Niall Quinn says the Republic of Ireland are starting to believe World Cup qualification is possible after their victory over Austria helped them maintain their unbeaten start. The odds of reaching the 2018 tournament in Russia were stacked against Ireland when they were drawn in a group alongside Wales, Serbia and Austria.However, Irelands 1-0 victory in Vienna on Saturday sent them top of Group D, having secured 10 points from their opening four games. And while Quinn admits that Irelands start has come as a shock, he said Martin ONeills ability to get the best out of his players is the reason why they are in such a strong position.It has taken me by surprise because its a really tough group, Quinn said. Even Serbia look good and suddenly theres four teams in it so its going to be difficult. Republic of Ireland manager Martin ONeill was proud of his players as they became the first away team to beat Austria in a competitive match in Vienna in But ONeill has got a clique going on now. They all believe and the motivation he has brought into that side, and the way that theyre bringing it out in performances, means were starting to believe ourselves.I honestly think fans are of the opinion that the perfect man is managing this team, and that theres another trip on its way in two summers time.Irelands victory over Austria was their first since 1963, and they had James McClean to thank after the West Brom winger netted in the second half. Highlights of the Republic of Irelands World Cup qualifier against Austria. McClean is viewed as a divisive figure - predominantly down to his decision not wear a poppy around Remembrance Day - but Quinn believes the 27-year-old has matured as both a man and a player.James wasnt afraid to come out and say we have to kick on and win the group now, others would just be cautious, said Quinn.Hes as honest as you like, people might disagree with his political principles, but the lad gives absolutely everything hes got.Hes starting to get clever with it and understand the game more. His work-rate is always superb, he works so hard up and down that left side in every game he plays. Harry Arter was pleased to make his competitive debut for the Republic of Ireland and hopes for more wins following victory over Austria. Hes now reading things better, and he saw that opportunity open up as soon as [David] Meyler took the ball. What a ball from Wes [Hoolahan], but still a lot of work to do, and James is playing like a player who just wants more of that now.Quinns praise led fellow Sky Sports pundit Dean Saunders to remind the ex-Sunderland chairman of how he first brought McClean to England in 2011.I signed him in a pub, thats not to say hes a pub player - but his agent met me in a pub, Quinn added.Its one of those things, its great. To see his career develop and blossom, hes had a few bumps to try and get over - but its going well for him.Theres no better feeling. To think that hes gone away to Austria tonight and has scored the winner for his country in such a big game, thats fantastic for him. Also See: Austria 0-1 Rep Ireland As it happened Rep Ireland fixtures Table Custom Colorado Avalanche Jerseys . Tevez, who has had conflicts with coaches in the past, has not been called up since Sabella was named coach in 2011. 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SEATTLE -- Kelsey Plum scored 30 points, freshman Aarion McDonald had 23 in her first start and No. 11 Washington rolled to a 101-44 win over Cal State Northridge on Wednesday night.Plum, the nations leading scorer at 29.7 points a game, made 10 of 15 shots with four 3-pointers as the Huskies (9-1) hit 100 points for the fifth time, matching the 1981-82 team for the most in a season. She had 20 points in the first half when the Huskies (7-1) opened a 49-15 lead. She needs 23 points to break Chiney Ogwumikes Pac 12 record of 2,737.McDonald -- who had six points in each of her firsst two games -- went 9 of 11 from the field with three 3s.dddddddddddd Washington made 13 of 17 shots, 5 of 7 behind the arc in the third quarter and increased its lead to 82-25.Chantel Osahor, the nations leading rebounder at 14.9, had her ninth-straight double-double with 10 points and 20 rebounds for the Huskies, just a game after setting her career high of 22.Serafina Maulupe led Northridge (4-5), which shot 23.5 percent (16 for 68) with 15 points. ' ' '