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Live Reporting

Thomas McGuigan and Michael Emons

All times stated are UK

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  1. Goodbye

    So what a day for Scotland, Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. All three recorded victories in their Euro 2016 qualifiers.

    Thank you for being with us and for all of your comments. We will be back tomorrow so we will see you then. Bye for now.

  2. Coming up tomorrow

    We have had live text commentaries of today's football all day, and we have another bumper day of action tomorrow.

    Firstly, from 13:30 BST, the Women's Super League title will be decided with Chelsea, Birmingham and Liverpool all vying for the trophy going into the final day of the season.

    After that, the focus will switch to England's away qualifier in Estonia. That will be on the BBC Sport site from 16:00 BST as Roy Hodgson's side aim to record their third qualifying win. So don't miss out.

  3. Manager reaction

    Northern Ireland 2-0 Faroe Islands

    Northern Ireland manager Michael O'Neill, speaking to Sky Sports: "I am delighted with three points, especially with the performance and the intensity of our play. I knew we could not maintain the intensity through the second half but we saw the game out.

    "We have worked hard all week. The emphasis in our training was on getting that intensity, playing high up the pitch and I don't think the scoreline at half-time did us justice, given the quality of our play.

    "The fans were fantastic. It is a special atmosphere here and the players certainly responded to it. We go now in a confident mood to Greece on Tuesday. Belief is developing in the squad all the time. We don't envisage an easy game at all, but what we will have is a real go."

  4. Euro 2016 qualifier results

    Other results

    Albania, who won their opening Group I game by winning away at Portugal by a 1-0 margin, have gained another fine result, drawing 1-1 at home against Denmark. The hosts took a first-half lead through Ermir Lenjani's goal, but Lasse Vibe's late equaliser earned Denmark a point.

    Northern Ireland top Group F after Finland and Greece drew 1-1, while Germany, as mentioned, lost in Poland in Group D.

  5. Text us on 81111

    Poland

    Al: Germany 23 shots, 8 on target - did Poland get Jan Tomaszewski back in goal???

    Polish goalkeeper Jan Tomaszewski famously denied England a place at the 1974 World Cup with a series of saves in a qualifier between the two sides.

  6. World champions beaten

    Poland 2-0 Germany

    All over! Germany, after seven years without a defeat in European Championship qualifying, have now been beaten as Poland celebrate a famous 2-0 win. Warsaw is bouncing.

  7. FULL-TIME

    Northern Ireland 2-0 Faroe Islands

    Job well done. Two matches into the Euro 2016 qualification campaign and six points on the board. Michael O'Neill will be delighted with the result and his side's performance.

    Northern Ireland

    Roy Carroll did not have much to do, but his penalty save at the end of the first half denied Faroe Islands a way back into the game. Instead, only a number of fine saves from Gunnar Nielsen kept it at 2-0 after goals from Gareth McAuley and Kyle Lafferty.

    Northern Ireland have never qualified for the European Championship but will travel to Greece on Tuesday full of confidence. If O'Neill's team can get something from that match in Athens then there will be genuine optimism of qualifying for France 2016.

  8. Post update

    Northern Ireland 2-0 Faroe Islands

    It is 'ole' football from Northern Ireland as they play keep-ball, with every successful pass being cheered loudly from the Windsor Park crowd. There hasn't been much to cheer in recent years for Northern Ireland, but they have certainly played well tonight.

  9. Post update

    Poland 2-0 Germany

    Well how about this! Germany, the world champions, are now losing 2-0 to Poland.

    Robert Lewandowski did superbly to muscle off a defender and square a pass for substitute Sebastian Mila to sweep home. Amazing scenes with three minutes to go.

  10. Join the debate at #bbcfootball

    Fissuh Kelelom: "Germany are still recovering from Oktoberfest hangovers."

  11. SUBSTITUTION

    Northern Ireland 2-0 Faroe Islands

    Six minutes plus injury-time left and Kyle Lafferty, who has scored two of Northern Ireland's four Euro 2016 qualifying goals so far, is the man who comes off. He receives a tremendous reception, fully deserved, and is replaced by Kilmarnock's Josh Magennis.

  12. Post update

    Poland 1-0 Germany

    Ten minutes to go in Warsaw, and Poland are edging closer to a famous victory against the world champions. It's all Germany, but can the Poles hang on?

    Match stats
  13. Post update

    Northern Ireland 2-0 Faroe Islands

    Jamie Ward curls a direct free-kick at goal, the ball dips over the wall but Faroe Islands goalkeeper Gunnar Nielsen, who has looked competent, dives forward to punch the ball with two hands away from danger.

    Jamie Ward
  14. Join the debate at #bbcfootball

    Jack Morrison: Northern Ireland have their best chance ever it seems with a group of teams they can all beat.

  15. Post update

    Northern Ireland 2-0 Faroe Islands

    But this game is not wrapped up yet. Faroe Islands have their own version of Rory Delap and long throws from the right wing are causing problems for the Northern Ireland defence.

    The optimism of the first half and early in the second is being replaced by a sense of nervousness at Windsor Park. Northern Ireland deserve to take the three points, but need one more goal to settle any lingering tension.

    Niall McGinn
  16. CLOSE!

    Northern Ireland 2-0 Faroe Islands

    Paddy McCourt scored twice against the Faroe Islands when they were last in Northern Ireland. And the substitute is immediately involved in the action, firing a shot narrowly off target.

  17. Post update

    Poland 1-0 Germany

    Germany

    There could be quite the upset on the cards tonight if Poland manage to hold on. They are beating Germany 1-0, a scoreline all the more impressive considering all but one of Germany's outfield players had a shot on goal in the first half.

  18. SUBSTITUTION

    Northern Ireland 2-0 Faroe Islands

    Another change for the home side. Paddy McCourt comes on in place of Niall McGinn.

    There is no suggestion that Michael O'Neill is settling for what he has got and taking a 2-0 win. He wants more goals.

    A great reception for the Brighton midfielder from the Windsor Park fans.

  19. WHAT A MISS

    Northern Ireland 2-0 Faroe Islands

    Connor McLaughlin doesn't score many. And, unfortunately, he has just shown why.

    The Fleetwood right-back finds himself in the middle of the goal 12 yards out with the ball at his feet, dreaming of his first international goal. He then shakes his head as he trots back to his normal position, having shanked an effort well wide.

  20. CLOSE!

    Northern Ireland 2-0 Faroe Islands

    Jamie Ward's low shot, following a lovely build-up move from the hosts, takes a deflection for a corner. From that set piece, the ball falls to Kyle Lafferty but he cannot get over his shot and it sails harmlessly over the bar.

    Jamie Ward challenges for the ball
  21. Join the debate at #bbcfootball

    Mark Lynch: Wow what are the chances of Scotland and Northern Ireland winning but Germany losing??!

    Andrew Kemp: The Polish bus has just arrived at the stadium. Expect to see no great ambition to take it to Germany.

  22. Post update

    Poland 1-0 Germany

    Alasdair Lamont

    BBC Sport in Warsaw

    "This wasn't in the script for the world champions! Arkadiusz Milik scores a lovely glancing header from a cross that leaves Manuel Neuer completely stranded. This is a different game now - and the National Stadium is a cauldron of noise."

    Poland score
  23. SUBSTITUTION

    Northern Ireland 2-0 Faroe Islands

    It has been a quiet start to the second half, but Michael O'Neill makes his first change. He brings on Doncaster's Luke McCullough in place of first goalscorer Gareth McAuley.

    Niall McGinn has one of the first shots on target in the second period, but he does not give his attempted dink another juice and it is easy for Gunnar Nielsen, the Faroe Islands goalkeeper.

  24. Join the debate at #bbcfootball

    Andrew Priestley: "There's a real buzz and feal-good factor surrounding Windsor Park and Northern Ireland at the moment. Believe."

