The Republic of Ireland MNT claimed a 4-1 win over Andorra to give Stephen Kenny his first win as Ireland manager this evening.

After falling behind to a goal from Valez after 52 minutes, the visitors were able to wrestle control of the game thanks to a sublime, quickfire brace from Troy Parrott, before late Jason Knight and Darryl Horgan goals sealed the victory.

The opening period was largely dull, with the best chance falling to James Collins, who got on the end of a cross, but somehow couldn’t direct his glancing header on target from six yards.

Ireland were rocked when Valez found himself in acres of space to nod home a free-kick after 52 minutes. 

That goal appeared to shock Ireland into life, and less than six minutes later they were level. Man of the match Troy Parrot picked the ball up in space 40 yards from goals, and made a surging run before slotting the ball into the bottom corner.

Seconds after the restart, Troy almost went from scorer to provider as he left the ball on a plate for Ronan Curtis to score, but he could only blast it wide from close range. 

If Curtis was worried that his miss might cost Ireland the win, his fears were allayed less than three minutes later, when Parrot jumped highest to head in a cross from Hourihane, doubling his and Ireland’s tally.

The pace of the game died down considerably thereafter as the hosts grew tired and both sides emptied their benches.

However as Andorra flattened, more chances began to appear and Ireland took full advantage.  Darryl Horgan whipped in an inviting cross which Jason Knight turned home to put the result beyond doubt seven minutes from time. As injury-time beckoned, the pair switched roles as Knight’s cross found Horgan, who finished for his first international goal. 

There were some positive notes from an Ireland point of view, such as good displays from Parrot but getting a win was the main objective. Ireland will hope this victory boosts their confidence and they can build on this win from here.