Republic prepared to win ugly, insists Conor Hourihane

Stephen Kenny's Republic of Ireland face Finland at the Aviva on Sunday

Conor Hourihane wants the Republic of Ireland to retain the ability to “win ugly” (Niall Carson/PA)

Conor Hourihane has insisted the Republic of Ireland will reserve the right to “win ugly” when needed despite adopting a new style of play.

Stephen Kenny’s first match as Ireland manager saw his team attempt to play on the front foot as he looked to add a more progressive approach to the passion, organisation and resilience which have served them so well in the recent past.