No ease to concerns as Ireland troubled by team lightyears off the quality of World Cup rivals

All things considered, especially the imperative to consign into history Ireland’s worst run in 50 years, playing the minnows was the sensible choice. Passion gave way to pragmatism

Andorra's Marc Vales celebrates scoring their first goal in front of Ireland's James McClean. Picture: INPHO/Bagu Blanco

Is there such a thing as a no-win game even when you win?

Andy Reid certainly thinks so. Ireland have only scored five or more goals twice in the 15 years since the midfielder helped a side managed by Steve Staunton to a 5-0 win over San Marino in 2006.