Post by Taxigirl on Feb 19, 2004 11:13:10 GMT
Ireland captain Kenny Cunningham paid tribute to his side's defensive display after they held Brazil to a goalless draw at Lansdowne Road.
"We faced the world champions and we were up for it," he said. "They've got some outstanding individual players.
"Both sides had some good opportunities but we've got to be pleased with the performance.
"As defenders it's great to keep a clean sheet but everyone played their part - everyone can take credit."
Man-of-the-match Clinton Morrison lamented a first-half opportunity when he rushed his shot instead of taking an extra touch.
"It sat up nicely and I thought I could hit the target but I probably should have taken it on."
Irish manager Brian Kerr was "delighted" with his team's display.
"We had to work very hard to stay with them but we had a good shape and good discipline and made a few decent chances," said Kerr.
"Robbie Keane had the best chance after that great move down the right and Clinton's ball in.
"They had one or two chances as well and Ronaldo had a tremendous opportunity in the second half but Kenny Cunningham just did enough with the shoulder to put him off.
"Andy O'Brien also made a brilliant saving tackle in injury-time.
"A draw was a fair result but we could have won it."
Brazilian boss Carlos Parreira felt that the early departure of Arsenal star Gilberto Silva because of an ankle injury had affected his team in the first half.
"Our midfield was a little disorganised but we settled down in the second half and played better," said Parreira.
"We are only happy when we win games but as training preparation it was all right, what we expected.
"The game was balanced. I believe 0-0 was a fair result."
Parreira said that he believed that Gilberto would be ruled out of this weekend's Premiership clash against Chelsea.
"I think he will miss the next game for Arsenal but will be all right for the following week."