The friendly sorely missed the Tottenham winger's mix of pace, power and skill during a game light on entertainment and quality.
The visitors enjoyed the better of the contest and created the better of what chances there were, with Shane Long failing to convert two great opportunities while Robbie Brady also went close.
Craig Bellamy's second-half free-kick was as close as toothless Wales came, with Ben Davies failing to make the most of their best chance right on half-time.
The build-up to the game had been dominated by Bale and whether the Tottenham winger will complete a world record move to Real Madrid.
He sat on the bench in his suit and tie having been ruled out by a foot injury, and Coleman is hopeful of having a fit and settled player to select for next month's World Cup qualifiers.
Coleman said: "This week has not really been about Wales and Ireland, to be honest. It's been about is he going or he is staying, is he playing?
"I can't grumble because he's a great player. Only special players get that type of publicity and interest - and he plays for us.
"I'll take the rough with the smooth all day long.
"It'd be nice for the next game if he is fit and settled somewhere. We hope and pray that happens."
Source: PA
Source: PA