Republic stars help pick new boss

The afternoon before this clash of the also-rans, Delaney consulted a fiveman delegation from acting boss Don Givens' squad on the type of man required to succeed Steve Staunton. The priority was a manager well versed in preparing teams for the lengthy slog of qualification.

It was fitting that Jason Koumas's late penalty should expose Ireland's Achilles heel. They have conceded late goals against Slovakia, Wales and Cyprus that have combined to ruin their Euro 2008 hopes.

Everton midfielder Lee Carsley was one of those consulted by Delaney. He said: "I think he wanted our views on different managers we have worked with. It's imperative we get the right one. Personally, I believe we should have a manager who has got international experience.

"Playing international and club football are totally different. I think it would help if they have that on their CV. Three names have featured a lot. Terry Venables, Gerard Houllier and Paul Jewell. I've never worked with any one of them but their track records speak for themselves.'

Robbie Keane has grown into the skipper's role throughout this campaign.

After Koumas's superb header gave Wales the lead, Keane was sent racing clean through by Kevin Doyle. The provider then turned scorer. However, Paul McShane's error in manhandling David Cotterill allowed Koumas to even it up from the spot.

As for Wales, John Toshack does not have too many options, other than blooding youngsters and hoping for the best. Several, like young full backs Neal Eardley and Chris Gunter, did themselves proud.

But for Koumas, suspended for this week's trip to Germany, the Irish would have sauntered home. 'Jason is very important as a playmaker for us, particularly since Ryan Giggs left," said Wales boss John Toshack, "You always feel that he's the one in games that are tight who can unlock the door. He is key for that."

WALES (4-4-1-1): Hennessey; Gunter, Gabbidon, Collins, Eardley (Cotterill 81min); Ledley, Robinson (Edwards 37), Fletcher, Davies; Koumas; Eastwood (Easter 59). Subs (not used): Price, Crofts, Morgan, Evans. Booked: Koumas.

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND(4-4-2): Given; Kilbane, O'Shea, McShane, Finnan; McGeady, Carsley, Reid (Potter 87), Miller (Hunt 59); Doyle, Keane. Subs (not used): Stokes, D Murphy, J Murphy, Bruce, O'Dae. Booked: O'Shea.

Referee: O Oriekhov (Ukraine).