Cyprus Under-21 0 Republic of Ireland Under-21 0:A new-look Republic of Ireland Under-21 side fought out a goalless draw against Cyprus in Larnaca this afternoon.

Manager Noel King blooded a handful of new faces at the GSZ Stadium in preparation for the 2013 Uefa Under-21 Championship qualifiers which begin later this year.

The visitors had the better of the early play, Conor Clifford and James Collins looking dangerous and Richie Towell going close from 30 yards.

The hosts could have taken the lead after 55 minutes when Charalambos Dimosthenous won a penalty but substitute goalkeeper Ian McLoughlin, on for Richie Branagan, saved the spot-kick.

Debutant Conor Doyle caught the eye after his half-time introduction but the game finished goalless.

King said: “We probably had the lion’s share of the possession and we created a few half-chances going for a winner but it never came. It was our second clean sheet on the trot and you will always take that, particularly in such warm conditions.

“Both goalkeepers kept clean sheets and Ian McLoughlin was obviously pleased to save a penalty that was harsh to say the least and the defence did well as a unit. I’ve learned a lot and if we can learn this much from every game I’d be very happy.”

Derby’s Texas-born striker Doyle is also eligible for the USA and King admitted his long-term future was yet to be decided.

“I’ve discussed the issue with him and will not be putting pressure on,” said King.

“There’ll be no decision on my side in the short term. I said it was great to see him and that I’d be making no promises to any player. He appreciated that and it is now a matter of taking the time to get the right decision for him and for us.”