Ireland: Hosts ‘sick’ of losing, says Nathan Collins after Greece defeat

Collins expressed his disappointment with the manner in which the Republic conceded goals, particularly the first goal.

Ioannidis’ opening goal came five minutes after the break, curling the ball in from outside the penalty area after being given too much time and space.

Tzolis scored his second goal five minutes from time after a quick counter-attack and a confident finish.

“I think we lost our form a little bit (on the first goal), it was a good goal but I think there were things we could have changed,” Collins explained.

“I thought we started strongly in the second half and had the upper hand, but I think that goal unfortunately took a lot out of us.

“When we are ahead at home, we have to look for the equalizer and chase it. There will be counters, but the first goal was really frustrating.”

Brentford centre-back Collins acknowledged the Republic played much better than in their opening match against England, which they lost 2-0, especially in the first half.

However, he did admit they need to develop a clinical edge to get anything from their next two games, away to Finland and Greece in October.

“I think we were very dominant in the first half and they couldn’t get past us,” he continued.

“We had good possession of the ball and created many chances, but we need to score.

“We have to put ourselves out there and give ourselves something to fight for in the game.”