John Walters came to Ireland’s rescue this evening after his 84th minute goal gave the Republic of Ireland a 1-1 draw in their World Cup qualifier at the Aviva Stadium.
In a game Ireland were expected to win it ended up with a share of the spoils for both teams as Ireland had an end of season dogged display that could have ended up a whole different.
The first half deservedly belonged to Austria and they took the lead after superb finish from Hinteregger who drilled the ball home from an in swinging corner.
Chances were few and far between for Ireland in first half with John Walters coming the closest sequin a short wide from the edge of the box.
The second half began much better for Ireland and the much needed changes proved pivotal with Darryl Murphy coming on for Stephen Ward, whilst Wes Hoolahan coming on for Harry Arter.
With the home crowd behind the men in green and Kevin Long came the closest to leveling the scores when his header was cleared off the line. Ireland gained momentum and got their just rewards in the 84th when John Walters drilled home a low shot after he got on the end of a long ball played from Robbie Brady.
Ireland could have had all three points late on when Shane Duffy looked to have bundled the ball home on the line but he was judged to have fouled the Austrian defender Lainer.
The game then finished 1-1 which leaves Ireland on 12 points with four games remaining.