THERE WERE DEBUTS for Ireland internationals Jamie McGrath and Jeff Hendrick today – with McGrath producing a superb display for Wigan after his big move south from St Mirren.
However, Josh Maja and Jacob Brown scored as Stoke progressed to the FA Cup fifth round with a 2-0 win that ended Wigan’s 20-match unbeaten run.
The Potters early dominance was soon rewarded when debutant Maja – signed on loan from Bordeaux in midweek – secured a dream start to his Stoke career.
After a slip from Latics’ defender Jason Kerr, the Nigeria international had all the time in the world to compose himself and convert past Jones into the far corner.
Wigan, buoyed by a 4,000-strong away support, threatened an immediate equaliser, with a speculative effort from range by Max Power whistling narrowly wide of the target.
McGrath’s replacement at St Mirren – Irish Under 21 international Connor Ronan – eased their relegation worries and added to Hibernian’s woes after scoring the only goal in a narrow 1-0 cinch Premiership victory at Easter Road.
The on-loan Wolves midfielder pounced on a mistake from Jake Doyle-Hayes in the 62nd minute before firing a fierce drive beyond Kevin Dabrowski.
The victory moves Saints 11 points clear of bottom side Dundee and only within one of the top six.
Elsewhere, there was a debut for Ireland Under 19 left back Tayo Adaramola.
Ireland under-19 left-back Tayo Adaramola in action for Crystal Palace this afternoon 🇮🇪⚽️😍
— Kenny's Kids (@KennysKids) February 5, 2022
The pacey 18-year-old came on in the 86th minute of their 2-0 victory over Hartlepool United 👏#COYBIG pic.twitter.com/vZcwirWBWb
In other news, Ronan Curtis scored for Portsmouth this afternoon – with Aiden O’Brien making his debut for the club. Meanwhile at MK Dons, Warren O’Hora scored – assisted by Dubliner Troy Parrott while former Ireland international, Anthony Pilkington, scored for Fleetwood.
