Doyle grabs late equaliser for Irish U21s

Ireland U21 2 Israel U21 2

The Republic of Ireland staged a rousing second-half comeback to end their miserable losing run, but their European Championship hopes are but over for another campaign.

This was a brave point earned by manager Don Givens’ side, but the defensive frailties that have undermined their performances in recent times again came to the fore.

After conceding first-half goals to Moshe Ohayon and Gal Alberman, Ireland hit back after the break through Sunderland-bound Daryl Murphy and Kevin Doyle, who is on the brink of a move to Reading.

In a rousing second-half fightback Ireland made it 2-2 in the 77th minute when Doyle simply tapped home after Al-Madon pushed a Tabb drive into his path.

As Ireland searched for the winner, Al-Madon then made a fine save to keep out McGeady’s rasping, top corner-bound right-foot drive.

Israel could have won it in the 86th minute, but Cohen hit the post, with sub Weeam Fares Amasha firing the rebound into Henderson.

On the counter, Joe O’Brien had a chance to steal it for Ireland, but Al-Madon again came to his side's rescue.