Soccer

Republic of Ireland U-21s still in contention following draw in Montenegro

Noel King’s side still have to face rivals at home as they chase a runners-up spot in Group Six

Republic of Ireland under-21 manager Noel King.
Republic of Ireland under-21 manager Noel King.
Tue Nov 19 2013 - 20:59

Montenegro 0 Republic of Ireland 0

The Republic of Ireland under-21s trudged off the soaking Podgorica City Stadium pitch last night with their 2015 European Championship dreams intact.

Manager Noel King branded the display as the best away performance of the campaign as his side remain deadlocked on eight points with Montenegro in the pursuit of second spot in Group Six.

Aiden O’Brien spurned a gilt-edged chance to nick it for the Irish in stoppage-time when his free header was straight at Danijel Petkovi from six yards.

King believes, with Montenegro to visit Sligo in March, the chase for a play-off is still wide open.

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“After such a magnificent performance from the lads tonight, we’ll be very confident of beating them next time out at home,” he said.

From the moment Sean Murray forced Petkovi into an early save, Ireland looked the brighter of the two qualification contenders.

Murray and Anthony Forde had chances before the break while Callum Reilly blazed over after 80 minutes before O'Brien's late missed sitter.
REPUBLIC OF IRELAND: McDermott (Sandnes Ulf); M Harriman (Gillingham), S Duffy (Yeovil Town), D Williams (Bristol City), S McGinty (Sheffield Utd); C Reilly (Birmingham City), S Carruthers (MK Dons); A Forde (Wolves), S Murray (Watford), J Grealish (Notts County); A O'Brien (Millwall).