Player Ratings: Armenia 0-1 Ireland

His shot stopping was sound however he was uncertain from set-pieces, often coming only to flap at the ball.

The captain was never troubled too much by either McGeady or Fahey though nor did he venture forward too often.

Guilty of more than one late challenge. Often done for pace by Keane but had his blushes spared by the Irishman's profligate finishing.

One of his side's livelier performers who showed he had a decent amount of skill but was blunted as much as anything by his side's negative approach.

Was bright early on and had the pace to show O'Shea a clean pair of heels. However was anonymous thereafter.

Often drawn out of position and given the run around.

Struggled against Doyle who was too good in the air in their duels. Not a night to remember for the centre-back.

Never got into the game and was taken off to avoid picking up a second yellow card.

Was overwhelmed by the superior quality of the Irish.

Gave his side good width on the right and when he was left up from corners, held the ball up well despite being outnumbered.

Volleyed over and carried the ball forward well but as with his team-mates, was too hasty in his decision making.

Looked a little uncertain in the beginning but settled into his stride and was a reassuring presence.

A threat from attacking set-pieces and always on hand at the other end to avert any danger.

Ireland's left-back was harshly denied a penalty and he kept plugging away and to his credit, tried to involve McGeady when he could.

A solid display from the Manchester United man who barring one early attack was never troubled.

Commanding as ever, he was strong and decisive and when he couldn't quite make the tackle, did all he could to make life as difficult as possible for his opponent.

Worked hard in front of the back four and won his tackles but was always better when he steered clear of fancy flicks and tricks.

A real mixed bag from the new Portsmouth winger. His set-piece delivery was of variable quality but he worked as hard as always and put some dangerous balls in from open play.

Difficult to see why he was preferred over Gibson on this showing. Was found wanting with his tackling, strength and positional sense.

Was a towering aerial presence and linked up well in tandem with Keane and though he occasionally frustrated with the odd slack touch, he relieved his defence from pressure and linked up brilliantly with Keane.

Much is always expected from Ireland's top scorer however he betrayed his lack of sharpness with two glaring misses. He did however somewhat compensate by playing his part in Fahey's winner.

The Spartak winger enjoyed one bright mazy run in the first half but his tendency to drift infield cost Ireland much needed width on the left hand side.