Town striker David McGoldrick came on as a 78th minute sub as the Republic of Ireland beat Austria 1-0 in this evening’s World Cup qualifier in Vienna to climb to the top of their group.
West Brom’s James McClean scored the winning goal in the 48th minute to give Ireland’s hopes of reaching the 2018 finals in Russia a significant boost, which were further enhanced later in the evening when Wales and Serbia drew 1-1 in Cardiff.
McGoldrick, who was winning his fifth cap, his first in a competitive match, replaced Wes Hoolahan for the final minutes as the side led by manager Martin O’Neill and his assistant, ex-Town boss Roy Keane, saw out the final minutes.
Meanwhile, Jonny Williams and Tom Lawrence have both been named among the Wales subs for their World Cup qualifier against Serbia at the Cardiff City Stadium (Sky Sports One, KO 7.45pm).
Republic of Ireland: Randolph, Coleman, Duffy, Clark, Brady, Whelan (Meyler 22), Hendrick, Arter, Hoolahan (McGoldrick 78). McClean (McGeady 85), Walters.