So after another turbulent week of posting over in the Irish forums, the Republic of Ireland faithful are gearing up for their 3^rd qualifying game in the WC campaign.  

The wise Elland Rovers has apparently joined the legions of Derek Gaffer fans.   

For those who missed it, allow me to quote:

“Yeah, come on guys, get your opinions out before the game. It's nice and easy to criticise formation and selection with the benefit of hindsight.

I'd especially like to hear the thoughts of the more vocal critics - I wonder whether Mr. Gaffer has a pre-match opinion?”

Well as you all know, my gig is post match analysis. But seeing as Elland asked so nicely, I shall cast my eye over the match (just this once mind you).

The improvements between match day 1 and match day 2 were positive... after all, the boss actually logged on to pick a team. It was the wrong selection but hindsight is a beautiful thing as Elland so cleverly pointed out. So all eyes will be firmly fixed on the team selection for what is a huge game against Hungary.

On paper, Hungary are a very strong outfit. Dare I say it, stronger than the Irish perhaps?

From the brick house goalkeeper Kemenez, through to the ferocious striker Doczi, Hungary have a squad packed full of talented players who on paper are more than capable of handing Celtic Bhoys his first competitive defeat.

In saying that, we do possess a squad which, if utilised correctly, can top this group. Formation will be key going into this game. I was delighted to see the manager acknowledge that he made the wrong call last time out;

“Yes the tactics against Azerbaijan were not best suited to us, maybe that was me trying to negate the opposition rather than us playing to our strengths.”

He didn’t try to sugar coat his poor judgement (which is commendable) but the proof will be in the pudding tomorrow evening. Hungary are the only country yet to concede a goal in the group (not hard to see why when you look at that keeper) and they have a very solid back line, so I can’t see CB masterminding a 5-0 drubbing. One big bonus for us is that the Hungarian coach is a fan of formation jumping and his squad selections thus far have been very questionable. I don’t think he even knows his best 11. In my opinion, if we were to field a solid 4-4-2 with all our key players in their best positions, we could capitalise on their uncertainty and sneak away with a 1-0 win.

And there ladies and gents, is my prediction:

IRELAND 1 - 0 HUNGARY

It’s a game that is crying out for CB to give us some stability and play our lads to their strengths.

In reality though, I could see CB going on the experimental attack again and we will be lulling over our first defeat come Saturday night. I hope he proves me wrong.

COME ON IRELAND

While I'm on, I would just like to add one quick little comment for Irish Wolfhounds :)

Wolfie your criticism cut me... deep....

“I think MR. Gaffer is only interested in sticking the knife in and slagging off other managers it would'nt work for him to post a pre match comment as he may get it wrong :)”

I hope this isn’t just you being bitter because I turned you down on your offer? As I said in the pm, I was chuffed to be offered the job as your #1 reporter, it’s just not the right time. Don’t be callous my friend. It doesn’t suit you :)