Heimir must get campaign off its knees

Portugal too strong but Ireland can shine against Armenia

- BY JOHN O'DOWD

AFTER the terribly disappointing nature of the opening two results and performances, the World Cup qualifying campaign already looks doomed for Ireland.

Giving both Hungary and Armenia a two-goal head start last month, and ending up with one point out of six, has the boys in green facing a mountain to climb in Group F.

Miracles are needed to get back in contention and, when you have to head to the Stadium of Light in Lisbon to reignite your prospects, you know you are in big trouble.

Heimir Hallgrimsson is, most certainly, feeling the heat, and damage limitation tonight is probably the only objective that is potentially achievable.

Of course, Ireland have pulled off surprise results in their history, and even a draw would register on the seismic scale but, let's face reality, that is not going to happen either.

Portugal are without Joao Neves, but all their other big names are available. With a 100 per cent winning record to maintain, they will be focused.

The recall of Seamus Coleman and John Egan, among others, highlights that the Ireland manager feels that he is lacking leaders, and there will surely be an element of parking the bus tonight.