Trapattoni sets his sights high

MAINZ // Giovanni Trapattoni set his sights on South Africa 2010 after his side launched their World Cup qualifying campaign with a victory over Georgia. Trapattoni's men ran out 2-1 winners at the Bruchweg Stadium in Mainz to make the most of FIFA's decision to switch the game to a neutral venue because of the political situation in Georgia. The Italian had few doubts about his target. He said: "We are not sure, but we are convinced we can go and qualify. We now have high spirits. The players were happy, because they now believe." Kevin Doyle's sixth international goal gave Ireland a 13th-minute lead, then goalkeeper Giorgi Loria spilled Glenn Whelan's 70th-minute effort into his own net.

Levan Kenia pulled one back for the Georgians deep into injury time, but it was too late. * PA Sport