  25. Text us on 81111

    Belfast boy in Cambridge: "It may only be the Faroes but the way we're playing is so encouraging. Great credit to Michael O'Neill. Let's put this one to bed early in the second half!"

    Denver: "As a squad we actually look like we care about turning up and playing. Could just be Northern Ireland's turn."

  26. Post update

    Northern Ireland 2-0 Faroe Islands

    We are back under way and, as John rightly says, the Windsor Park crowd is loving this. Will Northern Ireland score any more in the second half? Stay with us to find out.

  27. Text us on 81111

    John: "I know it's 'only' the Faroe Islands, but this is the best, most complete Northern Ireland team performance I can remember watching. You can only beat what is in front of you. Windsor is bouncing, great to see!"

  28. Post update

    Northern Ireland 2-0 Faroe Islands

    Savour this Northern Ireland fans. As it stands, your team are going two points clear at the top of Group F.

    Table
  29. Elsewhere...

    Greece

    Albania, who beat Portugal in the opening round of qualifiers, are at it again. This time they are 1-0 up against Denmark.

    In Group F - that of Northern Ireland - Greece lead 1-0 in Finland, while world champions Germany are goalless in Poland in Group D, which is the home of Scotland and Republic of Ireland.

    Meanwhile, in a friendly, Portugal are being beaten again, this time 1-0 by France, with Karim Benzema the scorer.

  30. HALF-TIME

    Northern Ireland 2-0 Faroe Islands

    Northern Ireland fully deserve their lead at Windsor Park. They started superbly, going ahead in the first 10 minutes through Gareth McAuley's goal.

    Kyle Lafferty, who scored in the 2-1 win against Hungary, doubled the lead for Michael O'Neill's side and the striker could have had more, but for some fine goalkeeping from Faroe Islands' Gunnar Nielsen.

    But the job is still not finished, and Faroe Islands had a wonderful chance to pull a goal back from the penalty spot. However, an excellent one-handed save from 37-year-old goalkeeper Roy Carroll kept the score at 2-0.

  31. Post update

    Poland 0-0 Germany

    Alasdair Lamont

    BBC Sport in Warsaw

    "Germany really started to turn the screw at the end of that first half and debutant Karim Bellarabi could feasibly have had a hat-trick in the last 10 minutes, first slotting just wide from a tight angle and then twice having shots saved by Wojciech Szczesny. Add to that misses by Thomas Muller and Mats Hummels and Poland could have been going in well behind. As it is, they're still well in this match."

    Andre Schurrle
    Poland v Germany
  32. Text us on 81111

    Andrew in Tandragee: "Let's not get carried away. It's the Faroe Islands we are playing."

    Come on Andrew, enjoy it. Northern Ireland are playing wonderfully.

  33. GREAT SAVE!

    Northern Ireland 2-0 Faroe Islands

    Oliver Norwood has never scored for Northern Ireland in his previous 18 international matches, well, he nearly gets his first goal in the last minute of the first half.

    His well-struck 30-yard effort was a difficult one to stop, but Gunnar Nielsen does well to get two hands to the effort and parry it to safety.

    Oliver Norwood
  34. Post update

    Northern Ireland 2-0 Faroe Islands

    Northern Ireland
  35. MISSED PENALTY - FRODI BENJAMINSEN (Faroe Islands)

    Northern Ireland 2-0 Faroe Islands

    But what a save from Roy Carroll. Frodi Benjaminsen strikes his penalty well but Carroll dives the correct way, to his left, throws up an arm and manages to divert the ball on to the post. The Northern Irish defence manage to scramble the ball away and the two-goal advantage remains.

    Frodi Benjaminsen strikes from the penalty spot
  36. PENALTY TO FAROE ISLANDS

    Northern Ireland 2-0 Faroe Islands

    A chance for Faroe Islands to get back into the game. Joan Edmundsson runs into the box but Shane Ferguson has a hold of his arm and pulls his opponent back. Edmundsson makes the most of it, but it was foolish of Ferguson to give the referee the option. Israel official Alon Yefet points to the spot...

    Joan Edmundsson wins a penalty for Faroe Islands
  37. Post update

    Northern Ireland 2-0 Faroe Islands

    Kyle Lafferty
  38. CLOSE!

    Northern Ireland 2-0 Faroe Islands

    Another lovely move from Northern Ireland. Jamie Ward sprints down the right ring and Kyle Lafferty times his jump perfectly to power a header at the Faroe Islands goal. But the attempt goes just wide. The keeper was nowhere near it so it would have been 3-0 if the attempt was on target.

  39. Post update

    Northern Ireland 2-0 Faroe Islands

    BBC Sport

    Approaching the half-hour mark and Northern Ireland have completely dominated, as these match stats show.

  40. Post update

    Poland 0-0 Germany

    Alasdair Lamont

    BBC Sport in Warsaw

    "Cagey sort of start to this match, with Germany having plenty of possession and Poland looking to hit them on the counter-attack. So far, that's meant neither keeper has had to make a save of any note. Mats Hummels probably had the best chance with a header at the back post but he didn't connect at all well. The crowd's just started a Mexican wave, which is never a good sign!"

    Poland face Germany
  41. Post update

    Northern Ireland 2-0 Faroe Islands

    "Attack, attack, attack," chant the Northern Ireland fans - and the team are doing so at every opportunity. Michael O'Neill will be absolutely delighted with the performance from his team so far tonight. They are looking comfortable and completely deserve their 2-0 advantage.

  42. Text us on 81111

    Rich B from Winsford: Currently England, Wales, Ireland and (as it stands) NI sit atop their respective qualifying groups. Scary stuff! Has it ever happened before?

    Jenni in Newtownards: Now is the time for 'little' Northern Ireland to earn a place alongside the big boys of European football. Euro 2016 here we come, I'll get my passport now.

    Gareth McAuley celebrates
  43. GREAT SAVE!

    Northern Ireland 2-0 Faroe Islands

    A wonderful save. It should be 3-0. Kyle Lafferty, who scored three minutes ago, is unmarked in the penalty area and heads powerfully down at goal, but is denied by a fantastic reflex save by Gunnar Nielsen.

  44. GOAL

    Northern Ireland 2-0 Faroe Islands - Kyle Lafferty

    A clever, clever flick by Kyle Lafferty and it is 2-0 to Northern Ireland. He was the hero in the first game in Hungary and he manages to flick the ball with the outside of his boot past goalkeeper Gunnar Nielsen after Shane Ferguson's through ball.

    Kyle Lafferty celebrates
  45. GREAT SAVE!

    Northern Ireland 1-0 Faroe Islands

    It is all Northern Ireland in Belfast. This time the chance falls to Connor McLaughlin, making only his fourth appearance for his country, as he connects with a low corner at the near post. McLaughlin's effort is on target but blocked by the legs of Faroe Islands goalkeeper Gunnar Nielsen.

  46. CLOSE!

    Northern Ireland 1-0 Faroe Islands

    It is nearly 2-0 to the hosts. Great play from Shane Ferguson on the left wing. He cuts back inside onto his right foot and curls a wonderful cross to the back post. Kyle Lafferty does not know whether to throw himself at it or go with his foot. In the end he narrowly misses to get a touch.

  47. Post update

    Elsewhere tonight

    World champions Germany take on Poland, in the same group as Scotland and Republic of Ireland, while Northern Ireland will be top of Group F if they beat Faroe Islands and Finland fail to beat Greece.

  48. Text us on 81111

    Adam in Belfast: The first time in my lifetime I'm actually thinking we could qualify for a tournament, I'm getting butterflies in my stomach, come on Norn Iron!

  49. GOAL

    Northern Ireland 1-0 Faroe Islands (Gareth McAuley)

    What a great start for Northern Ireland. Only six minutes on the clock and defender Gareth McAuley, who earlier appeared to be struggling after being clattered by a Faroe Islands defender, arrives at the back post to convert a corner after Chris Baird's intelligent flick-on at the front post.

    That's the fifth international goal in 49 appearances for the West Brom centre-half.

