Conor Hourihane named man of the match in Republic of Ireland win

BANDON’S Conor Hourihane was named the man of the match as the Republic of Ireland kicked off their Euro 2020 qualifying campaign with a 1-0 win away against Gibraltar.

The West Cork man’s performance was one of the positives for Mick McCarthy’s men as Hourihane's delivery from set-pieces and his general distribution was impressive. He was also involved in the build-up to Ireland’s goal scored by Jeff Hendrick.

Hourihane told RTE afterwards: 'We are just delighted with the three points. There was a strong wind out there. Playing on astro levels it out a little bit.

'It's a new capaign, a fresh start, I felt I've been playing well this season, I'm delighted with the gaffer to give me the chance tonight.' 

Hopefully this will signal the start of a consistent run in the Ireland midfield for the Aston Villa club man who has struggled to show his club form at international level – but we saw this evening how much of an asset Hourihane can be for Ireland.