Randolph wants "cool heads" against Wales

Darren Randolph says the Ireland players must show "cool heads" in Monday's must-win World Cup Qualifier against Wales.

Victory over Chris Coleman's team at the Cardiff City Stadium will guarantee Ireland second spot in Group D, and a place in November's play-offs.

And Martin O'Neill's side could even top the group and qualify automatically for Russia 2018 if group leaders Serbia are beaten by Georgia in Belgrade.

The reverse fixture between the sides in Dublin in March ended in a goalless draw, but the game was marred by the double leg fracture suffered by Ireland captain Seamus Coleman after Wales' defender Neil Taylor's horror tackle.

Ireland goalkeeper Randolph, 30, accepts that Monday's game against Wales will be a high-intensity affair, but says manager O'Neill has warned the players against chasing the victory too early.

"It's definitely a night to play the game, not the occasion," the Bray native said.

"Definitely cool heads. Everyone knows what is at stake. We want to stay in the game as long as possible."

Ireland have scored four goals in the opening five minutes of games in 2018 World Cup qualifying, the most of any European side, but Randolph expects Monday's British Isles derby to be a cagier affair.

"As the manager said, we don't need to score in the first minute. The longer we stay in the game, it better it is.

"Maybe sometimes it can be ­easier if you're the away team.

"The expectation isn't on you to go and force the issue in the ­football match."

The Republic of Ireland's Under-21 European Qualifier Group 5 qualifier against Israel at Tallaght Stadium on Monday, 9 October will be shown live on eir Sport 1 from 3.25pm [KO 3.30pm].

Photo Inpho/ Lorraine O'Sullivan

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