YOU MIGHT HAVE noticed Ireland have a game today that’s rather important.
Therefore, to celebrate this upcoming occasion, we’ve compiled a list of their most memorable goals over the past few years, scored by some of the finest players to ever wear the Irish side and Glenn Whelan…
Ronnie Whelan v USSR (Euro 88)
Arguably the greatest Irish goal ever, Whelan’s effort encapsulated Ireland’s daring approach that day against USSR – one of the best sides in the world at the time.
YouTube credit: CuChoileain
Alan McLoughlin v Northern Ireland (World Cup qualifier 1993)
A crucial goal, which was particularly well-taken given the circumstances. Jack Charlton’s men needed something special to break down a stubborn Northern Irish defence, and Alan McLoughlin duly obliged with this superb strike.
YouTube credit: CuChoileain
John Sheridan v Bolivia (Friendly 1994)
Sheridan had a habit of scoring screamers over the course of his career, and this effort was probably the pick of his goals for Ireland – a memorable goal to light up a less-than-memorable occasion.
YouTube credit: EastTerracer
Ray Houghton v Italy (World Cup 94)
Did Houghton perceptively spot Pagliuca off his line and consequently produce an inch-perfect chip that paved the way for what was arguably Ireland’s best-ever victory? Or was it simply a hopeful effort that miraculously found the back of the net? Let’s go with the former.
YouTube credit: weeric
Ian Harte v Cyprus (World Cup qualifier 2001)
Harte was another prolific scorer of spectacular goals and his finest effort came during a routine victory against Cyprus. It’s almost good enough to banish memories of a certain other game against Cyprus.
YouTube credit: sp1873
Glenn Whelan v Italy (World Cup qualifier 2009)
Glenn Whelan may not be everyone’s favourite player, however more strikes like the one below will undoubtedly help endear him to the Irish public.
YouTube credit: dinadangdong
Every decent goal in the 2008/2009 season
Although Trapattoni is often criticised for promoting a negative style of football, his tenure hasn’t be all bad, as these goals demonstrate.
YouTube credit: bcmediaTV