    Gareth McAuley scores for Northern Ireland
  50. Post update

    Northern Ireland 0-0 Faroe Islands

    Northern Ireland

    Arguably Faroe Islands' best result against Northern Ireland was a 1-1 draw in Toftir during qualifying for Euro 2012.

    Northern Ireland made amends in the return leg, winning 4-0 - Aaron Hughes, Steven Davis, and Pat McCourt with the goals.

    Another big win on the cards tonight?

  51. KICK-OFF

    Northern Ireland 0-0 Faroe Islands

    We are under way in Belfast. There is building work at two sides of the ground, but the rest of the seats are sold out with the home fans already in good voice and confident of victory.

  52. Landmark for Hughes

    Northern Ireland v Faroe Islands (19:45 BST)

    Northern Ireland caps

    It is a big day for Northern Ireland's Aaron Hughes, who moves up to outright third in the number of all-time appearances for his country.

  53. Post update

    Northern Ireland v Faroe Islands (19:45 BST)

    Northern Ireland striker Kyle Lafferty, speaking to Sky Sports: "I think everyone knows it will be a fight. They will come with players behind the ball but with the quality of players in our team there will always be chances.

    "They are in our back yard now and we will definitely be looking to pick up all three points. The atmosphere and the belief in this team is something different and we just need to go on to the pitch in the right manner and give our all.

    "We will be fired up and ready to go."

  54. Group F so far

    Northern Ireland v Faroe Islands (19:45 BST)

    • Hungary 1-2 Northern Ireland
    • Faroe Islands 1-3 Finland
    • Greece 0-1 Romania
    • Romania 1-1 Hungary
    • At 19:45 BST, Finland v Greece and Northern Ireland v Faroe Islands
  55. Post update

    Poland v Germany

    Alasdair Lamont

    BBC Sport in Warsaw

    "Ten minutes to kick-off in Poland's National Stadium in Warsaw and the atmosphere is really beginning to build inside this wonderful arena. It'll be full come match-time and we should get a great spectacle in the Polish capital.

    "Can the hosts' ace striker Robert Lewandowski put his adopted country to the sword or will the world champions extend their unbeaten record against the Poles? Scotland and Ireland will each be hoping for a German victory as they vie for second place in Group D."

  56. 'We have to be at our best'

    Northern Ireland v Faroe Islands (19:45 BST)

    Michael O'Neill

    Northern Ireland manager Michael O'Neill, speaking to Sky Sports: "We have to be at our best and do the job properly to get the three points. This is a team who don't concede many in the first half of games, so we have to be patient tonight. We want to attack from kick-off but equally we have to exercise caution."

  57. Text us on 81111

    Andrew, via text: "Northern Ireland picked up a crucial away win in Hungary in the opening game, their first in four years. Another win tonight and we will be in dreamland!"

  58. Post update

    Northern Ireland v Faroe Islands (19:45 BST)

    The Faroe Islands are not complete no-hopers like say San Marino, who England brushed aside 5-0 on Thursday, or Gibraltar, beaten 7-0 at Republic of Ireland earlier today, but are still a side Northern Ireland will be expecting to beat.

    Only a handful of the Faroe Islands players are full-time professional footballers, while there are also lawyers, students, carpenters and electricians in their squad.

    They have played Northern Ireland four times, and, although they not won any of those matches, they have drawn on two occasions.

  59. Confidence rising

    Northern Ireland v Faroe Islands (19:45 BST)

    Northern Ireland are always consistent in European Championship qualifying - they always fail.

    Thirteen times they have tried and 13 times they have failed to reach the final stages of the tournament.

    Kyle Lafferty

    However, after a shock 2-1 win in Hungary and the fact that you could finish third in the group and still qualify, confidence is rising that this Northern Ireland team could claim a place in France in two years' time.

    If Michael O'Neill's side are to have any chance then there is no room for a slip-up today.

  60. Success for Northern Ireland?

    Thanks Thomas. It has been a successful day for Scotland and Republic of Ireland with victories over Georgia and Gibraltar respectively.

    Can Northern Ireland also claim three points today?

  61. Euro 2016 handover...

    Thomas McGuigan

    BBC Scotland Sport

    So, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland earn victories in Group D. Attention now turns to Northern Ireland's qualifier at home to the Faroe Islands.

    I'll pass the baton onto Michael Emons to take you through that one and the rest of tonight's games. Cheers!

  62. Post update

    Northern Ireland v Faroe Islands (19:45 BST)

    West Brom midfielder Chris Brunt is out with a groin injury and misses tonight's match against Faroe Islands and next week's clash with Greece.

    Northern Ireland starting XI: Carroll, McLaughlin, McAuley, Baird, Hughes, Davis, Norwood, Ferguson, Ward, Lafferty, McGinn

    Faroe Islands starting XI: Nielsen, Tor Naes, Davidsen, Gregersen, Nattestad, Justinussen, Hansson, Benjaminsen, Holst, Klettskard, Edmundsson

  63. Join the debate at #bbcfootball

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    Iain Wilson: Good result for Scotland but frailties exposed, lacking a cutting edge. Best chance was Georgia's, could easily have been tied.

  64. Manager reaction

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    Scotland manager Gordon Strachan

    Scotland manager Gordon Strachan: "That's the best hour; 65 minutes that we've had as a football team since I've been here."

  65. Manager reaction

    Republic of Ireland 7 (SEVEN)-0 Gibraltar

    Allen Bula

    Gibraltar manager Allen Bula, speaking to Sky Sports: "It is disappointing but we are all learning and eventually we will get there. Look at all the stats of other teams when they joined Uefa, they lost 6-0, 7-0. Everyone has taken a beating, and we will learn."

    On substituting his goalkeeper: "There were mistakes. I had the second goalkeeper there and if I see any players making mistakes, I will change things."

  66. Join the debate at #bbcfootball

    Thomas Dolfi: May the fourth (official) be with you, Scotland! Man muddles up numbers on board to help Strachan bide his time to win #SCOGEO #bbcfootball

  67. Manager reaction

    Republic of Ireland 7 (SEVEN)-0 Gibraltar

    Martin O'Neill

    Republic of Ireland boss Martin O'Neill, speaking to Sky Sports: "It was nice to get the early goal in the game. It settled us. I thought we got a little sloppy in the last 20 minutes of the game but outside of that I am very, very pleased.

    "We have talked all week about getting off to a good start, momentum is important to us, and we did that. We got the goals and it allowed us to settle down.

    "We have not got any serious injuries, just a couple of knocks and bruises, now we can concentrate on Germany."

    On Gibraltar: "There was talk about San Marino and Andorra a few years ago and they have been able to get a result here and there which have surprised. This is only Gibraltar's second competitive game.

  68. Post update

    FT: Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    Keir Murray

    BBC Sport Scotland at Ibrox

    "Hmmm. The feel-good factor under Scotland manager Gordon Strachan continues with this deserved win, but few fans will be getting carried away. Scotland's wastefulness in front of goal meant celebrations in the stands were put on hold as that visceral feeling of 'oh, don't blow it again, Scotland' gnawed away at the supporters."

  69. Join the debate at #bbcfootball

    FT: Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    Kheredine Idessane

    BBC Scotland

    Well done Scotland; more than decent performance which deserved more than 1-0. Win was needed & claimed. Poland next, much tougher, clearly.

  70. Join the debate at #bbcfootball

    FT: Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    Mike Pye: Strachan doing wonders for Scotland, we look much more promising than a few years ago.

  71. Post update

    FT: Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    Former Scotland international Willie Miller

    "I think we deserved the win over the 90 minutes and created enough chances in the second half. We didn't take those chances and that led to the nervousness towards the end of the game. Georgia didn't take their one really good chance."

  72. FULL-TIME

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    Handshakes, back-slaps and a few sighs of relief as Scotland earn their first victory in Euro 2016 qualifying Group D. As he trots off the pitch, Shaun Maloney receives the acclaim of his team-mates as his deflected shot provided the only goal of the game.

