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Cech and Hunt greet one another at the Aviva tonight. ©INPHO/Donall Farmer
Road to Euro 2012

Five things we learned at Lansdowne Road last night

It may not have been a classic international encounter, but there are lessons to take from the draw with the Czech Republic.

1. Trap is as stubborn as ever

Despite the huge anticipation surrounding the possible introductions of young players James McCarthy, Seamus Coleman, Shane Duffy and, especially, James McClean, the Ireland boss chose to bring on Stephen Hunt, Paul Green, Simon Cox and Jon Walters ahead of them.

Although McClean was given a short cameo, Trap clearly wasn’t lying when he spoke of the aforementioned players being for the future i.e. after the Euros.

2. Irish fans desperately want a new poster boy

The biggest cheer of the night was not awarded to Simon Cox’s 85-minute equaliser, but instead went to everyone’s new favourite player James McClean when he entered the fray late in the second half.  He wasn’t given the chance to even attempt to live up to all the hype but is certainly the flavour of the month as the Irish faithful cheered on his every touch.

3. We can’t do without Richard Dunne

Darren O’Dea had a solid game alongside Sean St Ledger and the pair were rarely troubled but, as the Baros goal showed, a limited squad like Ireland’s can’t afford to be without a player as influential and commanding as Richard Dunne. The Aston Villa centre half is expected to return to action by April so let’s hope there are no setbacks along the way.

Is anyone else dreaming of him putting in performances like the one in Moscow last year in Poland this summer?

4. It is going to be a nerve-wracking summer

Ireland allowed the Czechs plenty of possession, they finished with 59.9% to our 40.1%, and against Italy and Spain at Euro 2012 are likely to look to soak up pressure with the aim of nicking a goal or two from set-pieces. Trap’s record speaks for itself, his side are now unbeaten in 12 games, but how we are going to keep Silva, Iniesta, Xavi, Fabregas and Soldado out for 90 minutes, God only knows.

5. Petr Cech has forgiven Stephen Hunt

The Czech goalkeeper stills wears the scars, and the head protection, of an collision with the Wolves winger six years ago at the Madejski Stadium (see below). It was all smiles at the Aviva tonight however, as both players had a quick chat before kick-off.

YouTube credit:

Ireland v Czech Republic: Player ratings

As it happened: Republic of Ireland v Czech Republic

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