Dunne: We have to keep going

Richard Dunne refused to give up on qualification for the World Cup despite their hopes apparently being left in tatters following a 2-1 home defeat by Sweden.

It had started so well for Ireland when Robbie Keane blasted them ahead with 22 minutes gone, the 60th goal of his senior international career.

Johan Elmander levelled after 33 minutes with a bullet header to pave the way for Anders Svensson to finish the job and arguably, Ireland's hopes of making it to Brazil next summer.

Dunne though believes there is still a glimmer of hope and told Sky Sports 2: "It's a big blow tonight.

"We wanted four points from these two games but it's been a close group all the way through.

"Hopefully somewhere this week we will step up.

"It's very difficult now but we have to keep going, there are three games to go.

"We have just got to be proud and make sure the fans are proud of us."