    Shaun Maloney
  73. Zlatan goes fishing

    Zlatan Ibrahimovic

    Sweden are not in Euro 2016 qualifying action again until Sunday, so how has striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic been spending time between games?

    "Gone fishing," he writes on his Facebook page.

    "Today we had a few hours of spare time after training. I took the opportunity to go fishing with the legend Claes "Svartzonker" Claesson. It resulted in two nice pikes. An unbeatable afternoon!"

  74. INJURY TIME

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    The fourth official redeems himself as he confidently holds the board aloft like a triumphant father lifting a newborn baby... and we'll have four additional minutes.

  75. Post update

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    It's Steven Fletcher who trots off and is replaced by Chris Martin. Heaven knows what the board will say about added time. "Nothing to see here?"

  76. Post update

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    Ikechi Anya is coming off for Scotland... No, he's not. The fourth official is having a bit of a Chucklevision episode as he makes a botched effort of displaying the Scotland substitution.

    The Scotland bench is up in arms; Gordon Strachan is fit to pop.

  77. FULL-TIME

    Republic of Ireland 7 (SEVEN)-0 Gibraltar

    So Republic of Ireland cannot go on to record an all-time record victory, but this is one of the easiest matches they will have ever played.

    Three up inside the opening 20 minutes, following a hat-trick from Robbie Keane, Ireland, aided by some shocking defending and woeful goalkeeping from Gibraltar, cruised to victory.

    James McClean netted twice, Wes Hoolahan got one and there was also an own goal from goalkeeper Jordan Perez.

    But it is a perfect evening for Martin O'Neill's side before they travel to face world champions Germany on Tuesday. For Gibraltar, they have played two European Championship matches, losing both by 7-0 margins.

    Martin O'Neill
  78. Post update

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    The game is becoming increasingly stretched as Scotland seek to kill Georgia off and the visitors aim for a dramatic late equaliser. Three minutes plus added time remaining. Can Scotland see this through?

  79. Text us on 81111

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    John, via text: "This is easily Scotland's best chance to qualify for a major international tournament given that Euro 2016 is being expanded and the quality their team now possesses. It would be a great shame if they missed out on qualifying."

  80. GREAT SAVE!

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    Steven Fletcher does brilliantly to tee up James Morrison but his low shot is brilliantly saved by Gorgi Lorla and the Georgian goal survives again. How on earth is this game still 1-0?

    Scotland striker Steven Fletcher

    Seven minutes plus added time remaining of a tense affair at Ibrox.

  81. Post update

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

    Former Scotland international Willie Miller on Steven Naismith's chance: "You would expect him to find the net. It was 16 yards out, on the half-volley. It's a huge let-off for Scotland."

  82. Join the debate at #bbcfootball

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    Dave McPhee: Fletcher has an appalling sense of awareness. In space many times and not aware of it.

  83. Post update

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    Come out from behind the couch. Georgia were liable to get a chance at Ibrox and Dzaria sends his 15-yard effort wide of David Marshall's goal after Scotland were sloppy in dealing with a rare attack.

    Gordon Strachan could've been holding his head in his hands for a different reason there.

    His counterpart Temuri Ketsbaia answers that missed chance with an arched eyebrow.

    Gordon Strachan
  84. Join the debate at #bbcfootball

    Republic of Ireland 7 (SEVEN)-0 Gibraltar

    Peter Jarvis: If 7-0 disqualified a nation from international matches where would Brazil be?

    Some Body: The bottom 8 teams in Europe should have their own pre-qualifier comp with 2 through to Qualifs proper.

    ColinD: When did everyone get so pompous about playing "minnows". Teams like Turkey readily got beaten by 6 or 7 in the past.

  85. CLOSE!

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    It could and should be 2-0. Steven Fletcher shows a superb piece of ingenuity, his back-heel gives Steven Naismith the chance to double Scotland's lead but the Everton marksman screws his shot wide.

    Gordon Strachan has his head in his hands.

  86. Record for Robbie

    Republic of Ireland 7 (SEVEN)-0 Gibraltar

    Robbie Keane

    Robbie Keane's hat-trick for Republic of Ireland against Gibraltar means no player has ever scored more goals in European Championship qualifying matches than him. It is still 7-0 in Dublin, by the way.

  87. Post update

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    Keir Murray

    BBC Sport Scotland at Ibrox

    This is becoming a bit tense here. For all Scotland's possession and chances around the visitors' box, a second goal is proving elusive. The defenders have to maintain concentration. That sloppy clearance by Andrew Robertson, although well recovered by the full-back, has done nothing to ease the nerves of the Tartan Army.

  88. Post update

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    Georgia skipper Jaba Kankava screws his effort well wide of target after Okriashvili's corner is partially cleared. David Marshall has yet to have his palms stung in this game but the visitors are trying to change that.

  89. Post update

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    But Maloney's free-kick is poor and the visitors immediately break up the park and force a corner...

  90. Post update

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    Scotland captain Scott Brown probes for an opening before finding Alan Hutton, who in turn feeds Steven Fletcher. The attack meanders from central midfield to wide on the right before Fletcher draws a foul.

    Shaun Maloney is over this one...

  91. Post update

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    Defender Grant Hanley does brilliantly to repel a clever Georgia ball into the Scotland box. Meanwhile, the clock continues to tick, tick down...

  92. Post update

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    Minor skirmishes in front of Scotland's goal as Georgia, despite not being able to test David Marshall, huff and puff before things fizzle out in the final third.

    We've got 20 minutes remaining at Ibrox for Scotland to double their lead or Temuri Ketsbaia's troops to force their way back into this Euro 2016 qualifier.

  93. Post update

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    More gnashing of teeth in Scotland ranks as Steven Fletcher fluffs his lines and dithers, to allow Georgia to recover and clear the ball high into the Glasgow night sky.

  94. Join the debate at #bbcfootball

    Republic of Ireland 7 (SEVEN)-0 Gibraltar

    Robert Monkman: Sam Robson [18:14].. Teams like Cyprus used to get drubbed. Albania too and they beat Portugal. Hopefully Gibraltar get better.

  95. Post update

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    A promising Scotland attack hits the rocks as Shaun Maloney's mis-placed pass fails to find a team-mate. Once again, with 65 minutes gone, the nerves begin to jangle.

    Finding a second goal from somewhere would ease the tension as darkness descends at Ibrox...

    Shaun Maloney
  96. Post update

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

    Former Scotland international Willie Miller: "Georgia have switched to an attack-minded formation, which could leave space for Scotland to attack. It's a much better game in the second half."

  97. GREAT SAVE!

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    What a chance! Alan Hutton slaloms past a couple of Georgia challenges before dinking the ball into Steven Naismith. About 10 yards out on the right-hand side of the box, the Everton man steadies himself and strikes at goal but, lumbering out like a hungry grizzly bear emerging from his cave, Gorgi Lorla gets his huge mitts on the ball.

    Steven Naismith
  98. Join the debate at #bbcfootball

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    Robert Martin: Game is crying out for Naismith to be replaced by Ryan Gauld but of course Strachan hasn't picked him.

  99. Post update

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    Scotland are doing their utmost to breach a white sea of Georgian defenders but once again the visitors stem another attack as Steven Naismith is squeezed out.

    With a little over half an hour remaining, the Scots hold a slender lead but continue to press for a second goal.

    They could do with borrowing one of Ireland's...

    Steven Naismith
  100. GREAT SAVE!

    Republic of Ireland 7 (SEVEN)-0 Gibraltar

    Republic of Ireland's David Forde has had nothing to do for an hour but then has to produce a fantastic save to deny Roy Chipolina's powerful header. That's been Gibraltar's only chance of the match, but Forde denied them.

    Ireland's record win came in 1983 when they claimed an 8-0 victory against Malta in a qualifier for the 1984 European Championship. They have 25 minutes to score twice more and beat that record.

