Seamus Coleman reckons Ireland must take advantage of their win over Georgia against Moldova

Republic of Ireland captain Seamus Coleman believes the team has to build on their good fortune against Georgia when they travel to Chisinau.

Martin O'Neill's side take on Group D's bottom nation Moldova on Sunday in their latest World Cup qualifying tie.

Despite the team producing a disappointing performance on Thursday night in Dublin, Coleman's first international goal was enough to give Ireland all three points against Georgia.

But the Everton right-back believe Ireland can build on the result to keep in touch with the leading pack in the group.

Wales, Serbia and Austria are all on the same points tally of four after the opening two games, and sit above Ireland on goal difference.

Coleman said: "We can go over to Moldova on a bit of a buzz, but had we not got the result it would have been disappointing.

"It's all about getting points on the board. I know for the fans and the media, you'd like us to do better and it was a disappointing performance, but the three points (are what matter)."

Coleman enjoyed his rare status as a match-winner while winning his 40th cap, and when asked if he felt an added responsibility to spark his team into life as captain, he said: "Not necessarily. I get asked that question a lot, but I try not to change and just do my job.

"I felt at that time I could get past the full-back, which I did. I got a little bit of luck at the end that I probably deserved for the run I made and thankfully I got my first international goal."

Jeff Hendrick will be suspended for the Moldova game after earning a second booking of the campaign, while winger Robbie Brady is unlikely to be involved after being knocked unconscious in a clash of heads against Georgia.

But Coleman is confident manager O'Neill will inspire his squad in the absence of two key performers.

Coleman said: "They're big players, but that's the manager's job to get players in. It's up to players to prove why they're in the squad with a performance."

International Football: FIFA World Cup 2018 Qualifiers