Ireland given plenty of food for thought

Players' reaction: First defeat at Lansdowne Road and first loss in a friendly under Brian Kerr but not something to dwell on considering what lies ahead.

When Kerr broke bread with Marcello Lippi a couple of months back at a Fifa conference he grasped what turned out to be an ideal opportunity to test his players against a technically gifted team similar to what Ireland will face at Lansdowne Road in three weeks' time.

Italy may embrace a different footballing philosophy to France but they both have players to make us Irish look ordinary.

The opening goal from Andrea Pirlo came courtesy of a raft of defensive errors, while the second from Alberto Gilardino showed how one technically excellent pass can shred the cover in an instant.

"They were class," admitted Richard Dunne.

"Sometimes you've just got to hold your hands up and say they were good. They've got to be one of the favourites to win the World Cup. I mean some of their movement and play tonight was outstanding. When the crowd are applauding it themselves you know you are seeing something good.

"We know how high the level France will be at. Come that game I'm sure players will be a lot fitter and sharper. Also, it will be a different atmosphere and different game on the night."

Dunne probably suffered the most as he left last season's premiership form back in Manchester and was duly replaced by Andy O'Brien at the break. It didn't bother him, though, having been out injured for four months.

"I haven't played a proper match since the end of April so it was just important for me to get a run out really. Get myself back in contention for Saturday, for the club."

Also, the lone forward, a lá Shelbourne in Europe, may sometimes be a necessary Irish tactic but with the two Keanes returning, Clinton Morrison can expect a partner on September 7th. It also means Kevin Kilbane will not be the primary aerial target from long balls.

"I think we've got to play to our own strengths," continued Dunne.

"Four-four-two, as we showed in the second-half, is our strongest formation and no matter who the opposition is I think that is the way forward for us."

The night also produced some good old Irish stubbornness as Andy Reid profited from a Cristian Zaccardo error, even the technically minded slip up, to drill home some hope within a minute of the second Italian goal.

"We held our own," said Reid. "I don't think that will damage confidence. Everyone is looking forward to the next game. It's such a big game everyone will be buzzing when it comes around. Disappointed that we didn't get the win but we gave a good account of ourselves."

Man of the match Shay Given is looking forward to the challenge ahead.

" We know what to expect from France and obviously with their three players coming back in it adds quality to the team but it's a massive game and we will have two players back in (the two Keanes) ourselves hopefully. We can't wait for it. We will give them a good game, don't worry about that."