  101. Join the debate at #bbcfootball

    Republic of Ireland 7 (SEVEN)-0 Gibraltar

    Jeet Padaruth: I feel really sorry for Gibraltar but fair play to them they're not simply #parkingthebus like San Marino.

    Gareth Murray: I've seen better pub teams than Gibraltar. They shouldn't be in international competitive football.

  102. Post update

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    Groans in the stands as Steven Naismith, in a central position about 35 yards from goal, tries to dab the ball into Steven Fletcher's path but there's too much on the ball and the attack fizzles out.

  103. SUBSTITUTION

    Republic of Ireland 7 (SEVEN)-0 Gibraltar

    He's conceded seven, including an own goal, but made a number of other decent saves and now goalkeeper Jordan Perez has been taken off with Jamie Robba now in goal for Gibraltar.

  104. Post update

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    In the absence of a second Scotland goal, the home fans inside Ibrox are becoming more than a little nervous and twitchy; like cinema-goers squirming in their seats watching the midnight showing of The Blair Witch Project...

  105. YELLOW CARD

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    Murtaz Daushvili is the latest Georgian to have his name added to the referee's rap sheet; this time for scything down the galloping Ikechia Anya.

  106. Join the debate at #bbcfootball

    Republic of Ireland 7 (SEVEN)-0 Gibraltar

    Niall McDermott: You have to feel for [Gibraltar keeper] Perez here!

    Sam Robson: I'm sorry but in what way does being drubbed every game help teams like Gibraltar? Germany could set a world record

  107. Post update

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    Alan Hutton, clearly stung by that clothes-line stop moments ago, comes roaring forward and whips in a cross from the right that finds Steven Fletcher in oceans of space.

    But the Sunderland marksman is flagged offside and the chance is lost.

    Steven Fletcher
  108. YELLOW CARD

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    The bearded Gia Grigalava is booked for a WWE-style block that stopped the galloping Alan Hutton in his tracks. The two give each other a Western film-style growl before calm is restored.

  109. GOAL

    Republic of Ireland 7 (SEVEN)-0 Gibraltar - Wes Hoolahan (56 mins)

    The Irish crowd could well be witnessing Republic of Ireland's biggest ever win. Wes Hoolahan gets a goal his play has deserved. Aiden McGeady and Robbie Keane are involved in the build-up and the ball falls to Hoolahan.

    He saunters past two half-hearted Gibraltar challenges and shoots home from close range. Seven and counting.

    Wes Hoolahan celebrates
  110. Post update

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    The visitors must have received a rocket from their manager at the break as they've come out emboldened and with their tails up.

    Some slick passing fizzles out in the final third as Scotland clear their lines.

  111. GOAL

    Republic of Ireland 6-0 Gibraltar - James McClean (53 mins)

    James McClean gets his second goal of the game and there are 37 minutes left for Gibraltar to try and battle on. More good work from Robbie Keane and McClean taps in from close range.

    James McClean scores his second goal of the game
  112. GOAL

    Republic of Ireland 5-0 Gibraltar - Jordan Perez own goal (51 mins)

    It is getting embarrassing now and Gibraltar's pride is taking a beating. Robbie Keane is through and tries to lob Jordan Perez for what would have been his fourth goal. The goalkeeper gets a hand to it, Wes Hoolahan's follow-up is blocked by Scott Wiseman but Perez then prods the ball into his own net. But wait, there's more...

    Jordan Perez
  113. KICK-OFF

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    We're back under way at Ibrox, with a change to the Georgian line-up...

    Turnike Okriashvili is on for David Kvirkveia as Temuri Ketsbaia shuffles his pack.

  114. Post update

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    Fed and watered, the teams trot back down the tunnel and out onto the pitch at Ibrox. The Proclaimers thunders out the tannoy system...

  115. GOAL

    Republic of Ireland 4-0 Gibraltar - James McClean (46 mins)

    Well, that didn't take long. Within 60 seconds of the restart, Republic of Ireland move 4-0 ahead. Gibraltar are carved open with Robbie Keane squaring the ball for Wigan's James McClean to tap in. Gibraltar's defenders appeal for offside, but there is no flag.

    Republic of Ireland players celebrate
  116. Post update

    Republic of Ireland 3-0 Gibraltar

    Robbie Keane

    Robbie Keane needs four goals to move above Gerd Muller in Europe's top international scorers list. Keane has 65 goals, Muller scored 68. Can he get the four he needs in the second half?

  117. League Two round-up

    A bit of an update from earlier from today's Football League...

    Hartlepool are off the bottom of the Football League thanks to a 2-1 win at Exeter, with Tranmere sliding to the foot of the 92 after a 1-0 defeat at home by Plymouth.

    Wycombe go top of the fourth tier with a 3-1 win at Morecambe, replacing Bury, who slide to third after losing to the odd goal in five at Wimbledon.

    Burton are second after winning 2-1 at Northampton.

  118. Shaun's Show?

    For those who tipped Shaun Maloney to get the first goal... I'm afraid to say that defender Akaki KhubutIa has been credited with an own goal following a mighty deflection.

    Shaun Maloney is congratulated by his Scotland team-mates after his deflected effort gave them the lead against Georgia
  119. 'Cheers ringing in their ears'

    Keir Murray

    BBC Sport Scotland at Ibrox

    "The Scotland players stroll away for half-time refreshments with cheers ringing in their ears. They'll expect manager Gordon Strachan to remind them that their lead is slender. The final ball into the box has to improve, so too the accuracy of the shooting."

  120. Join the debate at #bbcfootball

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    Jamie Pelling: Everyone is watching the Scotland match from somewhere sunny, I'm in freezing cold Chicago.

    Sammi Watson: Joining in with the glamorous locations people are saying they're in with my contribution: Middlesbrough.

    Sammi's trumped you there Jamie.

  121. England plot unbeaten run

    England manager Roy Hodgson, speaking ahead of Sunday's game in Estonia: "The performance of the subs in the win against San Marino has made my job harder. That's how it should be. It would be disappointing if it wasn't.

    England manager Roy Hodgson

    "It's hard to say if winning all 10 games is realistic. Having the goal of being unbeaten is more realistic. All that matters is getting to France 2016 and, when we get there, having a competitive team."

  122. Match stats

    Republic of Ireland 3-0 Gibraltar

    Republic of Ireland

    Sometimes the stats do not give a fair impression of the game. This time they do. It has been extremely easy for Republic of Ireland. Gibraltar have had one shot on target and have spent most of the half chasing trying to win the ball back.

  123. Join the debate at #bbcfootball

    Republic of Ireland 3-0 Gibraltar

    Steven McNamara: Martin O'Neill should bring Daryl Murphy on for Robbie Keane and rest him for Germany, Roy Keane's beard would score against these.

  124. HALF-TIME

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    Scotland are a goal to the good at the break, courtesy of Shaun Maloney's deflected strike. The half-time orange slices will taste all the sweeter with that goal and Gordon Strachan will be heartened by his side's efforts.

    Gordon Strachan
  125. Join the debate at #bbcfootball

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    Martin Taylor: Keeping up to date with the Scotland game from sunny Dubai! C'mon the Tartan Army!!

    David Bremner: Following Scotland score from a coffee shop in Kiev.

  126. Post update

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    The captains lock horns in midfield but Scott Brown and Jaba Kankava exchange a quick smile to defuse the situation and we're back up and running.

    Shaun Maloney, in a great position wide on the right, then fizzes a shot high and wide of the Georgia goal.

    "Get your head over it," laments former Scotland international Willie Miller from his radio commentary position.

    Scott Brown
  127. Post update

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    Scotland goalkeeper David Marshall gets a rare touch of the ball in this first half. Not dissimilar to Joe Hart in England's thumping of San Marino, the Cardiff keeper has been so quiet he could've enjoyed a couple of chapters on his Kindle...

    Speaking of England, manager Roy Hodgson and captain Wayne Rooney are holding a press conference right now as they look forward to Sunday's qualifier in Estonia. We'll bring you some quotes shortly...

