Despite a brave display the Irish where on the back foot but held firm defensively with Birmingham City keeper Maik Taylor denying the home side on a number of occasions. However with just over 20 minutes remaining the game was won when striker Zisis Vryzas was fouled in the area by Sunderland defender George McCartney and referee Lucilio Cardoso Cortez Batista had no option but to dismiss McCartney and award the penalty in which Tsartas duly dispatched.
Former Wanderers striker Fredi Bobic was also in Euro 2004 action as he scored one of the goals in Germany's 3-0 win over Iceland to send the Germans through in top place of their group. Iceland included ex-Bolton players Eidur Gudjohnsen and Birkir Kristinsson in their line up.