Sean Maguire struggled to spark Ireland’s attack in Gibraltar - but Mick McCarthy insists he should not shoulder the blame.
The Preston North End striker was making his first competitive start but was replaced by Harry Arter during the second-half.
Nothing fell Maguire’s way in an edgy game and his search for a first Ireland goal continues.
McCarthy was frustrated with the lack of crosses into the Gibraltar box and hooked Matt Doherty after mixed results when experimenting with him wide on the right.
“(Maguire) didn’t really get any chances,” said the Ireland boss. “You really need balls slid up the side of him and I thought they marked him well.
“It’s not easy trying to control the ball (on an artificial pitch) and it was a tough night for him.”
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McCarthy is mulling over whether to start the former Cork City striker against Georgia tomorrow, or hand Luton Town’s James Collins a debut.
Millwall striker Aiden O’Brien will also come into contention having been drafted in last week as cover for crocked Shane Long.
In a game where few players covered themselves in glory, David McGoldrick stood out while McCarthy praised midfielders Conor Hourihane and goal scorer Jeff Hendrick.
“Conor Hourihane is a good footballer,” said the former Ipswich boss. “I’ve always admired him. When he was at Barnsley, I was looking to sign him but I’d no chance.
“I think he’s got a lot to offer. His free kicks and corners were terrific - he’s got good delivery.”
McCarthy continued: “David McGoldrick I thought was very, very good. And I know all the others scraped away like I expected.
“Everybody has wanted to talk about the past (in the build up to the Gibraltar game). But the lads have been brilliant so I’m happy. We’ve got three points.”
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