Trapattoni: we're ready for crunch games

Giovanni Trapattoni believes his side’s goalless draw with Wales served as excellent preparation for next month’s crucial World Cup qualifiers against Sweden and Austria.

The Republic enjoyed the better of a drab contest at the Cardiff City Stadium, and should have been celebrating a victory.

Shane Long missed two great opportunities during a spell of Irish dominance in the first half, while the impressive Robbie Brady and debutant Paddy Madden also went close.

Trapattoni was frustrated his side did not convert their chances, but was happy enough with another solid display, which extends Ireland’s strong form to a run of just one defeat in eight games.

Crunch ties against the Swedes and Austrians now lie in wait in September, with the Republic and their two rivals all having 11 points on the board as they scrap over a play-off spot.

And Trapattoni believes his men are in good shape.

“I think a draw is enough for us, but I think we deserved to win because we had three or four great opportunities to score,” he said.

“Shane Long, James McClean and Paddy Madden all had chances and we had three chances in quick succession in the first half.

“But it was important to continue our journey and play against a a strong team.

“Wales are a proud side, even though they were missing (Gareth) Bale and he is important.

“But it is important we started the season well so we can go on to face Sweden and Austria in September having achieved a good result and giving ourselves the confidence to believe we can do well in those games.”

Trapattoni also praised the performance of Madden, after the Yeovil striker’s lively debut off the bench.

He said: “He looked good, Paddy is a bit like Simon Cox in that he is quick.

“He does not have the same level of experience as Cox but he has a nose for goal.

“It gives us another offensive possibility. We have three or four strikers to choose from.

“It was good to see him in this friendly and we will continue to follow him as he is fast and he invites passes with how he drifts off defenders. He can be very useful for us.”