The Republic of Ireland cruised into a 3-0 lead to win their first Carling cup game against Wales. The first half ended 0-0 with efforts on goal at a premium. The Republic of Ireland came out in stunning form in the second half and started to pepper Wayne Hennessys goal. Darron Gibson who was given the nod ahead of Green opened the scoring with a rifled a shot from outside the area on the hour mark for his first goal for Ireland.
Damien Duff made it 2-0 when Walters cut back rom the byline for Duff to sweep the ball home from 10 yards in the 66th minute. The game was getting sloppy with misplaced passes from both side. Keith Fahey who came on as a sub made it 3-0 with a stunning free kick for his 2nd goal in a green shirt. Walters was fouled by Collins 25 yards from goal. Fahey stepped up to drive the ball pat Hennessy and confine Gary Speed to an opening defeat as Wales boss.