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Republic of Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni was content after his side fought back to earn a 1-1 draw against the Czech Republic in Wednesday's friendly at the Aviva Stadium.

The Republic manager was pleased as Simon Cox's late equaliser cancelled out Milan Baros' 50th-minute goal.

"In the second half, we played better. We were more aggressive and we deserved the draw," said Trapattoni.

"In the first half, we couldn't contain them because they had more possession."

Trapattoni acknowledged his unhappiness at the concession of Baros' goal as the former Liverpool and Aston Villa striker was left completely unmarked before coolly slotting over Shay Given.

"We made a great mistake (in defence) for the goal because we gave them the ball."

Trapattoni opted to wait 79 minutes before introducing in-form Sunderland winger James McClean for his first cap.

McClean's introduction was greeted by rapturous applause from the 37,741 strong crowd and the former Derry City player said the reception had given him "goosebumps".

"I was absolutely delighted to get on," said McClean, who was playing League of Ireland football eight months ago.

"A moment you dream of growing up as a kid.

"I was happy with any game time I was going to get."

Asked about his prospects of forcing his way into the Republic's Euro 2012 squad, McClean said that he hoped to keep himself in contention by continuing to produce good club form for Sunderland.

"My main focus is doing well for Sunderland week-in, week-out. With that you never know come summer."

John O'Shea, named man of the match, felt that the Irish had been "a little flat" in the opening half.

"Like a lot of occasions, we needed that goal to wake us up a bit," said O'Shea.

"We finished up very strongly, which was a bit of a pattern throughout the (Euro 2012 qualifying) group as well.

"It's something we have to improve on going into the European Championships because against the calibre of teams we are going to be playing, we can't afford to give teams a goal start."

O'Shea described the reception that greeted his club-mate McClean's introduction as "fantastic".

"I haven't heard a noise that loud for a long time.

"He's deserved it. He's made a huge impact at club level and I'm sure for the future of Ireland, it's going to be amazing.

"You saw with the few glimpses he got, defenders are scared of him. They back off and he creates space for others."