Derrick Williams and Callum Robinson were both delighted to score their first international goals in Ireland's 3-1 win over New Zealand and the pair hope hope they can force their way into Mick McCarthy's plans for the crucial Denmark clash on Monday.

Blackburn defender Williams started and drew Ireland level with a thumping header from a Robbie Brady corner just before half-time, after Callum McCowatt had given the visitors a surprise lead.

"It was my first time playing here and to top it off with a goal is brilliant. It means the world," Williams told RTÉ Sport.

"I actually said to Robbie before the game 'what area do you hit?' and he said 'just outside the six' so I made sure I got in there.

"I have quite a good spring so I just wanted to time it right and lucky enough it went in.

"I felt as the game went on we were the better side and we deserved the win."

Williams was the first man replaced by McCarthy after injuring his calf, but he hopes he did enough to be involved in the Euro 2020 qualifying showdown.

"Bit disappointed I had to come off. Hopefully my injury is okay and I've put a few thoughts in the gaffer's head.

"I was happy enough. I felt I was getting forward well and linking well. A bit disappointed about their goal, I gave the ball away, but other than that, I was pretty pleased."

Sheffield United forward Robinson also made a big impact in his half an hour on the pitch. He headed home a fine cross from debutant Lee O'Connor for Ireland's third goal and drew two fine saves from All Whites keeper Stefan Marinovic.

"Really happy to get my first goal. You can see in my celebration how happy I was.

"It was great work down the right and a nice cross as well (by Lee O'Connor). That's a great ball and he's a great football player. 

"He's done really well in training, so really happy for him."

Robinson might be more likely to feature in the must-win meeting with Denmark, given McCarthy had suggested none of Thursday night's starters would play. 

"Coming into Monday, we knew we had to get the job done, but I thought we got it done in style," he said.

"We played some good football tonight.

"Everyone would want to play on Monday night but it's a squad thing. Everyone has played their part throughout all the qualifiers, so hopefully now we can get over the line.

"If I'm involved I'm involved. It's a big one. I respect whatever the manager chooses to do. Hopefully I'll be a part of it but if not, we need to get through."

Sean Maguire

It was also a night of celebration for Robinson's former Preston team-mate Sean Maguire, the third man to get his first international goal in the same game.

"We room together and we were speaking about how we both wanted to get our first goals. It's enjoyable that they both happened on the same night," said Robinson.

"Unbelievable goal from him, he's got that in the locker. I thought he was great and deserved the man of the match.

"It's going to be a good room tonight!"