Stephen Kenny will be coming away from Glasgow tonight wondering how his side lost the game against Scotland.
It was a brilliant first half performance from Ireland, who were full value for their lead at the interval.
However, the second half performance lacked a bit of composure at times. While the visitors would defend well, they often struggled to maintain sustained periods of possession. They did look dangerous on the counterattack, including when Troy Parrott spurned a golden opportunity to retake the lead.
In the end, a moment of madness from Alan Browne in the other box was the difference between the sides.
Liam Brady happy with Ireland performance despite loss
Liam Brady has often been hesitant to praise Ireland under Stephen Kenny.
When many were calling for him to be handed a new contract late last year, the former Arsenal star said that the FAI should wait and see how this UEFA Nations League campaign went before making any long-term commitment.
The point total in the group does not make for great reading at this point, although there have been some strong performances along the way. Tonight was another example, with Ireland unfortunate to come out on the losing side.
Brady has often been one to point to results as a sign of progress, but he was very happy with what he saw from Kenny's side tonight. In fact, he admitted that the right decision was made to hand him a new deal ahead of this campaign.
'I had my doubts... but I think what's done has been the right thing, I think this team is growing underneath him' - Liam Brady was enthused by the Irish performance and the directions things are taking despite the loss in Hampden #SCOIRL #COYBIG #NationsLeague pic.twitter.com/DoPb1ORbGF
— RTÉ Soccer (@RTEsoccer) September 24, 2022
We've had some poor games as well, let's not forget that.
I think we're going in the right direction. The first half definitely showed that.
I had my doubts, I've been on the programme wondering whether we should have given him a new contract or not, but I think what's been done has been the right thing.
This team is growing underneath him. We have a Euros to look forward to.
It's a pity that our league position in this is not going to give us more of a chance in the Euros. If we had have had better results, we probably would have been seeded.
I think the team is growing under Kenny and I'm encouraged by what I saw tonight. Let's hope we can finish off this Nations League with a really resounding win on Tuesday night at Lansdowne Road (against Armenia).
Ireland will go into the game against Armenia on Tuesday night needing a draw to guarantee that they will not be relegated from League B in the Nations League.
However, Stephen Kenny will certainly be aiming for the three points to finish the campaign on a high.
SEE ALSO: Ireland Player Ratings As Late Moment Of Madness Costs Kenny's Men In Scotland
