Trapattoni wants six

SOCCER WORLD CUP QUALIFIER Georgia v Republic of Ireland:AS THE Irish completed their preparations for this evening's game against Georgia (kick-off 5pm) last night, Giovanni Trapattoni admitted that, for a team claiming to be serious qualification contenders, anything less than six points between now and Wednesday night will be a disappointment.

"Sometimes when the coach is asked about what he wants from the games he says that is it important to get four points," said the Italian. "But coaches can be liars a little bit, because in their heart they want six points. Well, I think six . . . maybe you think four, but I think six is possible."

His team are close to full strength, the weather is dreary and the Bruchweg stadium is expected to contain considerably more Irish fans than Georgians.

Trapattoni acknowledged that his opposite number, old rival Hector Cuper, will also reckon the Georgians have the ability to win, but the 69-year-old feels his players have made steady progress in their friendly games and possess the skills and strength to win their opening ties.

"It's a tough group and I'm sure all of the teams will think that they can qualify. We think so too, and after looking at the games against Serbia, Colombia and Norway I think there is reason to be confident."

Trapattoni said he is happy that significant progress has been made on addressing the "little details" that have routinely cost Ireland points in the past.

The game, he observed, is of critical importance.

"The first game in the World Cup, European Championship or any competition is always very, very important.

"Psychologically it is good to get the first win and we are confident that we can play a beautiful and good game."

It is also of potentially huge significance to the FAI, who will launch their 10-year ticket scheme for the redeveloped Lansdowne Road over the coming weeks and, with individual seats costing up to €32,000, that association could do with the team making a flying start to the new campaign.