Republic of Ireland 0-0 Belgium: Red Devil are held as Ferguson misses penalty
Evan Ferguson missed a penalty as the Republic of Ireland passed up the opportunity to hand interim head coach John O’Shea a notable scalp against Belgium.
0' The match is about to start!
4' Highlight from Republic of Ireland vs Belgium
11' Match Event for Republic of Ireland vs Belgium
16' Highlight from Republic of Ireland vs Belgium
28' Penalty Missed! (Evan Ferguson)
43' Match Event for Republic of Ireland vs Belgium
45' Match Event for Republic of Ireland vs Belgium
48' Match Event for Republic of Ireland vs Belgium
51' Match Event for Republic of Ireland vs Belgium
60' Highlight from Republic of Ireland vs Belgium
67' Match Event for Republic of Ireland vs Belgium
75' Match Event for Republic of Ireland vs Belgium
83' Highlight from Republic of Ireland vs Belgium
Brighton striker Ferguson, who reported for international duty without a goal in 20 games for his club, saw his first-half spot-kick saved by Nottingham Forest keeper Matz Sels to ensure the friendly contest at a blustery Aviva Stadium ended 0-0.
Belgium enjoyed the greater share of the possession, but it was Ireland who created the better chances with debutant Sammie Szmodics going to close.
If O'Shea, who will remain in charge for Tuesday's friendly against Switzerland, was left to reflect upon what might have been, he could not have been disappointed with the organisation and endeavour of his players.
Previous Ireland boss Stephen Kenny wanted his young team team to play an expansive brand of football, but their efforts failed to yield results - they won only six of 29 competitive games under his charge.
O'Shea did what Kenny's most recent predecessors had also attempted and as a first
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