Soccer-Ireland disappointed not to beat Czechs, says Staunton

DUBLIN, Oct 11 (Reuters) - Ireland manager Steve Staunton said he was disappointed with a 1-1 draw against Group D leaders Czech Republic in their Euro 2008 qualifier on Wednesday.

"We're very disappointed not to have three points tonight," he told Irish broadcaster RTE. "I think we should have won it."

Staunton faced calls to quit after Ireland's 5-2 defeat by Cyprus on Saturday and, with 14 of his squad out injured, looked to be facing an even tougher challenge against the Czechs.

But a composed defensive performance, including an excellent display from West Bromwich Albion fullback Paul McShane on his debut, secured Ireland's first point of the campaign.

A relieved Staunton praised the performance of his young and relatively inexperienced side in the Group D match.

"Magnificent," he said. "We're building ... we know what we can do. The supporters have to stick with us and I know they will. I'm not giving up the ghost with this."

Ireland, who lost 1-0 to Germany in their opener, are nine points behind the Czechs, who have played four matches, but Staunton added: "There's a long way still to go in this group".

((Reporting by Jodie Ginsberg, editing by Ken Ferris; Reuters Messaging: jodie.ginsberg.reuters.com@reuters.net, tel:+353 1 500 1504, fax:+353 1 500 1551, email: dublin.newsroom@reuters.com))

Keywords: SPORT SOCCER IRELAND COACH