Tonight Ireland seek to get their campaign back on track after being completely outclassed and could have went on to lose 5-0 only for Robbie Keane to score from a soft penalty and give Russia a scare at the end. Friday's match looked like it was played on ice, with Russia gliding around with ease while Ireland slid on the arses at every turn.
I said they had no plan b and Trappatoni's desire to have rigid midfield of Green and Whelan over players who can actually control and pass the ball in Gibson and McCarthy leaves us in danger of been caught out once we let in an early goal. Slovakia would be heavy favourites tonight only for falling meekly to Armenia on Friday night. Which of the two teams will be most disappointed? We got a result in Armenia while Slovakia beat Russia in Russia in the group so far. Now it's a level playing field again with the 3 big teams on 6 points. Russia are now firmly in back in charge of the group to win it :Russia 4/7,Rep Of Ireland 10/3, Slovakia 10/3 .
We need a draw as a minimum result but can our boys turn it around in 4 days. Will corners have Given flapping at the near post. We were a disaster from set plays and that can't happen again or Slovakia will beat us comfortably. Last time we met in Slovakia, we drew 2-2 conceding a late goal. Slovakia are better than that side but we had Staunton in charge so all is not lost. Lets hope no Irish player loses a granny this time, maternal or paternal.
Trappatoni is without Doyle and Lawrence faces a late fitness test(though he should be dropped anyways). Slovakia however are without star man Vittek and Skrtel and Miroslav Stoch could also miss out. These are bigger losses than Doyle and Lawrence and in fact if Trappatoni goes with 5 across the middle and lets McGeady do most of the attacking, we have a serious chance.
The odds are not in our favour to get the win as we normally draw these games but I wouldn't back against us again like on Friday as we normally come back out fighting after disappointing results. I think the way to play this is simple:
Back Ireland (draw no bet- if its a draw, your stake is refunded) 5/4- Full Market here
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