After a difficult opening twenty minute period, in which Italy dominated possession, Ireland settled into the game.
The central midfield partnership of Jeff Hendrick and David Meyler began to work well together, while Wes Hoolahan was his usual creative self.
Overall, it was Ireland who created the greater share of chances, with Gortnahoe's Shane Long lacking incisiveness in front of goal, while Stephen Quinn saw his late shot crash back off the underside of the bar.
Meanwhile, Ireland boss Martin O'Neill expects to find out whether he's losing Roy Keane to Celtic by Wednesday.
His assistant has held informal talks with the Scottish champions about succeeding Neil Lennon as manager.
O'Neill says he's not spoken to Keane about the Celtic job over the last few days.
