In an upset that has the nation reeling at half time, Ireland is down two-nil to Russia in a first half that has seen the Russians dominate.

To date Ireland have won their first two matches and are currently at the top of their own qualifying group. They won by one goal against Armenia away from home and then they defeated Andorra by three goals to one playing at home.

But today, in a match that commentators predicted they'd win, they've hit a Russian minefield.

First a free kick by Kerzhakov caused an upset as he scored from close range. Later a good ball that Kerzhakov cleverly steped over allowed Dzagoev to slide it home.

At half-time even Republic of Ireland fans must reluctantly concede that Russia deserve their lead. Right now, we have to say, it's not looking good.