The Republic of Ireland earned some redemption this evening, with a 3-1 victory over Uruguay to recover from their dismal performance against Mexico.
Captain Jon Walters, Cyrus Christie and James McClean were all on target, as Martin O'Neill's turn their attentions to a crucial World Cup qualifier against Austria.
The home side dominated for much of the encounter and Walters' goal just before the half-hour mark was a just reward for Ireland's efforts.
WATCH!
Here's the excellent Jon Walters goal that has @FAIreland 1-0 up vs Uruguay! #COYBIG pic.twitter.com/aipviFLh59— eirSport (@eirSport) June 4, 2017
There was a moment of indecision between Walters and Glenn Whelan before the captain claimed possession on the edge of the penalty area and angled his shot into the net.
Uruguay struck back just before half-time however.
WATCH:
Here's that Uruguay goal that's made it 1-1 vs @FAIreland. #COYBIG pic.twitter.com/UVUStU14BO— eirSport (@eirSport) June 4, 2017
Goalkeeper Darren Randolph jumped off his line to contest a free-kick but Uruguay's Jose Gimenez met the ball with a header first which found its way into the net.
51! GOAL!@FAIreland 2-1 Uruguay!
Cyrus Christie puts Ireland back in front! #COYBIG pic.twitter.com/BI6ggXqVmO— eirSport (@eirSport) June 4, 2017
Ireland recovered after the restart, and Derby's Cyrus Christie restored their one goal lead on 50 minutes. After collecting the ball near the edge of the box, he executed a step-over before sweeping the ball home with his left boot.
Substitute James McClean secured Ireland's victory inside the closing quarter of an hour. A nicely weighted pass from Daryl Murphy sent McClean through in a race for possession.
76: GOAL!!@FAIreland 3-1 Uruguay.
James McClean with a brilliant effort minutes after coming on! #COYBIG pic.twitter.com/S6bzrgmpVN— eirSport (@eirSport) June 4, 2017
After edging out that battle, McClean raced towards goal and crashed the ball into the bottom corner.
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