- Luke Jordan
- Thu, Mar 23 2023
A second half goal from Chiedozie Ogbene was enough to seal a 3-2 victory for Stephen Kenny’s Ireland team.
Below are how the Irish players performed Wednesday night in the Aviva Stadium.
1 . Caoimhin Kelleher – 5
The Cork man had little to do in truth throughout the game, however, the Liverpool stopper will be disappointed with how he conceded the Latvian second goal. Possibly signs of ring rust, a transfer is needed in the summer to get regular game time.
2 . Nathan Collins – 7
Played in the middle of the back three. Won his battles and duels during the game, and on occasions was able to step into midfield with his long strides. Made an important block at the death to ensure Ireland came away with a victory.
3 . Andrew Omobamidele – 6
A great sight to see on Wednesday night with the Norwich man back in the Irish side. His usually composed self on the ball but was never tested by the Latvian attack. Replaced at 63 minutes by John Egan.
4 . Dara O’Shea – 6
Decent showing from the West Brom defender, calm and composed on the ball. Although, he could have done better for the Latvian second goal.
5. Matt Doherty – 6
Mixed game for the stand in skipper. Had a hand in both goals but some sloppy errors in possession. Another player who is not match sharp having only played twelve minutes for Atletico Madrid. Big decision for Kenny against France.
6. Callum O’Dowda – 6
One of Stephen Kenny’s biggest calls having picked O’Dowda ahead of Robbie Brady and Ryan Manning in the squad. Got his first international goal with a great header. Good all-round performance and looked a threat on the left-hand side. Replaced my James McClean late on.
7. Alan Browne – 6
Decent showing by the Preston skipper. Had an opportunity to play in Ferguson in first half but went himself and squandered the opportunity. Got around the park but didn’t offer control in the middle of the pitch.
8 . Jayson Molumby – 8
Another brilliant shift from the Waterford man. His energy in the midfield is infectious and two of Ireland’s goals came from him winning tackles. A guaranteed starter for Ireland going forward alongside Josh Cullen in the Irish midfield.
9. Will Smalllbone – 9
He may have gone under the radar before the match due to the hype about another player, but Smallbone added a touch of class to the Irish midfield. Some fantastic touches, clever movement off the ball and assist for the Irish opener was a great introduction to the Irish fans. Food for thought for Stephen Kenny when picking his team for next week.
10. Michael Obafemi – 6
A clever pass to keep alive Doherty’s cross created Ireland’s second goal. Showed again glimpses as to why he has become an important player for Stephen Kenny. Could have scored himself. Replaced by Johnston in the 63rd minute.
11. Evan Ferguson – 8
First start for Ireland, first goal for Ireland. It was inevitable right? At such a young age, he plays like a player beyond his years. Dropped in at times to get on the ball, displaying his intelligence on the ball. A must start going forward.
Substitutes
12. Mikey Johnston – 7
Looks a talent. Injuries has derailed the winger’s career to date, but tonight we saw why there was such hype about the young man a few years. Almost scored twice tonight. A player who will excite Irish fans. Hopefully more to come.
13. Chiedozie Ogbene – 7
Did exactly want he was meant to do when he came on, make an immediate impact. Scored the winner, and when on the ball looked to take the game to Latvia. Unsure as to why he is no longer a starter for Ireland.
14. John Egan – 6
His usual solid self when introduced after 63 minutes. Will start on Monday night.
15. James McClean – 5
Not on long enough to rate.
Manager: Stephen Kenny – 6
Needs to address this pattern of allowing inferior sides back into games. Got the substitutions right as the game had gone flat in the second half. Big game on the horizon as the French come to town.
