Sheffield United striker grabs his first goal for Republic of Ireland in friendly victory

It took 11 games, but a Sheffield United forward notched up a first ever goal for his country on Thursday night.
By Chris Holt
Published 14th Nov 2019, 22:29 BST
Updated 14th Nov 2019, 22:31 BST
Republic of Ireland's Callum Robinson (right) celebrates scoring his side's third goal of the game during the International Friendly at the Aviva Stadium, Dublin. Brian Lawless/PA Wire.Republic of Ireland's Callum Robinson (right) celebrates scoring his side's third goal of the game during the International Friendly at the Aviva Stadium, Dublin. Brian Lawless/PA Wire.
Republic of Ireland's Callum Robinson (right) celebrates scoring his side's third goal of the game during the International Friendly at the Aviva Stadium, Dublin. Brian Lawless/PA Wire.

Callum Robinson came off the bench to score the third in a 3-1 friendly victory for the Republic of Ireland against New Zealand in Dublin.

The Blades frontman headed in 19-year-old debutant Lee O'Connor’s cross with 15 minutes remaining to wrap up a morale-boosting win for Mick McCarthy’s men ahead of a more important challenge on Monday night.

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Robinson was the only one of United’s four Irishmen to get any time on the pitch, as McCarthy fielded an inexperienced side in preparation for their crucial Euro 2020 qualifier with Denmark.

Republic of Ireland's Callum Robinson celebrates scoring his side's third goal of the game during the International Friendly at the Aviva Stadium, Dublin. Brian Lawless/PA Wire.Republic of Ireland's Callum Robinson celebrates scoring his side's third goal of the game during the International Friendly at the Aviva Stadium, Dublin. Brian Lawless/PA Wire.
Republic of Ireland's Callum Robinson celebrates scoring his side's third goal of the game during the International Friendly at the Aviva Stadium, Dublin. Brian Lawless/PA Wire.
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Enda Stevens and John Egan were both unused substitutes, while David McGoldrick was left out altogether to ensure the Blades forward was well-rested for Monday’s match at the Aviva Stadium, where a win for the Republic will seal qualification.

Blackburn defender Derrick Williams headed Ireland level against New Zealand after Callum McCowatt had given the visitors the lead, and Preston striker Sean Maguire and Robinson struck after the break as they eased across the finishing line.

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Related topics:Republic of IrelandNew ZealandBladesDavid McGoldrickMick McCarthy