Republic of Ireland's Robbie Keane is not giving up hope they can qualify for Euro 2012 despite being held by Slovakia.
Ireland striker not dwelling on dropped points
Republic of Ireland striker Robbie Keane is not giving up hope the nation can qualify for Euro 2012 despite being held by Slovakia on Friday.
Giovanni Trapattoni's side now trail Group B leaders Russia by two points ahead of Tuesday's meeting after letting two precious points slip through their fingers.
There are three qualifiers remaining and Keane believes there is everything to play for despite being left a mountain to climb.
The LA Galaxy man felt Ireland deserved more than the point they got against Slovakia, although the goalless draw is not getting the squad down.
Tough
"It was always going to be tough anyway regardless of the result (against Slovakia)," commented Keane.
"But there is still a lot to play for - there are three games left - and there's no reason why we can't go there and get three points.
"We have done it before against the big teams and there's no reason why we can't do it again.
"Obviously Russia are the favourites, but there is no reason why we can't go over there and get the three points. Of course it's going to be difficult, but what game is easy?
"We don't make it easy for ourselves and that's been the case for a long time. We do things the hard way. But listen, we can't get too down about it.
"We were the better side last night and we have another massive game on Tuesday, so it's important that we start focusing on that."
