Ruthless Germany deserved 6-1 win, says Loew

Germany coach Joachim Loew believes his side’s 6-1 win over Republic of Ireland in Dublin was no less than they deserved on the night.

The Euro 2012 semi-finalists cruised to an easy victory, with a brace each from Marco Reus and Toni Kroos, as well as strikes from Miroslav Klose and Mesut Oezil ensuring the result.

The result sees Germany maintain a perfect record of three wins to start their qualification campaign for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, with the resounding victory coming despite suggestions of disharmony within the German ranks over the last few months since they failed to make the Euro 2012 final.

Loew, though, felt his side had put all that behind them heading into Friday’s clash with Ireland.

“The team was focused from the beginning – that was noticeable throughout the whole week in training,” he told reporters after the match.

“When he had the ball, we played it forward quickly and found the right balance and we deserved to win by this margin.”

German team manager Oliver Bierhoff said he had been somewhat surprised by Ireland’s lack of fight on their home patch.

“We expected them to be a little bit stronger,” Bierhoff told Goal.com.

“We played very focused. We have talented players with a lot of technique and other skills but the Irish team was a little bit disappointing.”

And it was an opinion shared by Loew.

“The opponents were unimaginative, playing long balls forward without any real pressure,” he said.

“We were much better organised defensively than in recent games.”

Klose scored after a week of criticism from the likes of Bayern Munich president Uli Hoeness, but insisted that his only focus was helping his side to improve on poor showings against Austria and Faroe Islands.

“I think that the first two games were very difficult, but if we prepare for a game properly like today, we can come out with a result,” the Lazio man said.

“It was nice to contribute to the win with a goal on my 125th cap. But I have no comment for Uli Hoeness’ criticism.

“Much has been written, but it’s best for me to keep my mouth shut and concentrate on football.”