The Republic of Ireland secured a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Canada in a World Cup warm-up match on Saturday, with a late penalty from Troy Parrott cancelling out Canada’s earlier lead.
The game, played in a blustery Aviva Stadium, saw Canada take the lead in the 23rd minute through an unfortunate own goal from Ireland’s J. O’Brien. The home side struggled to find their rhythm in the first half, going into the break a goal down.
Canada looked to build on their lead early in the second half, with D. Cornelius picking up a yellow card in the 47th minute. C. Larin then extended Canada’s advantage in the 57th minute, seemingly putting them in a commanding position.
However, Ireland were handed a lifeline in the 60th minute when they were awarded a penalty. Troy Parrott stepped up and coolly converted from the spot, pulling a goal back for the Boys in Green. Parrott’s goal injected new life into the Irish side, and they pushed for an equaliser.
Despite a yellow card for J. McGrath in the 64th minute, Ireland held on to secure a draw, a result that will offer some encouragement to manager Stephen Kenny as his team continues their preparations for the upcoming World Cup.
