BBC SPORT | WORLD CUP | Rep of Ireland

Republic of Ireland captain Steve Staunton won his 100th cap in the thrilling 1-1 draw with Germany on Wednesday but said he would not be celebrating until the World Cup was over.

Robbie Keane scored an injury-time goal in Ibaraki to give Ireland an excellent chance of progressing to the second round.

Ireland snatch priceless point

Before the game Staunton was presented with a watch by his team-mates to mark his 100th cap.

Midfielder Stephen Reid, at 20 the youngest in the Ireland squad, made a speech.

After the game Staunton said: "It's been a great day and the lads have been fantastic.

"I was taken aback with the present they gave me after the pre-match meal.

Republic of Ireland manager Mick McCarthy
McCarthy was impressed with Staunton

"I was gobsmacked and they wanted a speech, but I couldn't give them anything, bar 'let's go and beat the Germans'.

But he added: "I'll leave any celebrating until I get back to Dublin."

Niall Quinn, the squad's oldest player at 35, said the gesture "epitomized the whole spirit of the squad".

Coach Mick McCarthy was impressed by the performance of central defensive duo Staunton and Gary Breen.

The pair were criticised for their performance in the first-half of the opening match against Cameroon.

"I was critical of the two at the back on Saturday in the first half but in the second they nailed it down and against Germany they were terrific," McCarthy said.

Lawrenson's verdict on Ireland

"It was their idea, they went and presented him with a beautiful watch.

"It's a lovely touch and it showed the feeling they have for one another."



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