Tommy Lonergan scored two goals to help the Republic of Ireland Under-21s secure a vital 3-1 win over England in European Championship qualifying. The Waterford forward's brace at Turner's Cross on Tuesday overturned an early deficit and ended England's 12-game unbeaten streak, propelling Ireland into the play-offs.
Lonergan, who has nine goals in 35 appearances for his club this season, equalised in the 22nd minute. He finished a move involving Jacob Devaney and Rory Finneran after Tyler Dibling had put England ahead in the eighth minute. Conor McManus, formerly of Bray Wanderers, then put Ireland in front before half-time, capitalising on a turnover and combining with Trent Kone-Doherty.
How the tie turned
The decisive third goal arrived in the 63rd minute. A long throw from captain Seán Grehan caused chaos in the England box, and Lonergan was quickest to react, poking the ball home for his fourth goal in three games during this international window. Ireland's high-pressing approach was key, with all three goals stemming from winning possession in advanced areas.
Goalkeeper Noah Jauny made several important saves to protect the lead, including a late stop to deny Tyreik George, while England's William Lankshear hit the post in the final 20 minutes. The victory was a remarkable turnaround for Jim Crawford's side, who had lost 4-0 to Andorra and drawn with Moldova in March. They have since won four consecutive matches to secure a play-off spot.
Crawford praised his squad's character after the game. He said the players had worked exceptionally hard since the Andorra defeat, taking on board the coaching staff's information to produce an outstanding performance against a top opponent. The manager highlighted their resilience in coming back from a goal down.
For Waterford, Lonergan's influential display on the international stage is a major boost ahead of their next Premier Division fixture. The Blues, currently eighth with 34 points from 32 games, host seventh-placed Galway United this Friday. Fans can check the full schedule on our fixtures page and see how the squad is shaping up via our squad list. The result leaves Ireland's Under-21s waiting to discover their play-off opponents, with the draw set to be made later this month.
First reported at fai.ie
