Italy coach Marcello Lippi was furious with the match officials after their 1-1 draw with World Cup qualifying opponents Ireland last night.

Sampdoria striker Giampaolo Pazzini was sent off after just four minutes for elbowing Manchester United defender John O'Shea.

"We always complain about our referees, but they should see the ones abroad," snapped Lippi. "We spent 90 minutes in 10 men for an interpretation of violent conduct that everyone saw was clearly unfair.

"It is not right to be reduced to 10 men for such a silly incident. We are at international level here."

Italy still took the lead through Vincenzo Iaquinta 10 minutes in and held out until the final moments when Robbie Keane equalised for the Republic.

"We fought and closed up and did everything we could. It's a shame the goal came so late, but the real shame is having to play an entire match with 10 men because of a referee like this."

The result means Italy are still two points clear of Ireland at the top of World Cup qualifying Group 8.