Republic of Ireland striker Shane Long feels his late goal against Poland could prove vital in a hugely competitive Euro2016 qualifying group.
Substitute Long scored from a Wes Hoolahan knockdown at a corner to rescue a point for his side in the injury time of their Group D clash in Dublin.
The draw kept Ireland in touching distance with group leaders Poland who are currently sitting on 11 points, three ahead of Martin O'Neill's side, while both Germany and Scotland have 10 points from an equal number of games.
"I think in the first 45 minutes Poland were brilliant and it took us a while to get into them. The gaffer changed the shape and from then on we were in the game," Southampton's Long said on Sky Sports 5.
"We would have been disappointed not to get a draw, we could have got the win.
"It could be a massive point at the end of the campaign. Losing three points is massive so to keep them within touching distance is big.
"I think we need to be winning our home games, we need make it a fortress, but the main thing is not to lose.
"We will take the draw."
