Shay Given 6 -Wasn’t called into action but kept his concentration and did well to keep out Anya’s deflected shot. Couldn’t do anything about the goal.
Seamus Coleman 6 - The Everton full-back got forward regularly and was picked out in some excellent positions but his crossing let him down on a couple of occasions. Busier defensively in the second half with the introduction of Anya.
John O’Shea 6 - Tasked with marking Steven Fletcher, the Ireland skipper kept his Sunderland club mate quiet and marshalled the defence. Scotland’s equaliser deflected in off his back, unfortunately.
Marc Wilson 6 - An no-nonsense display from the Stoke man, who was strong in the tackle and tended to play the ball earlier than usual.
Robbie Brady 7 – Brady’s deliveries from set-pieces and wide areas are a huge asset and it was his corner which led to the goal. Growing in confidence defensively too.
Glenn Whelan 6 - As Ireland’s deepest lying midfielder, Whelan played the ‘water-carrier’ role well before being substituted on 67 minutes.
James McCarthy 7 – Made his intentions clear with an early challenge on Scott Brown. Tireless work helped Ireland win the early midfield battle and, without an out-and-out left winger, McCarthy got out to stop Alan Hutton bombing on.
Jeff Hendrick 6 - The Derby County midfielder surprise choice in the starting line-up, but Hendrick constantly harried the opposition and got involved in good link-up play.
Wes Hoolahan 7 – A decent performance from Hoolahan, who was always looking for the ball to make something happen. Made way for Robbie Keane in the second half.
Jon Walters 7 - Handed a role out on the right and made a nuisance of himself while getting forward to support Murphy. Good movement to score his sixth international goal.
Daryl Murphy 6 – Held the ball up well, brought team-mates into play and caused problems but still to score that first senior international goal.
SUBS:
James McClean 6 - Looked to make an immediate impact with his direct running.
Robbie Keane 5 - Clearly fired up when he came on and had a decent strike on goal with his left foot.
Shane Long 5 - Unable to put his stamp on the game as Ireland chased a winner.
Good move.
Best of luck to him
Fair play Aaron, this is exactly what we want to hear. Hopefully he does well whether it be starting or coming off the bench.