Just what the doctor ordered? Maybe not, given that Callum Robinson drew scorn before this match by revealing he has turned down the Covid-19 vaccination, but in strictly football terms the West Brom forward gave the Republic of Ireland the tonic they sorely needed. His two lovely goals helped to earn the country’s first competitive win under Stephen Kenny at the 13th attempt.
Chiedozie Ogbene, who made history on his debut in June by becoming the first African-born player to represent Ireland, rounded off the scoring with a fine late header.