Martin O'Neill: 'Jon Walters epitomised the strength and character of this squad'

Republic of Ireland manager Martin O’Neill praised the second half efforts of his side, as they came from a goal down to secure what could potentially turn out to be precious point against Austria at the Aviva Stadium.

 

The Boys in Green were by their usual standards under the current managerial team off colour in the first half and Austria deservedly led at the break in this Russia 2018 qualifier. However an improved showing in the second 45 meant that Ireland, through a superbly taken Jon Walters strike, were able secure a 1-1 draw.


 

On the face of it, many would have perceived this as being a point gained, especially as Ireland started slowly and also due to the fact that Austria had good chances to double their lead before Walters would score.

 

However, O’Neill felt it could have been more and felt Shane Duffy’s disallowed goal should have stood.

 

“I thought that in the first half we were disappointing and that Austria started better than us,” said O’Neill speaking to the media after the match. “In the second half we did well and we got a good goal.

 



“Second half we really were terrific. Jon Walters epitomised the strength and character of this squad.


“We really were fantastic after the half time break in terms of drive and energy. In the end we were hard done by. I thought Duffy’s disallowed goal was a goal.

 

O’Neill had called Walters a warrior on the eve of the game and it certainly was a battling performance from the Stoke striker who deservedly got the Ireland goal.

 

With Serbia and Wales drawing 1-1 later on Sunday evening, just how crucial that point turns out to be for Ireland remains to be seen when the qualifiers conclude in the Autumn. However what it does do is that it maintains Ireland’s unbeaten status in this particular qualifying group.



 

The game on Lansdowne Road was played in front of a packed Aviva Stadium crowd. O’Neill was quick to praise the role of the supporters as well after the match.

 

“I have to say that we were backed by a ferocious crowd. They were absolutely magnificent and they really helped us.”

 

 

 

    About John O'Shea

    John is a Cork based reporter, mainly covering Cork City and Cobh Ramblers. John also reports regularly on Munster Senior League and Cork Youths League football for the Evening Echo. John has also freelanced for … View Full Profile