One to relish as Ireland get mix of passion and power just right

If I may, I would like to begin this piece on a personal note, one directly related to what was a terrific result for Ireland on Saturday night.

The record shows that the 1-0 win in Vienna was our first victory over Austria since a famous European Nations Cup game in Dalymount Park in October 1963.

Although I was only seven at the time, it’s a match and an experience which remains vivid in my memory, since not only was it my first time being brought to see Ireland play but, to complete my excitement, my brother Ray was playing in a side which won a thrilling contest 3-2 with a last-minute Noel Cantwell penalty.