Republic Of Ireland Can Progress To Euro 2012 In Style
Ireland have ensured that the pressure has largely been taken off for this second leg, not only do they carry a four goal advantage into this second leg from an away first leg but they also face an Estonia side with three of their starters from the game in Tallinn. Republic Of Ireland have not qualified for a European Championships since 1988 (their only appearance at the finals) and we could see a cautious start to the game with Ireland keen to avoid giving up any of their four goal advantage.
Ireland full back Stephen Kelly will miss this game through injury, the Fulham defender has picked up a groin injury and will be replaced by John O'Shea, who wasn't yet fit for the first leg but has now recovered from his hamstring problem. Damien Duff, who picked up a slight rib injury in the first leg, is deemed to be fit for the second leg after training on Monday. Kevin Doyle, who missed the first leg through suspension, is back in contention but not guaranteed to start now that Ireland have scored four goals already. Leon Best has returned to Newcastle after being assessed by Irish medical staff.
Estonia will be without Andrei Stepanovs and skipper Raio Piiroja who were both sent off in the first leg, that leaves them light in central defence, whilst also suspended for this tie will be goalkeeper Sergei Pareinko, his yellow card in Tallinn was one too many during Estonia's qualifying campaign.
Ireland have been well backed since their demolition job in the first leg and although it is easy to see why there should be a bit of caution in backing a side who would take a draw now if it was offered to them. Ireland are likely to start very cautiously and the fact that Estonia have to attack from the first minute should play into Ireland's hands with Trapattoni's men able to hit Estonia on the counter attack. Ireland will find things tougher against all eleven men but Ireland should have enough to win this game despite only needing to avoid defeat by more than three goals to progress.