Ireland 2-2 Italy

A dramatic final two minutes saw the Republic of Ireland take and throw away a lead to draw 2-2 as honours ended even in the World Cup qualifying match held at Croke Park.

The home side took the lead after a frantic opening through a well worked free kick. Noticing the Italian backline sitting deep inside their penalty area, Liam Lawrence cut the ball back for the waiting Glenn Whelan who’s first time effort gave Buffon no chance and gave the Republic a dream start to the game.

The lead was well deserved as the home side started at a frenetic pace buoyed by the vocal support of the Irish crowd. But slowly the Italians discovered their helpful knack of keeping possession of a football.

In the 23rd minute Fabio Grosso sounded a warning to the Irish goal with a volley which was saved well down to his left by Shay Given. A minute later the Italians equalized.

A corner swung over from the left found the head of an unmarked Mauro Camoranesi who directed a header past Given despite his best efforts. The goal relaxed the Italians who begun an exercise of keep ball, frustrating the tireless Irish.

Their composure almost paid off directly after half time as a free kick was directed into the net by Legrottaglie but was ruled out incorrectly for offside.

Midway through the half and another snap shot by Gianluca Zambrotta was once again saved by the ever reliable Shay Given.

With five minutes remaining a rare attack by Ireland involving a typically bustling run by Stephen Hunt resulted in a free kick after a cynical trip by Zambrotta.

The free kick, delivered with whip and pace was perfect, matched by a diving header straight out of a comic book by Sean St Ledger and the Republic of Ireland had the lead against all odds.

An automatic place for the World Cup now seemed a distinct possibility and the crowd sensed it too, encouraging their team to reach the finish line.

Inexplicably however, the home side over committed whilst attacking, resulting in a swift counter attack by the Italians. The ball found the quiet Vincenzo Laquinta who was allowed to cut inside and burst into the penalty area before finding substitute Alberto Gilardino who poked the ball past a wrong footed Given and ensured that Ireland had snatched a draw from the jaws of victory.