Ireland/Russia: Ireland win out 2-0

Rep of Ireland 2, Russia 0 (full-time)

Ireland began their countdown to this summer’s World Cup finals with an enterprising victory over Russia which probably posed more questions than it yielded answers for boss Mick McCarthy.

Certainly, the euphoria which swept across Ireland in the wake of the Republic’s qualification for the finals was in evidence during a dominant first half of the opening period as McCarthy’s side looked like a team riding the crest of a wave.

First-half goals from Millwall winger Steven Reid and Leeds striker Robbie Keane were enough to give the Republic victory over a Russian side they will again meet in the qualification stages for the next European Championships.

McCarthy, clearly having gained special dispensation before kick-off to play more than seven substitutes, then made three more in the 73rd minute - with Richard Sadlier making his debut in replacing Robbie Keane.

The woodwork again denied Ireland in the 88th minute, Clinton Morrison hitting the post from close range in front of a superb crowd of 42,500.

Roy Keane was then taken off in the 88th minute, with Matt Holland his replacement - while Niall Quinn came on in injury time to complete the 12 substitutions.