Kerr praises players after draw

Match report

Brian Kerr was disappointed with the result in his side's 2-2 World Cup draw with Israel but the Republic of Ireland boss praised his players' efforts.

Kerr was unhappy with Greek referee Kyros Vassaras who made several controversial decisions including the late dismissal of Andy O'Brien.

"The incident with Andy was ludicrous," claimed the Republic manager.

"We threw the kitchen sink at it in the second half but we didn't get the goal we deserved."

Kerr felt the Israeli penalty late in the first half had been "harsh".

Of O'Brien's red card, Kerr added: "He didn't do anything whatsoever to warrant a yellow card, but we had to play the remainder of the game with 10 men and that didn't help our cause.

"It's a disappointing result but we could do no more. We've got four games to go and if we get 12 points then we can still win the group.

Kerr confirmed Keane is doubtful for the Faroe Island clash in midweek after picking up a shoulder injury in an early incident which the Irish boss believed should have resulted in a penalty.

"I felt it was a penalty and I can't believe the referee ignored that," he added.

Ian Harte criticised the "play-acting" of Israeli goalkeeper Dudu Awat although he acknowledged that the visitiing number one had made some "great saves".

"We have to rebuild now and go the Faroe Islands and get three points. We were looking for six points (over the two matches), it's disappointing but we have to rebuild," added Harte.

Of his goal, Harte said: "It was nice of Brian (Kerr) to give me the opportunity, there were a few injuries.

"It was nice to get a goal but it would have been better if we got the three points."