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'It was one of those nights. We couldn't get near them'

PERHAPS IT’S no bad thing that Andorra are next to make the visit to Dublin 4

Thu Aug 12 2010 - 01:00

PERHAPS IT’S no bad thing that Andorra are next to make the visit to Dublin 4. Because, on the evidence of last night, it could take a bit more time for Ireland to find their feet in their all-singing, all-dancing (precious little shouting) new home.

Argentina, still smarting from their World Cup disappointment, had insisted they were not here merely to make up the numbers. The specially invited guests at the FAI’s housewarming party looked as if they owned the place, leaving their hosts chasing the late summer shadows.

Lords of the new manor, Messi, Di Maria and Higuain gave the Irish defence a thorough going over with the little Barcelona maestro pulling the strings expertly until he was replaced on the hour mark. Kevin Kilbane was singled out early on but the entire back four were made to look foolish, unable to cope with his vision, energy and probing.

With Giovanni Trapattoni tucked up in his hospital bed, it fell to Marco Tardelli to assess the performance. The Irish number two preferred not to dwell on Angel di Maria’s controversial winner and concentrated instead on an improved performance after the break.

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“I think we played very well in the second half,” Tardelli said. “In the first half the team was afraid. I don’t know why. I think maybe the night was very important. It was an important night for our captain.”

Of Trapattoni’s health, his assistant added: “I spoke with Giovanni before the match. He told me to decide what I wanted. Giovanni stays very well. I’m very happy, he has been operated on and everything is okay.”

Robbie Keane, on the occasion of his 100th cap, was subdued barring a couple of late half-chances. But, on a “difficult” night, the skipper was full of admiration for the Albiceleste.

“It was obviously a very tough game for us, playing against a world class team,” said Keane.

“It was one of those nights. We couldn’t get near them, to be honest. They have some of the best players in the world, people like Messi, who was unbelievable again tonight. Taking the positives, a few lads made their debut and Keith Treacy played well when he came on . . . it’s a proud moment for me and my family. It would have been nicer to have topped it off with a result.”