  128. HALF-TIME

    Republic of Ireland 3-0 Gibraltar

    So it is easy for Republic of Ireland after Robbie Keane scored three times in 18 minutes to kill the game as a contest. Only a number of fine saves from Gibraltar goalkeeper Jordan Perez has kept it down to three.

    The minnows were hammered 7-0 by Poland in their first Euro 2016 qualifier and we could be seeing a similar score in Dublin today.

    But you can only beat the opposition in front of you and Ireland have looked dangerous every time they have broken forward with Wes Hoolahan and Aiden McGeady impressing, along with Keane.

    Robbie Keane celebrates
  129. Vote result

    FA Cup goals

    As well as all the international football today, it's also an FA Cup weekend and we've been asking you which goal was your favourite from a list of seven that we've featured on the site this week.

    The results are in, with 23.3% opting for Norman Whiteside's curling shot past Neville Southall to win the 1985 final for Manchester United against Everton, meaning that just edges out Liverpool defender Djimi Traore's spectacular own goal which helped Burnley knock out the Reds in the third round in 2005. That regrettable strike had 22.6% of the vote.

    Norman Whiteside celebrates

    Thanks for voting.

  130. Post update

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    The Scots are camped in Georgian territory and captain Scott Brown arrows a shot just wide of goal. In fact, it takes a slight but crucial deflection off a Georgian toe as it flies out for a corner.

    Georgia boss Temuri Ketsbaia might be advised to produce an exploding cigar from his Mission Impossible trench-coat in an effort to knock the Scots off their stride.

    It remains 1-0 but Scotland have the goal scent in their nostrils...

  131. Join the debate at #bbcfootball

    Scotland 0-0 Georgia

    Dunks Maguire: Sitting in Aquatica in Florida with my phone notifications on for the football, C'mon Scotland!!

    Lynsey Anderson: Keeping up to date with the Scotland game from our sun loungers.

  132. GREAT SAVE!

    Republic of Ireland 3-0 Gibraltar

    It is still 3-0 in Dublin, but Republic of Ireland could have had double that total after a dominant 35 minutes. After Robbie Keane's hat-trick in the opening 18 minutes, Aiden McGeady has twice been denied by fine saves from Gibraltar goalkeeper Jordan Perez, who normally works as a firefighter.

    Wes Hoolahan has also hit an effort just wide from 22 yards for Martin O'Neill's side. But it won't be as easy for Ireland later in the week. They are away at world champions Germany in their next match on Tuesday.

  133. Post update

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    It could and should be 2-0 to Scotland. They slice through the Georgian midfield like a knife through butter, and neat interplay between Maloney and Fletcher frees Naismith in the box but the keeper comes charging out to save at his feet.

  134. Post update

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    Former Scotland international Willie Miller: "Shaun Maloney has done everything right. He gets well over the top of it. It takes a couple of deflections, but it's a wonderful breakthrough for the Scots."

  135. YELLOW CARD

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    Ouch! Scotland midfielder James Morrison sees his name go into the referee's big black book for a late, sliding challenge on Giorgi Papava.

  136. Join the debate at #bbcfootball

    Republic of Ireland 3-0 Gibraltar

    Ken Gorry: Enjoying this new era under O'Neill and Keane, under Trap we would have shut up shop at 1-0

    Tom: Thought my text feed was stuck as there hasn't been an Irish goal for at least 10mins...

  137. Post update

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    Scotland

    That's that then?

  138. Post update

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia

    What a difference a goal makes. The relief pouring down from the stands is palpable as the Tartan Army find their voice to acclaim Maloney's breakthrough.

    The Scots charge forward again and Steven Naismith's shot takes a wicked deflection but Georgia goalkeeper Gorgia Lorla gets an oven glove-sized mitt on it.

  139. GOAL

    Scotland 1-0 Georgia (Khubutia OG)

    It's been coming. Scotland have the breakthrough as Shaun Maloney's low, rasping drive finds the net via a deflection off goalkeeper Gorgi Lorla and defender Akaki KhubutIa. The home side's unease was growing in line with their rising corner count and they have the reward their first-half pressure merits.

    Shaun Maloney scores for Scotland
  140. Post update

    Scotland 0-0 Georgia

    Just shy of the 25-minute mark and the Scotland fans inside Ibrox will be aware of the Republic of Ireland goal blizzard against Gibraltar.

    Time to hit the panic button? Not yet, but the home supporters would love a goal...

  141. Post update

    Scotland 0-0 Georgia

    Scotland probe down the left and Andrew Robertson whips in a dangerous cross to the near post as Steven Fletcher is thwarted by a combination of goalkeeper Gorgi Lorla and the offside flag.

  142. Post update

    Scotland 0-0 Georgia

    Keir Murray

    BBC Sport Scotland

    "Skipper Scott Brown is the only member of the starting 11 who plays for a Scottish club, his goalkeeping team-mate at Celtic Craig Gordon and Aberdeen defender Mark Reynolds being the only others in the 23-man squad at Ibrox. Don't get St Johnstone fans started on Stevie May's inclusion now that he has moved to Sheffield Wednesday..."

    Owls of protest I'd imagine...

  143. Post update

    Scotland 0-0 Georgia

    Shaun Maloney, from yet another Scotland corner, whips in the ball and the Georgia defence partially clear. The ball drops to James Morrison and the West Brom midfielder smacks it on the volley but it's high over the bar and stands more chance of taking out someone's pie and bovril than threatening goalkeeper Gorgi Lorla.

  144. Join the debate at #bbcfootball

    Republic of Ireland 3-0 Gibraltar

    Rian Hoskins: Hoolahan-McGeady-Keane is a strong attacking line for Ireland. Keane will score anywhere. Arguably Ireland's greatest player

  145. Join the debate at #bbcfootball

    Stevie Rooney: Watching Scotland game live in Vietnam. Makes for interesting commentary. Empty seats at Ibrox not a good look. Shame.

    Will Keogh: Steven Naismith has started really poorly - maybe he thinks he's still playing for Rangers at Ibrox!

  146. Post update

    Scotland 0-0 Georgia

    Much better from Scotland. Ikechi Anya thunders down the left and is thwarted by a desperate challenge by the back-tracking Solomon Kverkvella.

    It's a corner for the hosts but once again they can't force the issue with a promising set-piece.

    Scotland's Grant Hanley challenges Georgia's goalkeeper Giorgi Loria
  147. Post update

    Scotland 0-0 Georgia

    BBC Radio 5 live sports extra

    Former Scotland international Willie Miller: "Georgia are defensively well-drilled. If they get a point, they will be delighted. There's two banks of four, with defensive-minded players. They are making it difficult for Scotland, there's no space to work in."

  148. Post update

    Scotland 0-0 Georgia

    We get the first view of Georgia boss Temuri Ketsbaia, emerging from the dugout in a long trench-coat and scarf, looking like a Bond baddie or a sly assassin from Mission Impossible. All that's missing is lighting the cigar and sending forth a huge plume of blue smoke.

    He offers a quick, resigned shake of the head before taking his seat again; obviously unhappy at his side's attacking efforts so far...

  149. GOAL

    Republic of Ireland 3-0 Gibraltar - Robbie Keane (18 mins)

    A hat-trick inside 18 minutes for Robbie Keane. He sends goalkeeper Jordan Perez, who conceded the penalty, the wrong way. That is now 65 international goals in 135 matches for the former Tottenham man, who is now at LA Galaxy.

    Keane will have had fewer easier games than this. He has three goals already and will be looking to get a lot more.

    Robbie Keane scores a hat-trick for Republic of Ireland
  150. PENALTY TO REPUBLIC OF IRELAND

    Republic of Ireland 2-0 Gibraltar

    If your pub team defends like this tomorrow then you will be unhappy.

