Robbie Keane applauds Republic fans after the game

Captain Robbie Keane was happy with the Republic of Ireland's performance in the 1-1 draw with Norway, especially in the first half of the match in Oslo.

"We kept the ball really well in the first half, played the ball about well and deservedly went in a goal in front.

"Good football became impossible in the second half because of the state of the pitch and the heavy rain completely spoiled the game," said Keane.

"We can take plenty of positives into our first qualifier against Georgia."

Defender Richard Dunne, who was named man-of-the-match, agreed that the Irish played well in the first half.

"We created some good chances in the first period but the conditions ruined the game in the second half as there was no fluidity to the play and it became a lottery.

"Things are looking good for our first World Cup qualifier in Georgia and I am confident that we can do well."

Republic manager Giovanni Trapattoni was happy with the physical condition of his players given that their domestic league season has just begun.

"Norway were a difficult side to play against and they deserved an equaliser but overall I am happy," he stated after the game.