THE REPUBLIC OF IRELAND started superbly in their must-win World Cup qualifier against Moldova at the Aviva Stadium tonight.
They had an opening goal after just 105 seconds as Daryl Murphy continued his fine form in the Championship by steering home a near-post flick-on after Stephen Ward’s throw caused panic in the visitors’ penalty area for his second-ever international goal.
Early strike. Daryl Murphy's second goal for Ireland makes it 1-0 after a minute pic.twitter.com/rns6G12Vob
— RTÉ Soccer (@RTEsoccer) October 6, 2017
But he had his brace 18 minutes later when he sent a magnificent header to the far corner after Ward again provided the key pass, sending a lofted cross to the back post.
The Nottingham Forest striker did superbly, shifting his body position before cushioning a measured finish across the goalkeeper.
After an excellent move Daryl Murphy gets his second of the evening with a sublime finish pic.twitter.com/XqCSjFFsuc
— RTÉ Soccer (@RTEsoccer) October 6, 2017
Despite having plenty more opportunities – most notably for Shane Long – to extend their lead, the Irish failed to add to Murphy’s double and had to make do with a 2-0 victory.
Subscribe to The42 podcasts here: