Collins named star man but Ireland's goal drought continues with Bulgaria draw

Luton striker James Collins won his sixth cap and was named man of the match for the Republic of Ireland in their Nations League goalless draw with Bulgaria in Dublin this evening.

The 29-year-old was starting only his third international and his first since being recalled by boss Stephen Kenny, as although his side avoided relegation from Nations League B, it was an eighth game without a win under the new manager, while they have now gone seven matches without a goal.

Early on, the hosts were almost caught in possession twice and had a let-off when Galin Ivanov's heavy touch allowed keeper Darren Randolph to gather.

Centre-back Kristian Dimitrov saw his header land on the roof of Randolph's net, before Collins had the best chance for his side, heading over following impressive work by Daryl Horgan.

Collins, whose only international goal came in a friendly win over Bulgaria last year, missed two further opportunities after the break, heading Dara O'Shea's cross over the bar before hooking a first-time volley into the side-netting, as he once again he had the majority of his side's attempts, with three of the seven off target shots.

The Republic fashioned another fine chance after the break, Ronan Curtis stabbing over on 55 minutes after Jason Knight's driving run and pass.

Moments later, Randolph almost gifted a goal to Bulgaria, but the keeper recovered in the nick of time, while Robbie Brady saw his left-footed piledriver hammer against the crossbar.

Late on, Collins was replaced by Sean Maguire, but there was to be no breakthrough as it ended goalless.