David Alaba scored deep into added time to rescue a point for Austria in the Republic of Ireland and keep his side ahead of their hosts in FIFA World Cup qualifying Group C.

It looked as if Ireland were on course for a crucial three points in Dublin after Jon Walters scored twice to overturn Martin Harnik's early goal. However, second-half pressure from Austria finally told when Alaba struck from distance.

Austria appeared composed and confident from kick-off and it was no surprise when they took an 11th-minute lead. Zlatko Junuzovic robbed Ciaran Clark of possession and drove into the box before teeing up Harnik to toe-poke in. The hosts responded and got themselves level when Emanuel Pogatetz brought down Shane Long in the area midway through the half, Walters powerfully dispatching the penalty.

That led to a period of Irish control, which was rewarded a minute into injury time at the end of the first half when Glenn Whelan's corner was met by a stooping Walters who headed in off the back post.

Austria pushed the Republic back thereafter, György Garics going close with a cross-shot – although visiting keeper Heinz Lindner had to be at his best to tip over. Yet the flow of play was mainly directed towards the home goal and Alaba's deflected effort gave Austria a point which puts them second in the group behind Germany, level on points with both Sweden and Ireland.