Keane delights Kerr

Robbie Keane was on target again for the Republic of Ireland as they beat Croatia 1-0 in a friendly in Dublin.

It was the 24th goal of the Tottenham striker's international career. "It's always nice to score goals and it's nice to score the winner," Keane said.

"But the result is what's important, even though I didn't think we played well."

However, Ireland manager Brian Kerr said he was pleased with his side's performance.

"Robbie's running and movement in the first half was excellent," he said. "You can see how important he is to us."

Kerr is also satisfied he now has the right players to call upon should there be trouble ahead as Ireland try to qualify for the World Cup finals.

Ireland's next Group Four game is away to Israel in March.