Elliott Earns The Plaudits

Elliott should have opened the scoring in the first half but struck wide when well placed but it was he who was brought down in the penalty box six minutes into the second half of the World Cup qualifier which resulted in Ian Harts opener from the spot for Ireland.

Former Black Cats midfielder Kevin Kilbane added a second eight minutes later.

“Stephen Elliott worked very hard right across the line. He should have scored in the first half but he did well to get the penalty kick, he showed his enthusiasm," Kerr said after the 2-0 win which leaves Ireland top of the Group Four table.

“He’s still got a lot to learn for this level but it was good for him to get a start in a competitive match.”