive away appearance.
With just four members of Allen Bulla's squad plying their trade outside Gibraltar's domestic league including Preston North End defender Scott Wiseman and Bristol Rovers winger Jake Gosling, a result on Saturday would appear to be a tall order for UEFA's newest member. Eager to
see an improvement on last month's heavy defeat to Poland, Bulla insists belief will be vital to his side if they are to experience an upturn in fortunes.
"It is going to be a tough test again for my players, especially on a stadium that looks to be packed, but it's about keeping talking to them, making them believe in themselves" he said.
Referee: Leontios Trattou (Cyprus)
MATCH STATS
Gibraltar have won once, drawn twice and lost on four occasions in the six matches they have played since assuming UEFA membership last year.
The Republic of Ireland are looking to win three successive games for the first time since November 2011.
Captain Robbie Keane will make his 136th international appearance if he takes to the field this Saturday.
BETTING
Republic of Ireland 1/100; draw 16/1; Gibraltar 28/1
PREDICTION
3-0 to Ireland
Republic of Ireland:
Injured: Seamus Coleman (hamstring), Richard Keogh (hamstring), Shay Given (hip), James McCarthy (thigh)
Doubtful: None
Gibraltar:
Injured:Not available
Doubtful: Not available
