Troy Parrott’s first international goals spared the Republic of Ireland’s blushes as they came from behind in Andorra to finally hand manager Stephen Kenny victory at the 12th attempt. Parrott’s timing could hardly have been better with Ireland facing humiliation in the tiny Pyrenean principality less than three months after their 1-0 World Cup qualifier defeat by Luxembourg. Kenny’s men returned knowing they would have to be significantly better if they were to avoid another embarrassing chapter in their recent history. But they were stunned within seven minutes of the restart when defender Vales climbed unopposed to head Alex Martinez’s free-kick past the helpless Bazunu to give Andorra the lead. However, Knight converted Horgan’s 84th-minute cross and then returned the favour with seconds remaining as the pair both registered for the first time for their country to make it 4-1.

Source: Express June 03, 2021 18:00 UTC