Robbie sounds rallying cry

Last updated : 11 October 2004 By Dave Mervyn

Keane equalled Niall Quinn's goal record of 21 last month with a 55th minute penalty against Cyprus, and looks almost certain to hit his twenty-second against the Faroe Islands in Dublin.

The 24-year-old, mindful of the chance to head into 2005 as group leaders with Switzerland idle until March, said: "Full credit to the lads because we worked our socks off and deserved the point. It was a great team performance.

"We were happy with the draw, and although there is still a long way to go, it is vital we get the three points on Wednesday because the draw in Paris will mean nothing if we don't beat the Faroes."

Brian Kerr's side could have been toasting a famous victory against the French, had John O'Shea's snapshot on 69 minutes not edged just wide of Fabien Barthez's right post, with the Marseille stopper beaten.

A great right-wing free kick from substitute Andy Reid played an unmarked O'Shea in, and the Manchester United defender knows he should have done better.

"I thought I would go to the far post for once because myself and Kevin Kilbane had previously been trying to get across the keeper (Barthez)."