Republic of Ireland boss Mick McCarthy admitted he was disappointed to see his team surrender a 2-1 lead so late on in their friendly with Croatia at Lansdowne Road but was pleased with the performance of individual players. The visitors scored their two goals in the final ten minutes of the game, with their second coming courtesy of a thundering spot-kick after John O'Shea handled in the penalty area, but the Irish held on to extend their unbeaten run to 13 matches.
"It's tinged with disappointment at the end because we've not won, we should have won that game. If there's any blame it should be at me because I diluted the side," admitted the Irish manager, who made nine substitutes during the match.
However, he was full of praise for the efforts made by striking partners Robbie Keane and Damien Duff. "I wouldn't want to play against those two lads at the moment," he said. "I think we are in very healthy shape. If we can get players back we will be better for it. Injuries permitting, I know the 11 players who will face Holland. We'll all just have to wait and see," he added.
For Crystal Palace striker Clinton Morrison, it was a dream debut thanks to his first Irish goal. "I don't miss from there but Jason did all the hard work, the ball just came to me. But it was a great moment. Mick McCarthy just told me to go out enjoy myself and I did. I was a bit nervous but when I came on I wanted to make a quick impact. I'm just pleased to get on the pitch and play with such great players. I enjoyed myself and I learned a lot, I'm going to take a lot back to Palace," he said.
Filed by Amanda Fennelly
