Ross Tierney came off the bench to head the Republic of Ireland’s Under-21s to a 2-1 victory over Australia’s Olympic squad in a dream debut.
The 20-year-old Bohemians midfielder was a late call-up to Ireland’s training camp in Marbella after club-mate Dawson Devoy had to withdraw through injury, but made the most of his chance.
Manager Jim Crawford said: “Ross could have probably felt hard done by being left out of the initial squad, but he’s come here and he didn’t really train yesterday because he flew over.
“But what an impact he made there. It’s a goal he’ll remember for the rest of his life. I’m delighted for him.”
Jay Rich-Baghuelou’s 57th-minute own goal had given Ireland the lead against the Australian Under-23s side, who dragged themselves back into the game through Ramy Najjarine’s equaliser 15 minutes later.
But Tierney, who had replaced Luca Connell with three minutes remaining, headed home fellow substitute Tyriek Wright’s cross at the death to win it.
