The Republic of Ireland rounded off the international break and a long season with a victory, as they beat Gibraltar 2-0 at the Aviva Stadium last night. However, despite their unconvincing display Ireland sit top of their Euro 2020 qualification Group D on 10 points, following last Friday’s 1-1 draw away to Denmark. He writes: “People are nostalgic for the gripping all-on-the-day thrill of the old knockout. You put six months into preparing for one game, and then after the first round half the counties in Ireland are out. All the confidence that might flow from a run just evaporates.” This follows yesterday’s draw for round two of the qualifiers, with Monaghan against Armagh and Mayo versus Down the pick of the ties.

Source: The Irish Times June 11, 2019 06:56 UTC