World Cup Qualifier: Ireland came from 10-0 down at half-time to force a draw with Lebanon at Tolka Park, Dublin, in their second qualifying match for the 2008 World Cup. The result, which followed victory for both teams over Russia, means they are locked on three points with the reverse fixtures to come in 2007.

The Irish needed a try three minutes into injury time from Salford centre Stuart Littler, who went over near the posts to salvage a point. "I'm disappointed and relieved," said Ireland coach Andy Kelly. "We looked like we would get nothing but one final heroic effort saved us."

The Cedars, who qualified for the World Cup in 2000, raced into a 10-0 thanks to tries from centre Daniel Chiha and secondrower John Koborsi with just over half an hour gone. But Ireland crossed for two tries in six minutes straight after the interval.

Ireland's best player, fullback Scott Grix, crossed the line and three minutes later prop Ryan Tandy bustled over, with Chris Bridge's second conversion giving Ireland the lead. The visitors went back in front when winger Chris Salem pulled off an 80-metre interception try and two penalties from Samer El Masri gave them a six-point lead which stood until Littler's late smash-and-grab act.

"We had targeted four points from these opening rounds but we will settle for three and we are still hoping to take our place in the finals."

SCORERS : Ireland 18 (Scott Grix, Ryan Tandy, Stu Littler tries, Chris Bridge 3 convs.) Lebanon (Daniel Chiha, John Koborsi, George Ndaira tries, Samer El Masri, 2 convs. I pen)