Parrott Brace Wasted as Ireland Draw 2-2 with Austria

Republic of Ireland surrendered a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 with Austria in their UEFA Nations League match at the Aviva Stadium on October 1. Troy Parrott scored a spectacular solo goal in the 11th minute and converted a penalty before half-time to put the hosts in command.

Austria substitutes Alexander Prass and Michael Gregoritsch scored twice in a five-minute spell during the final quarter to level the contest. The visitors looked more likely to win after the equaliser, missing several chances to complete the turnaround.

“This was a performance that felt like the ultimate in coherence.”

The match was interrupted twice in the first half by 'Stop The Game' protests, with tennis balls thrown onto the pitch and a pitch invasion attempt. Security was heightened with airport-style checkpoints for media following a controversial week for the FAI.

Heimir Hallgrimsson made three changes from the previous match against Israel, bringing John Egan, Liam Scales, and Samir Azaz into the starting lineup. The new midfield combination of Azaz and Conor Coventry helped Ireland play through Austria's high press effectively in the first half.

Ireland goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher made a world-class save before the break but could not prevent the late collapse. Defender Dara O'Shea nearly won it at the death, coming close with a long-range effort in the final minutes.