Not only did Duffy provide the assist for Clark’s goal but the pair read the game superbly and they made important interceptions and tackles.
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But with only one more game now scheduled before the squad departs for France, a home clash with Holland on May 27 – although there remains the possibility that another could be squeezed into the schedule – time is running out fast for latecomers to make an impression, as winger James McClean did four years ago.
O’Shea, who will be 35 by the time the finals get under way, knows it could be his last tournament, and he will head off to France hoping to have helped his club avoid relegation from the Barclays Premier League once again.
The delivery from set-pieces and crosses resulted in the majority of chances created, including the opening goal and the Shane Long header which came back off the crossbar.
Switzerland were able to dictate the early second-half action from midfield, Borussia Monchengladbach star Xhaka exercising an easy control over proceedings, but the unfamiliar Ireland line-up held their shape impressively and worked tirelessly to protect Randolph.
Switzerland controlled possession in the second half, but chances were few and far between and O’Neill responded by sending on Jonny Hayes and Eunan O’Kane for their debuts. It got Ireland off to a flying start.
Robbie Brady can put a shift in at left-back but as a natural winger, he can be caught out positionally when fielded further back.
Debutant Alan Judge had a quiet first half but nearly ended it with a goal.
Within minutes, Doyle had reminded O’Neill of what he is about, challenging Michael Lang for a high ball.
The tempo slowed considerably after the break as both teams were perhaps chastened by the injury to Doyle, and Ireland were happy to let the Swiss retain the ball in less risky areas of the field.
He was replaced by Daryl Murphy as applause rung around the ground.
VIDEO: Is there anything funnier than someone getting smashed in the face? He really should have scored. “One or two players, I thought, played very well, but I just wanted us to maybe be on the front foot a wee bit more”. Dzemaili threaded the ball through to Embolo but he dragged his shot wide under pressure from Clark.
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Others were also unhappy with the remark.
