World Cup - Republic of Ireland 3 Saudi Arabia 0

A second goal from a centre back without a club sent the Republic of Ireland into the second stage of the World Cup finals.

The Irish had never hit two goals in a game before and after a first strike from leading scorer Robbie Keane up popped defender Gary Breen in the 62nd minute to get across his marker and volley in a free kick from the left wing hit high into the penalty area by captain Steve Staunton.

Breen has been released by Coventry City from his contract and is currently without a club but remains a first choice for Irish coach Mick McCarthy.

The Republic of Ireland had the best start they could have hoped for.

A great cross field pass by centre back Staunton allowed Gary Kelly to raid down the right wing and cross for Robbie Keane to volley in on the turn past goalkeeper Al Deayea. The Saudi goalkeeper was setting a new world record with his 171st cap but he had little to do after his side conceded.

Bright work by Damien Duff was a constant threat but as the first half wore on the Saudi side settled and their passing worked neat patterns with Irish goalkeeper Shay Given having to save at Al Sharahni’s feet in the 27th minute.

Al Hassan beat two defenders in front of goal in the 37th minute but then wasted his chance to shoot and Al Hassan and Al Johani both forced Given to punch clear with shots as the Irish midfield gave way.

But Ireland showed the necessary determination and started the second half well with Keane turning and shooting wide in the 49th minute after a run down the left and cut inside by Duff.

After the crucial second goal substitute Niall Quinn hit a 63rd minute volley over with Al Shahrani having a high shot caught easily by Given in the 74th minute.

Duff capped a good display by hitting a shot on the run from the left wing which the hapless Al Deayea spilled into his own net.