How four Everton and Brentford stars performed in Ireland’s World Cup qualifying clash
Keith Andrews and David Moyes may have taken an interest in Ireland’s World Cup qualifying fixture against Hungary, with two of their stars starting the contest.
Ireland’s stunning 2-0 victory over Portugal had put the race for second place in the World Cup qualifying group down to the final matchday.
Troy Parrott had gained the attention of Premier League club’s following his performance against Portugal, and the striker was on the score sheet again with a hat-trick.
Below though are how Brentford and Everton stars fared in the crucial game at the Puskas Arena.
Caoimhin Kelleher
The Brentford shot stopper conceded within the opening four minutes of the game, but the 26-year-old could do little to stop Daniel Lukacs’ close-range header.
Made a fine reaction save at 1-1 to deny Roland Sallai before he was left with no chance when Barnabas Varga volleyed into the roof of the net.
Kelleher’s move from Liverpool to Brentford though looks vindicated, with the goalkeeper now a key figure in the Ireland set up.
Nathan Collins
In the heart of the Ireland defence, Nathan Collins had an important role ensuring his back five would be tough to break down.
Collins has got admirers from Spurs and Liverpool, who are sure to have watched this match with interest over how the 24-year-old would deal with an intense contest.
The Irish though were on the back foot immediately having conceded early, though Collins put in a strong individual performance.
| Minutes Played | 90 |
| Duels Won % | 67% |
| Aerial Duels Won % | 60% |
| Clearances | 7 |
| Interceptions | 2 |
Jake O’Brien
It was a tough match for Jake O’Brien against a Hungary side keen to be on the front foot for much of the contest.
O’Brien was substituted at half-time, having won zero ground duels and just one aerial duels during his time on the pitch.
The 24-year-old also missed one big chance in the first half to draw Ireland level, in one of few chances the visitors had.
Seamus Coleman
Seamus Coleman had an exceptional game for the Irish against Portugal, but the 37-year-old struggled to have much attacking influence at right wing-back here.
Coleman had just 27 touches of the ball, as Liverpool‘s Milos Kerkez got the better of the Everton icon.
The Toffees defender was substituted with 30 minutes remaining, with 23-year-old Festy Ebosele preferred to add greater attacking threat down the flank.