Kerr expects red-hot Dutch

Brian Kerr believes the Republic of Ireland can go into the “hot” atmosphere of the Amsterdam Arena to face Holland on Saturday with plenty of confidence from their recent end-of-season friendlies.

Ireland beat Jamaica 1-0 in the final match of the Unity Cup at The Valley last night, which was their third game in the space of just seven days.

Kerr was without several first-choice players for various reasons, and so opted to give some of his fringe players a taste of senior football as he aims to build a squad capable of qualifying for the 2006 World Cup.

Coventry’s attacking midfielder Graham Barrett made the most of his opportunity with the winning goal last night during the first half of what turned out to be fairly tame contest despite pockets of good play from both teams.

Kerr, though, is looking forward to meeting Holland, who are fancied to impress in Portugal this summer.

“I am expecting it to be hard going. I am sure it will be a hot night for us in Amsterdam,” he said.