Irish boss Brian Kerr tries to rally his players in Saturday's game

Republic of Ireland boss Brian Kerr tried to put on a brave face after his team's 1-1 draw with Russia but it didn't mask the Dubliner's disappointment.

Kerr's charges almost certainly need to beat Switzerland on 11 October to maintain their hopes of qualifying for Euro 2004 although a draw might be enough to earn a play-off if other results go their way.

"It wasn't a very good result for us," acknowledged the Irish boss.

"We knew before the match that we needed to win the game but we also knew that we were probably going to have to win in Switzerland to be in with a chance.

"But while we didn't play too well today, I think we're capable of playing a lot better and that we can win in Switzerland".

Kerr said that his players were disappointed with their own efforts.

Russia knew that a draw would put them in a very strong position Brian Kerr

"Everyone is a bit down but it's not the end of it yet.

"There was no lack of effort but they wouldn't be happy themselves with their performances".

The Republic manager felt his team had lacked rhythm.

"We weren't fluent and it probably didn't help that we had to make the change so early with John O'Shea having to come off.

"The Russians have a deep pool of experienced players to pick from and they knew that a draw would put them in a very strong position and they were quite happy to play for it".

Kerr said the loss of suspended captain Kenny Cunningham for the game in Switzerland would be a blow but pointed out that he has reasonable cover at centre-half.

That just about ends Ireland's hopes of qualifying From Allister Webb Have your say on 606

The Irish boss will travel to Wednesday's crucial game between Russia and Switzerland in Moscow but wouldn't be drawn on his preferred result.

"I've studied the permutations and I think I know what result I'd like from that match but I'd prefer not to say."

Ireland meet Turkey in a friendly at Lansdowne Road on Tuesday night, which will give Kerr the chance to experiment.

John O'Shea seems certain to miss the game through injury while Shay Given may be rested after sustaining knocks to his knee and neck in Saturday's match.