Republic of Ireland Secure Play-Off Spot as Scotland’s Hopes Extinguished
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October 12, 2011 TheFreshOutlook  |
The Republic of Ireland secure Euro 2012 play-off spot as they hold off Armenia in their 2-1 final qualifier stand-off.
Armenia were dealt a series of crushing blows in the early stages of the match, with the first being ‘keeper Roman Berezovsky being dismissed due to a harsh call by referee Aleksanyan Petrosyan for handling the ball outside of his box.
Ireland capitalised on the situation after taking the lead in 43rd minute thanks to an own goal by Valeri Aleksanyan.
After all the early tension, Ireland were suddenly a goal and a man up at half-time.
Richard Dunne scored the first goal from an Irish touch in the 60th minute, making amends for Simon Cox’s goal being disallowed, despite the ball going over the line.
However, three minutes later, Henrikh Mkhitaryan’s low shot managed to beat Given from the edge of the penalty area, which closed the two-goal deficit.
Ireland’s win means they secured their play-off games on November 11 and November 15.
Scotland ended their Euro 2012 qualifying campaign after suffering a 3-1 defeat to Spain in Alicante.
The result means the disappointed Scots finish Group I in third place, with a mere 11 points from eight fixtures.
David Silva broke the hearts of the Scottish nation after just six minutes of play, thanks to a cross from debutant Jordi Alba that was met by Silva and slotted under goalkeeper Allan McGregor from 10 yards out.
Scotland’s captain and rising Manchester United star Darren Fletcher had an opportunity to snatch an early equaliser but stood and watched as his shot ricocheted off of the bar.
However, Spain continued to coolly dictate the game, with their patience paying off as Silva snatched his second on the dead of half-time, further demoralising the away side.
Spanish star Silva then collaborated with Villa to set up for their third goal of the match.
A jaded Scottish side were awarded a consolation penalty in the 66th minute, allowing David Goodwille to put his name on the score sheet. However, although the celebrations were apparent, they appeared to be in vain.
Wales’ 1-0 victory over rock bottom Bulgaria appears to be a lost cause as they end up second from bottom in Group G.
Gareth Bale, who believes there is “room for improvement”, scored on the stroke of the half-time whistle after firing in a low effort with his left foot from the right flank.
Bale nearly claimed his second goal of the match shortly afterwards as the second half opened with his volley crashing against the crossbar. Craig Bellamy, who had been rather quiet up until this stage, watched as his curling effort swung inches past the post.
The victory represents a remarkable turnaround for Wales as they end the group with three victories from the final four games, in addition to celebrating their first back-to-back wins in competitive games for six years.
Elsewhere, Northern Ireland boss Nigel Worthington’s last game in charge resulted in Italy’s emphatic 3-1 victory.
Worthington’s men watched as Antonia Cassano’s stunning volley in the 21st minute caused the Pescara ground to erupt.
Cassano raised the difference to two goals after side footing home a second goal 10 minutes into the second half.
Gareth McAuley added to his side’s dismay with an own goal, to end a dismal Euro Qualifying campaign.
Northern Ireland ended up in fifth position out of a possible six in Pool C, with just two wins, three draws and five defeats in 10 games throughout the competition.
By Josh Williams
[Image courtesy of infomatique]
