Point in Georgia keeps Republic on track but race far from over
Martin O'Neill's side fail to shine in Tbilisi as Serbia pull away at top
The Republic held on to their unbeaten record in World Cup qualifying but their 1-1 draw in Georgia is a setback to finishing Group D winners.
The draw keeps Martin O’Neill’s side in second spot but are now two points adrift of Serbia who beat Moldovo 3-0.
The two meet in an Aviva Stadium showdown on Tuesday.
The Republic took the lead last night in Tbilisi after just three minutes through Shane Duffy but the home side equalised just before half-time with a fine Valeri Qazaishvili strike.
Georgia were dominant in possession for large chunks of the match with the Republic reduced to counter attacks – James McClean coming close on a couple of occasions.
And near the end Aiden McGeady wasted a glorious opportunity to secure all three points.
West Brom winger McClean said it was “a disappointing night”
He told Sky Sports Football: “Just not good enough on the night to be honest.
“All around we weren't good enough: our passing, our energy, our defending, our finishing.
“They're a lot better than what people think when you look at their results through the group.
“Saying that I believe we're better, but tonight we didn't show that - all over the pitch they were better, passed the ball better.
“We'll have better nights; hopefully one of those will be on Tuesday.
“We know what we need to do Tuesday night, it's as simple as that.
If that goes to plan then tonight doesn't matter but right now we're disappointed and we're a bit angry at ourselves.'