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Football

18th Jun 2016

Irish fans lament the distinct lack of Jon Walters in first half against Belgium

Lonely Long

Darragh Murphy

Jon Walters’ heroic 65 minutes against Sweden were one of his best yet in an Ireland jersey.

And his zero minutes against Belgium were a significant factor in the Republic of Ireland’s first-half struggles against a side whose defensive frailties were exploited by a relatively unspectacular Italian attack, at least on paper, on Monday night.

Walters was ruled out of Ireland’s second Euro 2016 group tie with a recurrence of his Achilles injury and, my God, his absence was telling.

Jonathan Walters injured 13/6/2016

Darren Randolph’s kickouts repeatedly resulted in immediate Belgium attacks due to the fact that Ireland lacked the Stoke forward’s power in the air and Shane Long had no outlet or support when he so happened win the ball.

Walters may not have the technical ability of an Andres Iniesta or the skill to produce moments of unfathomable brilliance like Cristiano Ronaldo but, Jesus, we’re missing him in Bordeaux.

SNAPCHAT