Ireland 18 Lebanon 18:  Ireland came from 10-0 down at half-time to force a draw with Lebanon at Tolka Park, Dublin, in their second qualifying match for the 2008 Rugby League World Cup.

The result, which followed victory for both teams over Russia, means they are locked on three points with the reverse fixtures to come next year.

The Irish needed a try three minutes into injury time from Salford centre Stuart Littler, who hauled himself over through the slightest of gaps near the posts, to salvage a valuable point.

"I'm disappointed and relieved," said Ireland coach Andy Kelly. "We looked like we would get nothing but one final heroic effort saved us.

"I've been involved with Ireland since the 2000 World Cup and the camaraderie in the camp doesn't change. There is a real passion and spirit in the jersey and we always enjoy it."

The Cedars, who qualified for the last World Cup in 2000, stunned their hosts by racing into a 10-0 thanks to tries from centre Daniel Chiha and second rower John Koborsi with just over half an hour gone.

But Kelly's interval pep talk did the trick as Ireland crossed for two tries in six minutes straight after the interval.

Ireland's best player, full-back Scott Grix linked well to find the line and three minutes later prop Ryan Tandy bustled over, with Chris Bridge's second conversion giving the men from the Emerald Isle the lead.

The visitors went back in front when winger Chris Salem pulled off an 80-metre interception try and two goals from Samer El Masri gave them a six-point lead which stood until Littler's late smash-and-grab act.

"The competition so far has been a massive benefit to rugby league," added Kelly. "The great thing about both the games we have played is that they have been truly competitive.

"We had targeted four points from these opening rounds but we will settle for three and we are still hoping to take our place in the finals."  PA