Parrott shines but Ireland held to draw by Austria
Troy Parrott scored a stunning solo goal and a penalty, but Austria fought back to deny Ireland victory in Dublin.
Troy Parrott produced a moment of individual brilliance to help the Republic of Ireland into a two-goal lead against Austria in their UEFA Nations League clash at the Aviva Stadium on Thursday, only for the visitors to fight back and earn a 2-2 draw. The result leaves Ireland frustrated after a commanding first-half display.
Parrott's first goal was a solo effort that began around 20 yards from goal. After receiving the ball from Adam Idah, he hesitated briefly, gestured for support, then embarked on a run that took him past Philipp Lienhart with a nutmeg, around David Affengruber, and through the legs of goalkeeper Florian Wiegele. The finish capped a move that left teammate Jack Moylan and many in the stands in disbelief, with Moylan standing hands on head but smiling broadly.
Ireland manager Heimir Hallgrimsson described the goal as "magical" and predicted it would be replayed for years. "There aren't many players that can do what he did," Hallgrimsson said. Parrott then doubled the lead with a penalty on the stroke of half-time, taking his international tally to 14 goals in 40 caps, with nine in his last six competitive games.
However, Austria responded after Parrott was substituted on 75 minutes, scoring twice to salvage a point. Hallgrimsson defended the decision to withdraw the striker, who was on a hat-trick, citing tiredness and knocks, and stressed the need to keep him fresh for Sunday's game against Israel in Serbia. "We need him in three days," the manager explained.
The draw tainted an otherwise excellent personal night for Parrott, who has also impressed at club level with Real Betis. Ireland now turn their attention to the rematch with Israel, knowing a win would move them to seven points and boost their chances of a second-place finish and a pot two seeding for the Euro 2028 qualifying draw. Hallgrimsson also praised Parrott's defensive work rate, calling his presence in the green shirt magical for Irish football.
Image: Getty Images / BBC Sport
