Robbie Keane shoots Ireland into an early lead More match photos

An injury-time own goal salvaged the Republic of Ireland's Euro 2004 prospects after a tense afternoon against Albania at Lansdowne Road.

Adrian Aliaj Og was the unlucky player who directed Gary Doherty's low effort into his own net in the 93rd minute.

The game had seemed destined for a draw which would have been a serious setback for the Irish team's hopes of reaching the European finals in Portugal.

But they got the break they so desperately needed to bag three priceless points.

The victory lifts Brian Kerr's side above the Albanians in Group 10 and gives them the chance to put some pressure on Switzerland and Russia.

An Irish win looked on the cards when Robbie Keane cracked the Albanian defence within six minutes of the start.

Tottenham striker Keane showed his class when he turned and steered the ball past Albanian goalkeeper Foto Strakosha to record his 15th international goal.

But Kerr's men, playing their first competitive match at Lansdowne Road under the new boss, got caught at the back just two minutes later.

Dramatic conclusion

Altin Rraklli crossed from the right and Ervin Skela had time and space to guide the ball beyond Shay Given.

It looked like being a frustrating second half for Ireland before that dramatic conclusion.

They came close when Damien Duff saw a late effort go just inches wide of the far post.

Geri Cipi also made a superb blocking challenge when Keane looked poised to strike again late in the game.

Ireland played the last nine minutes with just 10 men as they had used all their permitted substitutes Duff went off with a hamstring injury.

The Blackburn star must be a big doubt for the Republic's game at home to Georgia on Wednesday night.

Republic of Ireland: Given, Carr, Cunningham, Breen, O'Shea, Holland, Kinsella, Kilbane, Duff, Connolly, Keane.
Subs: Harte, Dunne, Carsley, Reid, Colgan, Healy, Doherty.

Albania: Strakosha, Cipi, Elvin Beqiri, Aliaj, Klodian Duro, Lala, Hasi, Skela, Murati, Tare, Rraklli.
Subs: Dabulla, Fakaj, Bellai, Myrtaj, Beqaj, Cana, Bogdani.

Referee: Tomaz Mikulski (Poland)