Mick McCarthy admitted his relief to have taken a point from Ireland's tricky opening World Cup game against Cameroon after what he has described as one of the most difficult weeks of his managerial career.
Ireland's final preparations for the tournament in Japan and South Korea were overshadowed by events surrounding Roy Keane's dismissal from the squad, and the media frenzy that followed.
In their opening match, against the African Nations Cup champions – fancied by many to do well at this World Cup – McCarthy's side came from behind to earn a draw in the heat of Niigata, courtesy of a sweet second-half strike from Ipswich Town midfielder Matt Holland.
McCarthy said afterwards:"I've had the hardest week possible but coming into the game today was a blessed relief and it's nice to be walking away without being beaten.
"The game was a great advert for football. In the first half we gave up the ball too easily and their two centre forwards were causing us problems.
"But I thought we played far, far better in the second half. I give my hearty congratulations and a pat on the back to all the players."
In fact, the Republic almost snatched victory in the second-half, as Robbie Keane hit a powerful shot against the post from 20 yards out. Their next game is against Germany, who opened their campaign with a comfortable 8-0 victory over a woeful Saudi Arabia.
Ireland's goalscoring hero Matt Holland was extremely happy with his, and the team's performance on the day, and he is now looking ahead to their two remaining group games.
"In the second half we had a lot of chances but but it was a good performance nonetheless and we are pleased with the result," said Holland.
"I scored a couple like that in the qualifying games and it was nice to do it here.
"Hopefully it will stand us in good stead. It was a crucial that we didn't get beat today and let's see what we can do from here."
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