Ferguson on target on first Irish start

Teenage sensation Evan Ferguson marked his first start for the Republic of Ireland senior team with a goal as Stephen Kenny's side secured a 3-2 victory over Latvia at the Aviva tonight.

Bettystown man Ferguson was making his third senior appearance, following on from substitute outings in games against Norway and Malta last November.

The 18-year-old's outstanding form with Brighton & Hove Albion in the English Premier League which has seen him score seven goals this season earned him a place in Kenny's starting line-up for tonight's friendly and his first senior goal for his country should ensure he starts Monday night's Euro qualifier against World Cup runners-up France.

Ireland led inside six minutes tonight against Latvia with Calum O'Dowda scoring with a header, but just over 10 minutes later Ferguson was on target to double Ireland's lead after Michael Obafemi did well to keep the ball in play and leave Ferguson with the simplest of finishes - right man, in the right place.

However, that lead didn't last long as Latvia pulled one back with a wonder strike from Roberts Uldrikis and right on the stroke of half-time they equalised when Arturs Zjuzins shot from distance was deflected past Caoimhin Kelleher.

Ireland looked stunned by that setback in the early stages of the second-half, but the introduction of Mikey Johnston proved the boost they needed as his initial shot came back off the post before Chiedozie Ogbene fired to the net from close range.

Ferguson shipped a couple of heavy challenges as he continued to cause problems for the Latvian defence before he was replaced with Troy Parrott in the 73rd minute.

Ireland held on for the win and it was a night Ferguson will never forget as he became the youngest Republic of Ireland senior goalscorer since Robbie Keane.