Yes but...

A spirited performance by a severely-depleted Ireland rescued Steve Staunton last night as they drew 1-1 with the Czech Republic. However the fact that Staunton can still be in a job means that nothing has been learned from Saipan. Looking objectively, a home game against a team such as the Czechs should be a win for Ireland; otherwise there is no point in turning up for international game. That we are now grateful for a draw pulled out in adversarial circumstances only emphasises how far we have fallen. Staunton still has to go; he is out of his depth and as long as he remains in his job - and John Delaney in his - Irish football will remain mired in the dark ages.