Noble goals put Ireland to the sword

Republic of Ireland 0 England 3

Stuart Pearce’s accomplished side, stronger, taller and brimming with Premiership talent, did all the damage in the first half and, despite some spirited resistance, Ireland had no real answer in the face of manifestly superior opposition.

The game was effectively over as a meaningful contest inside the first 30 minutes. Ironically, Ireland had begun brightly enough, with positive work by Owen Garvan and Stephen Quinn in the middle of the park and strong running up-front from Billy Clarke and Anthony Stokes.