Player Ratings: Moldova 1 - 3 Republic of Ireland
Credit: Laszlo Geczo (ETPhotos)
Ireland will be delighted to have grabbed the three points tonight following Wales draw at home to Georgia. James McClean came up trumps tonight with his constant energy and enthusiasm going forward. When attacking in the second half, Ireland seemed frustrated, but McClean’s persistence paid off with two splendid goals to keep Ireland level at the top of Group D.
Starting XI
Darren Randolph: 5 – Looked nervous throughout. Could have done better with the goal, and his retention from set pieces was questionable.
Seamus Coleman: 7 - Another good performance from the captain. His run for the third goal was exceptional and he rarely put a foot wrong defensively.
Shane Duffy: 5 – Was slow to react to the first goal and failed to mount any offence to set pieces in the opposing third.
Ciaran Clark: 6 – Solid game and didn’t put a foot wrong. Made some exciting runs forward at the start of the second half.
Stephen Ward: 7 – Built on his impressive performance against Georgia and was as solid defending as he was as useful in attack.
Glenn Whelan: 6 – Played an important role in the second goal and made up for some stray passes by consistent throughout his general play and positioning.
James McCarthy: 5 – Disappointing level of activity. His failed shot that resulted in the second goal sums it up. Tried hard but just wasn’t quite there while still being essential to the team.
Wes Hoolahan: 8 – Started great with a sensational ball for Long. Lost the ball on a couple of occasions but still tried his best to re-imagine Ireland’s attack.
Jonathan Walters: 6 – Non-evident through much of the game. However, he did play the final pass to set up McClean’s first goal.
James McClean: 8 – Scored two well taken goals with the first one being hugely significant. At a point where Ireland were chasing the lead, McClean held his nerve to coolly finish.
Shane Long: 7 – Brilliant finish to open the scoring, but sad end to a good performance being taken off inured.
Subs:
Callum O’Dowda: 7 – Great ball in for Walters after initially coming on and worked hard thereafter.
Eunan O’Kane: 6 – Tried to get involved after coming on but lacked sufficient time to cause real issues.
David Meyler: 6 – Not afforded enough time to cause an impact.
