Another comeback win a 'nice feeling' for Parrott
Troy Parrott of the Republic of Ireland with his player of the match award. Pic: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile
Evan Ferguson and Adam Idah goals cemented the Republic of Ireland’s 4-2 aggregate UEFA Nations League playoff victory over Bulgaria but it was Troy Parrott who took home the Sky Ireland Player of the match award at the Aviva Stadium on Sunday evening.
A second consecutive 2-1 victory saw Heimir Hallgrímsson’s side build on the momentum gained in Plodliv the previous Thursday.
Evan Ferguson and Adam Idah’s second half goals put the seal on another encouraging display. Maintaining their spot in League B of the Nations League was important ahead of upcoming World Cup qualifiers later this year.
AZ Alkmaar striker Troy Parrott was delighted to contribute despite not finding the net himself. For the second game in a row, the Irish striker’s movement and distribution played a vital role in his country’s latest win.
“Yeah, obviously it’s (come from behind win) not what we wanted. I think the goal this time was a bit on us. But yeah, to turn it around, come back and win, it's a nice feeling,” Parrott told RTÉ.
“I don't think it's a secret that, I've said before, that’s my favourite position (number 9 role) and that's where I feel like I'm the strongest. Yeah, look, I think we have a lot of quality in this team.
“You've seen tonight, Evan (Ferguson) with his goal, Adam (Idah) came on and scored his goal. I would have liked to score a goal for myself also, but the most important thing is that I think we won the game.”
When asked about being the form of his life, Parrott admitted he is going well but can add much more in front of goal for this developing Irish team.
“As I said, for me it's all about contributing to the game,” the Irish striker said.
“If I can play like this, then obviously I want to score goals, but playing like this is more important for me.
“I know the chances are going to keep coming and the goals will go in as I play more and more. But yeah, I'm really, really happy how tonight's gone.
“We have a lot of quality, especially in attacking areas. It can only benefit us having three strikers there that are all scoring goals and all playing well. And yeah, it's better for us to keep pushing each other.”
More of the same from Troy Parrott, Evan Ferguson and Adam Idah in the coming months will make Heimir Hallgrímsson’s squad a tougher opponent to beat.
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