Stephen Kenny and Ireland are still searching for their first win as they were beaten 3-2 by Serbia this evening.
In a game that could’ve given the nation a smile it seems that the result summed up the current mood of the country as the boys in green left Belgrade frustrated and disappointed.
Although there was a much improved performance from Kenny’s men it seems that this qualifying campaign will be a long and arduous adventure with chances of reaching the finals already looking slim.
Ireland who headed into the game on the back of a disappointing Euro 2020 championships play off loss were given early hope as Alan Browne gave them a 1-0 lead.
However despite looking good for 30 minutes the game started to turn on its head and the Serbs got a much deserved equaliser through Vlahovic just before the break.
Ireland who started the second half on the front foot were ultimately undone by Alexander Mitrovic as the substitute scored a superb second with a delightful chip over a stranded Travers in the Ireland goal.
Mitrovic then all but wrapped up the game with a powerful header which Travers could do nothing about.
Despite the daunting scoreline Ireland did manage to pull one back after Shane Long capitalised on a poor header back to Serbia goalkeeper before he laid it off to James Collins who slotted home.
Ireland who now have an uphill task to make any significant difference to the group, will face Luxembourg on Saturday in what could potentially be a must win game to gain some much needed confidence and keep themselves in contention.
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