Second spot suits Keane for now

Robbie Keane has admitted the Republic of Ireland would happily have settled for being seven points clear in second place in World Cup Group 8 at the halfway stage.

The Republic passed up the opportunity to maintain the pace with leaders Italy last night when they could ony draw 1-1 with Bulgaria at Croke Park, as Kevin Kilbane’s late own goal denied them a fourth victory in five attempts.