Moldova 1-3 Republic of Ireland: James McClean double seals three points in Chisinau

The West Brom winger was on target twice in the second half to fire Martin O'Neill's side back in front after Shane Long's opener was cancelled out

James McClean scored twice to help the Republic of Ireland survive a scare in their World Cup qualifier against Moldova in Chisinau.

The West Brom winger's second-half double fired his country back into the lead after Shane Long's second-minute opener was cancelled out by Igor Bugaev on the stroke of half-time.

Long pounced on to a pinpoint through ball from Wes Hoolahan in the early stages to give Ireland the lead against the European minnows.

But they could not add to their advantage in the first period and were punished just before the break as Bugaev sprung away from the defence and finished coolly past Darren Randolph.

Reuters

Long gives Ireland the lead

Reuters

McClean celebrates his leveller

Reuters

The Irish fans were in good voice in Chisinau

That was how it stayed until the 69th minute, when Jonathan Walters laid the ball off for McClean who finished smartly into the bottom corner from 12 yards.

McClean made the game safe seven minutes later, volleying home Seamus Coleman's centre after the Everton full-back had chipped back across goal from the byline.

The result puts Ireland second in Group D, behind leaders Serbia on goal difference.