    Another simple ball over the top releases Robbie Keane. His shot is blocked by Roy Chipolina, but the ball breaks to Wes Hoolahan who is clumsily brought down by goalkeeper Jordan Perez. It is an easy decision for Cypriot referee Leonitos Trattou and it is a penalty.

  151. Post update

    Republic of Ireland 2-0 Gibraltar

    Robbie Keane

    Two goals for Robbie Keane with barely a quarter of the game gone. You would not bet against him grabbing a hat-trick, would you?

  152. GOAL

    Republic of Ireland 2-0 Gibraltar - Robbie Keane (14 mins)

    Pick a number, this could end up as anything. Awful defending from Gibraltar. Darron Gibson gives the ball to Wes Hoolahan and a simple ball through the middle of the visitors' back four allows Robbie Keane to run through and calmly finish past Jordan Perez.

    Two goals in 14 minutes for Ireland and for Keane. The game looks over already, it is just a question how many Ireland will win by.

    Robbie Keane scores his second goal of the game
  153. Post update

    Scotland 0-0 Georgia

    Alan Hutton, a full back reborn at Aston Villa, gallops down the right before feeding Shaun Maloney but Georgia are quick to press the pint-sized attacker.

    It's very, very tight in the opening 15 minutes at Ibrox and we're still waiting for the first goal.

  154. Georgia press

    Scotland 0-0 Georgia

    Valeri Qazaishvili sparks Georgia's first decent foray forward but Scotland's defence are alive to the danger and Russell Martin is there to mop up the attack and trigger a collective sigh of relief among the home fans.

  155. Patience is key

    Scotland 0-0 Georgia

    Whistles swirl around Ibrox as Georgia enjoy their longest spell of possession; with Scottish midfielders snapping at their heels.

    Patience will be the key for Scotland, you'd imagine. Georgia offer a different kind of threat to Germany.

    Andrew Robertson of Scotland battles for the ball
  156. Join the debate at #bbcfootball

    Joe Regan: This is the kind of game that Scotland have to start winning comfortably if they're to qualify for big competitions. COME ON.

  157. Chipping away

    Scotland 0-0 Georgia

    Scotland force the first corner of the game as the men in blue ping the ball about with attacking zest...

    But they fail to profit from the set piece and Georgia clear their lines. Gordon Strachan and his Scotland assistant Stuart McCall share a tactical thought on the touchline. Encouraging signs for the hosts but it remains goalless after five minutes.

  158. GOAL

    Republic of Ireland 1-0 Gibraltar - Robbie Keane (6 mins)

    Republic of Ireland take only six minutes to break down the Rock. A poor clearance from Gibraltar goalkeeper Jordan Perez enables Wes Hoolahan to release Aiden McGeady down the right wing.

    The Everton man, who scored twice in Ireland's 2-1 win against Georgia, plays a perfectly-weighted cross along the floor to an unmarked Robbie Keane and he sidefoots the ball into the net for his 63rd international goal.

    Robbie Keane opens the scoring
  159. League One round-up

    Crewe have completed a 2-1 win over Coventry, only their second victory of the season, but remain bottom thanks to Scunthorpe's 3-0 win at Gillingham.

    Bristol City have extended their lead at the top of the table to five points with a 3-2 success over Chesterfield, with Peterborough moving up to second by winning 4-1 at Crawley.

    Port Vale have moved out of the bottom three with a 4-1 home win against Yeovil.

  160. On the offensive

    Scotland 0-0 Georgia

    Scotland, eager to make early inroads into Georgian territory, move forward and try to get the ball to Steven Naismith.

    However, the visitors do enough to snuff out the danger.

  161. Post update

    Republic of Ireland 0-0 Gibraltar

    Gibraltar
  162. Tribute paid

    A minute's applause at Ibrox for former SFA chief executive David Taylor, who passed away earlier this year.

  163. KICK-OFF

    Scotland 0-0 Georgia

    Hang onto your hats, we're off and running...

  164. Home comforts

    Come out from behind the couch, it's going to be okay, okay?

  165. Give us a song

    The rain has eased over Ibrox and the respective national anthems are delivered with gusto. Handshakes exchanged between the players as Scotland prepare for their first home match in Euro 2016 qualifying Group D.

  166. Join the debate at #bbcfootball

    Republic of Ireland v Gibraltar (17:00 BST)

    Rian Hoskins: While Martin O'Neill is a great manager, I have to question why Jeff Hendrick is ahead of Stephen Quinn when against Gibraltar.

    Nathan Pedersen: The Gibraltar goalkeeper will have to be on fire today to keep out this Irish team...

    See what Nathan did there? [see 16:39 entry]

  167. Scotland strutting their stuff

    Gordon Strachan's troops on song...

    Scotland
  168. Nearly there...

    Minutes until kick off at Ibrox and Dublin as the Euro 2016 qualification campaign rumbles on...

  169. 'Good atmosphere'

    Keir Murray

    BBC Sport Scotland

    There's a good atmosphere here at Ibrox but so far it's some way short of the carnival created by the fans attending the Commonwealth Games rugby sevens. Still, a Steven Naismith goal or two would change all that...

  170. Tickets too costly?

    An interesting little vignette to today's qualifier at Ibrox, BBC Scotland pundit Chick Young says the crowd for Scotland v Georgia will be significantly below capacity.

    The bold Chico is holding forth on high ticket prices and is criticising the Scottish FA...

  171. Fletcher on the bench

    Scotland captain Darren Fletcher will be cooling his heels on the bench in one of four changes by Gordon Strachan.

    Scott Brown returns to the midfield engine room, having missed the defeat by Germany through injury, while Andrew Robertson, Shaun Maloney and Steven Fletcher all start.

    Scotland captain Darren Fletcher (right) in action against Germany

    Joining Fletcher on the bench is Steven Whittaker and Barry Bannan, while Charlie Mulgrew is suspended.

  172. Republic of Ireland v Gibraltar (17:00 BST)

    Robbie Keane makes his 135th appearance for Republic of Ireland in their match against Gibraltar. Sunderland defender John O'Shea is now only two away from 100 caps. David Meyler replaces the injured Seamus Coleman at right-back.

    Republic of Ireland XI: Forde, Meyler, O'Shea, Wilson, Ward, Hendrick, Gibson, Hoolahan, McGeady, Keane, McClean.

    Gibraltar XI: J. Perez, Wiseman, R.Casciaro, R.Chipolina, J.Chipolina, Payas, R.Bado, B.Perez, Walker, Gosling, L.Casciaro.

  173. Ball zipping about

    With Georgia boasting a record of just three wins from 30 competitive games, the hosts at Ibrox will undoubtedly be labelled favourites. Will three points be hoovered up before the squad head for Poland and their next qualifier on Tuesday?

    The sun is shining over Ibrox but there's some drizzle too: typical Glasgow weather. The ball will be zipping about the lush surface with abandon.

    Time for cool heads and laser-sharp control...

  174. Watch out for the fireman...

    Republic of Ireland v Gibraltar (17:00 BST)

    Gibraltar

    With Gibraltar not having a professional league, Allen Bula's national team is quite the mix of overseas-based pros and part-time footballers with varied day jobs.

    The odds seem against them, but can they pull off a shock today?

  175. Anya Delivers...

    Before narrowly losing to world champions Germany, Scotland found themselves on the crest of a wave and a six-match unbeaten run.

    Ikechi Anya.

    Their impressive form has much to do with the searing pace and wizardry of Watford winger Ikechi Anya, who scored a spectacular goal in the 2-1 defeat by the mighty Germans.

    Can he wreak similar havoc against the Georgians?

  176. Join the debate at #bbcfootball

    BBC Scotland's Keir Murray at Ibrox

    "Ibrox stands sparse now for Scot v Georgia but tickets available for main stand rear and Govan rear only."

    Ibrox Stadium
  177. LINE-UPS

    Teams from Ibrox

    Scotland: Marshall, Hutton, Robertson, R. Martin, Hanley, Maloney, Morrison, Brown (c), S. Fletcher, Naismith, Anya. Subs: Gordon, C. Martin, Reynolds, Whittaker, Bannan, Burke, D. Fletcher, G. Dorrans, Gilks, May.

