Ed Leahy

RTÉ Sport journalist

Evan Ferguson hits the back of the net to restore parity against Bulgaria

'Educated risk' as Ferguson goal maintains momentum

The gamble paid off for Heimir Hallgrimsson, with Evan Ferguson delivering on his return to the starting line-up as Ireland came from behind to beat Bulgaria 2-1 for the second time in three days.

Soccer • 24 Mar

Evan Ferguson scored the crucial equaliser

Ferguson and Idah strike to secure play-off success

The Republic of Ireland had to come from behind once again to beat Bulgaria 2-1 in tonight's UEFA Nations League play-off at Aviva Stadium.

Soccer • 24 Mar

Evan Ferguson came on during the first game in Plovdiv

Ferguson and O'Brien selected for Bulgaria encounter

Evan Ferguson returns to the Ireland starting side for tonight's Nations League play-off second leg against Bulgaria at Aviva Stadium.

Soccer • 23 Mar

Heimir Hallgrimsson believes that the group of Ireland players are becoming a team

Hallgrimsson seeing signs of a collective connection

Heimir Hallgrimsson is optimistic that Ireland's win over Bulgaria in Plovdiv proves pivotal for the national team, who are planning to launch a successful World Cup qualifying campaign later this year.

Soccer • 23 Mar

Matt Doherty celebrates his goal in Plovdiv with Mikey Johnston and Troy Parrott

Hallgrimsson sowing seeds for World Cup qualification

If Thursday night's impressive victory in Plovdiv whetted the appetite, there is a sense that tonight's clash with Bulgaria can kick-start Heimir Hallgrimsson's quest to qualify for the World Cup.

Soccer • 23 Mar

Heimir Hallgrimsson changed his immediate post-match opinion after watching the game back

Hallgrimsson clarifies 'emotional' post-match comments

Heimir Hallgrimsson admitted that his post-match comments regarding his players being too passive may have been a touch harsh having had a chance to re-watch the 2-1 victory over Bulgaria.

Soccer • 22 Mar

Heimir Hallgrimsson checks on Robbie Brady following his facial injury during the game in Bulgaria

Hallgrimsson braced for Bulgaria reaction in Dublin

More of the same, is the message that Heimir Hallgrimsson will send to his players going into Sunday's second leg of their UEFA Nations League play-off with Bulgaria.

Soccer • 21 Mar

Heimir Hallgrimsson salutes the travelling fans following the victory in Plovdiv

Character-building performance from Ireland in Plovdiv

Ireland were caught cold in Plovdiv, but eventually warmed up to beat Bulgaria and take an advantage into the second leg in Dublin on Sunday.

Soccer • 21 Mar

Robbie Brady, battered and bruised, reacts during second half

Azaz and Doherty earn Ireland deserved win in Bulgaria

Ireland survived an early scare to secure a well-earned 2-1 win against Bulgaria in tonight's UEFA Nations League play-off first leg encounter at the Hristo Botev Stadium in Plovdiv.

Soccer • 21 Mar

Troy Parrott, seen arriving at the stadium earlier this evening, has been handed a start

In-form Parrott starts in attacking Ireland formation

Troy Parrott has been handed the opportunity to stake his claim to lead the line for the upcoming World Cup qualifying campaign as the young Dubliner has been named to start up front against Bulgaria.

Soccer • 20 Mar