Long stunned by last-gasp goal
Republic of Ireland striker Shane Long was devastated by Austria’s late equaliser which cost his side three points in their World Cup qualifier in Dublin.
Two goals from Jon Walters, the first a penalty, had put Giovanni Trapattoni’s side in charge following Martin Harnik’s opener for Austria.
But David Alaba scored the late equaliser which made it 2-2 and sent Austria second in the group to leave the Republic fourth.
Long told Sky Sports 2: “It’s fairly devastating, it would have been a big three points for us.”
But despite the disappointment of dropping two points, Long said he and his team-mates would get over the loss.
“We can’t let it get us down too much,” he added. “We will be disappointed with tonight but we will have to push on and get over it.”
West Brom striker Long saw his back-heeled effort hit the post with his side leading 2-1 and the failure to grab a third goal cost the Republic dear.
Long added: “After we got the second I thought we would go on and get a third and kick on. We had a few chances where we needed a bit of luck.”
Long appreciated his side had tried to shut up shop even if it ended up costing them.
“I suppose it’s a natural thing to do with 20 minutes to go to drop off and try to hold on to your lead,” he said.
“I think we invited a bit too much pressure. It’s a bit of a sucker punch for us.
“When it’s in your hands you need to make sure you hold on to it.”