    Georgia: Lorla, Lobzhanidze, Kverkvella, Grigalava, Khubutla, Kankava (c) Daushvili, Gelashvili, Kvirkveia, Papava, Qazaishvili.

    Georgia subs to follow...

  178. Scotland v Georgia (17:00 BST)

    Tom English

    BBC Scotland

    "Scotland v Georgia. This will be the 46th international match I've seen at Ibrox..."

  179. Republic of Ireland v Gibraltar (17:00 BST)

    Former Republic of Ireland defender Mark Lawrenson

    On Roy Keane: "He completely divides the country in two and has done since Saipan. A lot of us looked at that and thought 'why would you travel thousands of miles to play in the World Cup and give that up because of a row with the manager?' I wouldn't.

    "I couldn't at all understand why he didn't go to Mick McCarthy the next day and sort it all out."

  180. Football feast...

    The shift from domestic to international football can often feel strange for supporters; like putting on a new coat for the first time and scuttling outdoors tentatively into the biting cold.

    It jars for 10 minutes before you acclimatise and enjoy the change in temperature and scenery.

    Scotland fan
  181. League Two latest

    Another bottom club winning are Hartlepool, with the Football League's basement team 1-0 up at Exeter.

    At the top of League Two, leaders Bury are 3-1 down to AFC Wimbledon and look set to be overhauled by Wycombe, who are leading Morecambe 2-1.

  182. League One latest

    It's not all about international football today - there's action going on in the Football League as well..

    There's something of a shock unfolding in the the third tier of English football, where Crewe Alexandra, who have won only once all season, lead Coventry 2-1.

    Port Vale and Scunthorpe, both also in the bottom three, lead Yeovil and Gillingham respectively.

    At the top, leaders Bristol City are beating Chesterfield 2-1 and third-placed Peterborough are winning by the same score at Crawley.

  183. 'Spring in the step'

    Gordon Strachan has declared himself happy with Scotland's progress under his guidance but he's reluctant to set a points target in Euro 2016 qualifying.

    "We seem to be adding to the spring in the step of Scottish sports fans and that makes us happy," he said.

    "The players make me feel confident. They determine the mood of the coaches most of the time and they have satisfied me this week."

    Scotland boss Gordon Strachan

    Scotland have not played at a major finals since the 1998 World Cup, but an upturn in results and an expanded tournament have raised hopes of a return to France the year after next.

    "How you get there, you never know," added Strachan, who was tight-lipped on his team selection. "You can't plan it. You never know when the big games are and when the disasters are coming.

    "You just have to deal with them and hope there aren't too many disasters."

  184. Republic of Ireland v Gibraltar (17:00 BST)

    However, ex-Sunderland and Ipswich boss Keane admits he wants to be the boss again in the future.

    "Deep down I do want to get back in the hotseat, but I don't know when that will be.

    "Hopefully there will be an opportunity for me to get back to be a manager. I don't sit around hoping for managers to lose their job but if I get a call from somebody I will have a look at it."

  185. Republic of Ireland v Gibraltar (17:00 BST)

    Martin O'Neill and Roy Keane

    Republic of Ireland and Aston Villa assistant manager Roy Keane says he is "enjoying" being a number two - for now.

    "I think, strangely enough, that being a manager has helped me being a number two because I know how difficult it is.

    "I have to know my boundaries with Martin O'Neill. I know my role and hopefully Martin is taking my opinions on board about players and training sessions. I've no problem with that.

    "When I was captain at Manchester United, people thought I overstepped the mark but I don't ever think I did. I knew I was not the manager."

  186. Later...

    Later this evening, Northern Ireland will look to continue their good start to Group F when they play the Faroe Islands.

    That's a 19:45 BST kick-off, the same as another Group I fixture, Finland v Greece. The early game sees Romania meet Hungary.

  187. Elsewhere...

    Today, our truncated Euro 2016 programme carries a homely feel.

    The Republic of Ireland host Gibraltar in what will be the minnows' first competitive away international.

    In the same group, world champions Germany travel to Poland, while in Group I, Armenia entertain Serbia and Albania meet Denmark.

  188. Georgia on their minds...

    The Euro 2016 qualifying juggernaut has rumbled into action and we have a veritable feast to warm our collective cockles.

    Scotland, emboldened and disappointed in equal measure following their gallant defeat by Germany, aim to record a first win in Group D against Georgia.

    Shay Given (left) and Georgia manager Temuri Ketsbaia

    Georgia, of course, are managed by Temuri Ketsbaia, the former Newcastle and Dundee striker who, during his playing days, had advertising hoardings cowering in fear of his white-hot goal celebrations.

    Bald as an eagle - with less hair than Duncan Goodhew and a steely-eyed determination to upset Scotland's applecart - Ketsbaia will be one to watch in the technical area at Ibrox.

  189. Get Involved

    How do you see the game at Ibrox panning out? Can Scotland take a victory with them on the flight to Poland ahead of Tuesday's qualifier?

    Can Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland strike gold tonight?

    Text 81111 or tweet using #bbcfootball with your pearls of wisdom.

  190. LINE-UPS

    Scotland team to face Georgia

    Scotland: Marshall, Hutton, Robertson, R. Martin, Hanley, Maloney, Morrison, Brown(c), S. Fletcher, Naismith, Anya. Subs: Gordon (GK), C. Martin, Reynolds, Whittaker, Bannan, Burke, D. Fletcher, G. Dorrans, Gilks (GK), May.

    Despite impressing for Celtic since returning from long-term injury, goalkeeper Craig Gordon settles for a place on the bench as Gordon Strachan keeps faith in David Marshall.

  191. FA Cup vote

    Today may be a big day of international football, but it is also a busy weekend of FA Cup fixtures, with clubs now just two wins from the first round.

    Each week we've been asking you for your favourite from a selection of goals, and you can vote now at the top of this page to choose from our latest selection. Voting will close at 17:30 and we'll announce the results on this page. Terms and conditions can be found here.

    Which is the greatest of these seven FA Cup goals?

    1. Manchester United's Norman Whiteside's curling shot past Neville Southall to win the 1985 final against Everton.

    2. Conference side Luton Town striker Scott Rendell's near-post finish against Premier League Norwich in the fourth round in 2013.

    3. Liverpool defender Djimi Traore's spectacular own goal as Burnley knock out the Reds in the third round in 2005.

    4. Manchester United's Mark Robins reportedly saving Alex Ferguson's job by scoring against Nottingham Forest in the 1990 third round.

    5. Liverpool's Michael Thomas volleying the opener in the 1992 final against Sunderland, having denied the Reds the 1989 league title when playing for Arsenal.

    6. Everton's Kevin Sheedy scoring a wonderful free-kick in the 1985 quarter-final against Ipswich twice after the referee ordered a retake.

    7. Chesterfield local hero Jamie Hewitt celebrates his 1997 FA Cup semi-final equaliser against Middlesbrough to force a replay.

  192. Here we go...

    Good evening and a warm welcome to our live text commentary of a bumper edition of Euro 2016 qualifying.

    First up in Group D, it's Scotland v Georgia at Ibrox. Kick off is at 17:00, with group rivals Republic of Ireland locking horns with Gibraltar at the same time.

    Attention then switches to Northern Ireland v Faroe Islands in Belfast at 19:45.

    Are you sitting comfortably? Good, then we'll begin...

  193. Scotland poised for Good Times?

    Scotland appear to be a different animal under Gordon Strachan.

    The all-too-familiar cloak of obdurate football has been thrown off to reveal a glitter ball of confident attacking swagger, like Nile Rogers leading Chic in the opening bars of Good Times.

    Gordon Strachan

    The result? Scotland supporters believe qualifying for a major finals for the first time since France 98 is within the national side's grasp.