Estonia 1 Republic of Ireland 1:Don Givens's side hit the woodwork three times and dominated their hosts Estonia in Rakvere today, but had to settle for a 1-1 draw in their second Uefa Championships qualifier.

Having lost their opening fixture against Turkey 3-0 last March, the Irish were keen to make amends against the group leaders but were left frustrated after bouncing back from conceding a fourth minute goal.

Estonian striker Kaimar Saag’s turn and 12-yard shot in the fourth minute gave the hosts the lead but Cillian Sheridan struck back three minutes later when his long range effort squeezed under goalkeeper Stanislav Pedok.

The visitors controlled the rest of the half and both captain Owen Garvan and Sheridan went close, first from long range and then from a corner.

The latter then headed against the crossbar in the 20th minute and 12 minutes later he hit the post after another Alan Judge cross.

The crossbar was rattled again four minutes before the break when Garvan struck a rasping free-kick that had Pedok beaten.

Judge went close after the restart when Jay O’Seah found him at the back post and substitute Sean Scannell shot just wide with 16t minutes to go.

Two minutes later, at the other end, Shane Redmond delivered when he was called upon to deny Saag.

His counterpart twice kept the sides level before the final whistle to ensure Estonia went top on seven points.

Givens must no prepare his side to Georgia and Switzerland in October.