Irish duo stress the positives

IRELAND’S man-of the-match Shane Long said he and his team-mates were generally happy with their display despite losing to Norway at a somewhat muted Aviva Stadium last night.

Tipperary man Long fired Ireland in front from a fifth minute penalty, his fifth goal in 16 appearances for his country, after Norway skipper Bred Hangeland hauled him down inside the area.

But a stunning free kick from Morten Gamst Pedersen and a late winner from Erik Huseklepp gave the Norwegians the spoils.