The Republic of Ireland continued their bright start in Group 8 of 2010 World Cup Qualifying, defeating a stubborn Cyprus side in front of a healthy crowd at Croke Park. Robbie Keane gave Trap's men a dream start after just 5 minutes, Damien Duff supplying a perfect cross to the unmarked Keane at the back post after a fantastic run from the Newcastle man for Keane's 35th goal for Ireland. Giovanni Trapattoni had to make a few changes from the first two matches, as Steve Finnan and Steven Reid were both out with injuries. John O'Shea moved from centre back to right back, with Paul McShane replacing him in the middle, and Glenn Whelan was partnered with Manchester United youngster Darron Gibson, who earned just his 3rd cap at 20 years of age. After the goal, the game lost much of its excitement, with each side flashing occasional signs of attacking. McShane again proved he still has a lot of work to do to be able to start at the international level, and was completely out of his depth; if not for the superb performance of Richie Dunne, Ireland may well have conceded a few due to McShane's errors. Trap will probably want to stick with O'Shea and Dunne in the middle, and perhaps Kevin Foley or Alex Bruce will be used if Finnan is unable to play again at some point in this campaign. Gibson put in a hard shift and at times showed a spark, but for the most part he did not have an effect on the game; Andy Reid will be wondering what he has to do to get in the squad, and Liam Miller and Keith Andrews may be options now that Steven Reid's absence has been confirmed for perhaps the rest of the campaign. Whelan struggled without Reid and also really failed to make an impact on the proceedings. Aiden McGeady showed flashes of brilliance on the wing, and at times led the Irish in promising attacks, but his signs of immaturity were shown as he was unable to discern when to cross, often trying to take every defender on. He did have a spectacular effort in the second half though and looks to be progressing. Duff created the only goal and played well for the most part, with creative runs and passes all night. Surely if he stays healthy Stephen Hunt will struggle for playing time. Keane played with as much hustle and fervor as ever, but was largely denied the service due to the subpar central midfield performance. Doyle worked his socks off and was probably the best player on the field for Ireland. He was taken off in the 90th minute, Caleb Folan earning his first international cap for the Irish, although he was only on the field for about 50 or so seconds. No other substitutes were used, and Andy Reid has still yet to play a competitive match under Trap’s reign. In conclusion, the match may have been a bit tighter than most Irish fans were hoping for, and perhaps somewhat lackluster in terms of attacking, but the necessary three points at home were gained and Ireland sit 2nd after 3 matches with 7 points; Italy tops the table with 10, but they have played a match more. Trapattoni will no doubt be tinkering with the squad for the rest of the campaign, but for now Irish fans should enjoy the good position we’re in and focus on the positives.

- Andrew McCarten