How Wolves and West Brom players got on with Republic of Ireland on international duty

The Republic of Ireland ran out 3-2 victors against Latvia in their first fixture of the March international break, with men from West Midlands clubs Wolverhampton Wanderers and West Bromwich Albion both featuring. It was a tight friendly encounter between the two nations as Latvia came back from 2-0 down to equalise but were beaten in the end.

Cardiff City winger Callum O’Dowda opened the scoring in the sixth minute before Brighton & Hove Albion striker Evan Ferguson netted 17 minutes into his senior debut to make it 2-0. Latvia got two back through Roberts Uldrikis and Arturs Zjuzins before half time, but Rotherham United wide man Chiedozie Ogbene netted a winner just beyond the hour mark.

Playing a back three, Ireland had Nathan Collins of Wolves and Dara O’Shea of West Brom among the trio of centre backs and, although two goals were conceded, Latvia were held to just six shots all night. Three of these were on target, causing issues for goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher, but Ireland did well to control proceedings.

Much of the domination came through The Boys in Green’s possession play, with Baggies midfielder Jayson Molumby sitting in the heart of the team. Ireland registered 70% possession and were able to craft plenty of opportunities, leading to 18 shots and six on target. Molumby was one of the most creative players on the night, showing off what he’s done so often for West Brom.

Ireland will be hoping to carry on momentum from their victory as they take on France in a far more important game on Monday. The Boys in Green take on the World Cup finalists in the first of 10 qualifying matches for the UEFA European Championship. West Brom and Wolves’ stars will have quite the experience at the Aviva Stadium.