Ireland qualified for a major tournament for the first time in 10 years yesterday, drawing 1-1 with Estonia to clinch a place at next year's European Championship.

Already leading 4-0 after last week's first playoff match, Ireland eased even further ahead in the 32nd minute of the second leg when Stephen Ward smashed in a rebound after Estonia goalkeeper Pavel Londak spilled the midfielder's initial header.

Estonia salvaged some pride in the 57th when Ireland keeper Shay Given let a long-range shot by visiting captain Konstantin Vassiljev slip through his hands, but the home side advanced 5-1 on aggregate.

Ireland could have won by more but Robbie Keane shot past the post from close range in the first half.