Darren Randolph: Starting his first game for the Republic, the West Ham United ’keeper had no chance with Poland’s two goals. Kept the Irish in the game with a brilliant save to deny Grosicki. 7
Séamus Coleman: Due to Poland’s dominance in midfield, only managed one of his trademark runs in the first half. Defended stoutly in the second half, particularly denying Lewandowski a second goal. 6
Robbie Brady: Moved back to the left back slot in Stephen Ward’s absence. Probably could have been more productive in possession at times although he put some dangerous free-kicks into the danger zone. 5
John O’Shea: The idea of keeping Lewandowski scoreless over two matches proved too much to ask. Poland attacked wave after wave from different angles and was too much for any defence to contain. Sent off in stoppage time for a second yellow card offence and ruled out of the first leg of next month’s play-off. 6
Richard Keogh: The best chance of the game fell to the Derby County man but his 81st minute header was saved by Fabianski. Generally defended well but did struggle with the versatility of the Polish attack. 6
Glenn Whelan: Had trouble with Poland’s central midfield pair of Maczynski and Krychowiak but did break up a few Polish attacks. Made way for Aiden McGeady as the Irish chased a second goal. 5
James McCarthy: Had his hands full with Krychowiak in the middle of the park but still had good spells. Incredible engine and looks better suited to Whelan’s role. 6
Jeff Hendrick: Looked out of his depth for periods last night. Too many heavy touches left Ireland exposed on the counter-attack. Kept driving forward with little end product. 5
Jonathan Walters: Slotted home Ireland’s first half penalty but seemed to lack the energy levels of the Germany game. Won his fair share of aerial duels but was heavily outnumbered. 5
Shane Long: Restored to the starting line-up after his sensational goal against Germany, the Tipperary native took a battering from the Polish defence. Won Ireland’s first half penalty but was forced out of the game in the early stages of the second half. 6
James McClean: Never really happened for the Derry man. Didn’t get any change out of right back Piszczek all night and some of his passes went astray. Replaced by Hoolahan in the final quarter. 5
SUBSTITUTES
Robbie Keane: In for Long after 54 minutes, the veteran striker almost got on the end of one cross, but didn’t pose much of a threat. 5
Aiden McGeady: Set up Richard Keogh for a headed chance. This was his only highlight. 5
Wes Hoolahan: Came in for James McClean and wasn’t able to weave his magic. 5
