The Republic of Ireland claimed their first win of their Nations League Group B3 campaign with a 3-0 victory over Israel in Debrecen, Hungary, built on a devastating first-half display.
The result came three days after a disappointing defeat in Kosovo, and Heimir Hallgrimsson’s side produced a much better showing this time, scoring three times before the break to take control of the contest.
Troy Parrott opened the scoring on 14 minutes, turning home James Abankwah’s cut-back for his 12th international goal. The lead was doubled two minutes later when Adam Idah was put through by Jack Moylan and slotted past Daniel Peretz into the corner of the net.
Ireland went three clear in the 25th minute. Moylan drove into the box and fired home his first competitive international goal, capping a rapid opening spell for the visitors.
Israel pushed for a way back early in the second period but could not get past Caoihmin Kelleher, who denied Dor Peretz and then Eliel Peretz, having earlier thwarted Anan Khalaili. Idah went close to grabbing his second goal, only for Daniel Peretz to turn his effort around the post. Ireland remained in control for the most part to ease home.
As expected, there were no handshakes prior to the game, with the Republic of Ireland players bowing their heads during the Israeli anthem. Despite the fraught build-up, Hallgrimsson’s side began with confidence and were rewarded inside the opening quarter of an hour.
Ireland now turn their attention to Austria in Dublin on Thursday, while Israel remain in Debrecen to face Kosovo.