The Republic of Ireland picked up a 2-0 win over Portugal on Thursday evening in a stylish performance.
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Cristiano Ronaldo was the headline maker as Portugal were handed a surprise defeat by the Republic of Ireland on Thursday night but some familiar Premier League names were on the receiving end of big praise for their efforts in the match.
The Manchester United legend was sent off for the first time in international football as Portugal fell to a 2-0 defeat at the Aviva Stadium, missing out on the chance to secure World Cup qualification. Ronaldo was shown a yellow card for an elbow on Dara O’Shea, which was then upgraded to a red after a VAR intervention.
The forward’s first red card in 226 Portugal appearances turned heads but so too did ex Tottenham Hotspur striker Troy Parrott and Brentford duo Caoimhín Kelleher and Nathan Collins.
Ex Tottenham Hotspur striker on target against Portugal
Parrott stepped up to fill the boots of injured Evan Ferguson and did so in style, continuing the form that has seen him score 13 goals in 14 games for AZ Alkmaar this season. The forward bagged a first half brace to help his nation to the win.
Rating the player a 9/10 for his performance, Balls.ie wrote: “Parrott looked lively in possession in the opening exchanges, creating real problems for Portugal. He was rewarded for that bright start with the game’s opening goal. His second goal was even better, producing a stunning solo effort to double Ireland's lead. A real coming of age performance.”
It may be somewhat painful for Tottenham Hotspur fans to see their former man in such fine form. Thomas Frank’s side are currently dealing with injuries to Randal Kolo Muani and Dominic Solanke, with Richarlison struggling for form in front of goal.
Brentford duo praised by Irish media
A product of the Spurs academy, Parrott only made four senior appearances for the club and was sent on loan spells to Millwall, Ipswich Town, MK Dons, Preston North End and Excelsior during his time with Tottenham Hotspur.
The Republic of Ireland were solid at the back too with Brentford duo Kelleher and Collins starring. The shot-stopper’s best moment came when producing a strong save to deny Goncalo Ramos. Balls.ie awarded the goalkeeper a 7/10 and wrote: “The Brentford man was largely untested in the first half, making a couple of routine saves from tame Portugal shots. Kelleher's long kick out of the hand were also a dangerous weapon, setting up a number of Irish attacks. Made one impressive save towards the end to maintain Ireland's lead.”
Meanwhile, Collins was also handed a 7/10 and praised for his ‘key role’ in marshalling the Irish defence and for producing ‘big blocks’.
In other news, Tottenham handed international injury blow as 'fantastic' player risks missing Arsenal.