Not a bad day at the office. Three Irish players have found the back of the net in the Championship today, and a couple of them were absolute beauties.
Alan Browne and David McGoldrick both came up with stunning strikes for their team, while Conor Hourihane's header proved to be the winner in Villa's match against Swansea.
Hourihane showed excellent awareness to get on the end of this cross to score the winner for Aston Villa, with Wilfried Bony's missed penalty handing his side all three points.
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Alan Browne's goal was an absolute belter. He picked up the ball outside the Hull penalty area, before unleashing a wonderful strike to leave the opposition 'keeper with no chance.
McGoldrick has been in fantastic form of Sheffield United this season during their unlikely promotion push, with this being his seventh goal in the Championship this season. He took this one incredibly well. A clearing header fell perfectly in the striker's path, and he showed wonderful composure to lob the oncoming goalkeeper.
His goal was a vital breakthrough for Sheffield in the game, and he was deservedly named man-of-the-match for his efforts. He looks a decent bet for an Ireland call-up at the moment, considering his strong form and history with Mick McCarthy.
The Irish boss will no doubt be pleased to see some Irish players amongst the goals, an area where the national team has struggled badly in recent times. Alan Browne's influence could be especially important, as the team have lacked goals and creativity in the middle third. At only 23-years old, he figures to be a key contributor for a number of years.
Hourihane's form is also encouraging, and all of a sudden it looks like Ireland have some real options in midfield.
