1. Ireland lacking in final third at times
IRELAND CERTAINLY HAD no shortage of possession tonight, but there was seldom a sense, until very late on, that they were on the verge of making a breakthrough.
Wes Hoolahan looked lively particularly in the first half, and Jon Walters worked hard as expected.
Nevertheless, what Ireland lacked in the final third for the most part was pace, and the Polish back four were frequently able to push up and feel safe in the knowledge that they were not likely to be caught on the counter-attack.
Critics are now likely to question the role of Robbie Keane in particular after another ineffectual outing, while the failure to introduce the conspicuously speedy and physical Shane Long until late on is another call that — with the benefit of hindsight — looks dubious at best.
2. Boys in Green their own worst enemies for opening goal
One of most disappointing aspects of tonight’s performance from Martin O’Neill’s perspective will be the poor first goal Ireland conceded.
Glenn Whelan missed a header before Robbie Brady and Marc Wilson had chances to clear the ball but failed to do so.
Poland consequently took full advantage, as Slawomir Peszko finished emphatically past Shay Given.
There were doubts, in particular, about Brady’s selection at full-back, and while he showed glimpses of promise going forward, he certainly could have done better for the goal.
3. O’Neill’s men still alive… Just
Were it not for Shane Long’s last-minute intervention tonight, Ireland would surely be staring down a premature exit from Euro 2016.
And while the importance of a win was emphasised before tonight’s game, under the circumstances, a draw feels like a positive result.
Moreover, both managers agreed after the match that a point was the least Ireland deserved from the game.
After a subdued first half compounded by the concession of a sloppy goal, the Boys in Green intensified the pressure in the second period, and ultimately their efforts yielded a reward.
Nonetheless, another draw means Ireland’s upcoming Scotland encounter at home is more crucial than ever, while a point at the very least will surely be required in the return fixture against Poland.
In general however, although the performances have lacked polish at times, if Ireland can continue to show the type of courage and commitment that has seen them manage three vital late goals in the group so far, they will remain in with a decent shout of progressing.
