Scotland B 1-1 Rep of Ireland B: A late Steven Howard equaliser capped an eventful second half at Airdrie that saw the Republic of Ireland Bs sharing the spoils with their Scottish hosts tonight.

Aberdeen defender Richie Byrne, who last year suffered a career threatening injury, opened the scoring in the 65th minute, but the game ended on a sour not after Howard's strike and a second yellow card for Ireland defender Jim Goodwin.

Chances were at a premium in the first half with Ireland going close when Roy O'Donovan and Noel Hunt's one-two led to the latter shooting straight at the Scottish goalkeeper.

The impressive Wes Hoolahan's cross was met by O'Donovan soon afterwards but the Sunderland man shot narrowly wide.

The homeside threatened in the 42nd minute when Ross Wallace's shot was tipped over the bar Colin Doyle.