Sport

Nathan Collins wonder goal hands Ireland a draw with Ukraine

Nathan Collins wonder goal hands Ireland a draw with Ukraine

A largely inexperienced Ireland side performed more than admirably at the LKS Stadium, as they held Ukraine to a 1-1 draw.

Stephen Kenny, who needed a continuation from the side's fine performance against Scotland, will feel much vindication in his international vision.

Dara O’Shea, Josh Cullen, Jason Knight and Nathan Collins all supplying impressive performances, with the latter supplying a goal for the ages.

Advertisement

The 21-year-old Burnley centre-half weaved his way through three defenders before firing past stranded goalkeeper Dmytro Riznyk.

Advertisement

It was a goal that was well deserved, as Kenny's men held their own in front of 10,641 in the Polish city of Lodz.

Advertisement

Kenny was forced into changes at the back and front, with John Egan, Shane Duffy and Michael Obafemi unavailable.

This meant starts for O’Shea, Darragh Lenihan - who made his competitive debut - and, for the first time since September 2019, Scott Hogan.

Kenny was extremely proud of the performance: "I thought the attitude of the players was terrific," he said.

"They really gave everything of themselves.

"The back three were really excellent - having never played together before.

"It was relatively inexperienced, but they gave us a good platform to perform."

Advertisement