PLAYER REACTION: GAVIN CUMMISKEYhears from Ireland's old hand and new kid on the block, James McClean

CONFIRMATION CAME from Damien Duff, in his matter-of-fact manner, that Ireland are never going to be stringing passes together with Giovanni Trapattoni in charge.

Others may be screaming out for an alternative plan but that will not happen, not now and not after four years of the Italian’s stringent ways.

“Ah listen, we’re not going to try something different at this stage. We’ve played four-four-two for years, especially since the boss has come in so we know which way to play. I just don’t think we ever really got going tonight. It was just flat for some reason.”

The crowd needed a lift. When they finally cleared their throat it was for James McClean. They seemed almost desperate to roar about something so the young Sunderland strikers much commented upon debut would have to suffice (until Simon Coxs late goal).

“I grew up a fan and the reception I got was a dream,” said the 22-year-old Derry native.

“Yeah, it was huge. Got a bit of friendly banter (from Alan Kelly) so any nerves I had went away there and then.”

Some “what dreams are made of” comments followed.

Thankfully Duff came through the mixed zone as well. A man at the other end of the international spectrum to McClean, he put some sense to the crowd’s immediate, unconditional embracing of the new recruit.

“He is having an exciting season at Premiership level so people want to see him pull on the green, the white shirt tonight. Hopefully he’ll make the squad for the summer.”

Even Duff has been dreaming of what lies ahead. It’s been 10 long years since he last graced a major tournament. Just like McClean and the crowd, Duffer is also dreaming about what might happen in Poland.

There are potential nightmares ahead too. If this was a dry run for the summer, it is deeply concerning. Ireland barely touched the ball when this game mattered. Duff admitted as much would happen again in June.

“It will happen a lot in the summer. Obviously, we’re playing Spain, world and European champions, Italy and Croatia. Three of the best teams in Europe so they are going to have a lot of the ball so we’re going to have to keep a good shape about us . . ..

“Spain pull and drag you all over the pitch. We’re going to have to work as hard as ever against them and against the other two. Hopefully we get out of the group and then it is whoever we get.”

What a thing to say. The toughest group imaginable and Duff is thinking of the perfect scenario. “We probably made them look better than they are tonight. Obviously we’ll improve a lot for the summer. The three teams in our group are tougher opposition as well.”

Dont expect anything different from Trap’s men, just expect it to be done a lot better.