When so many young players spend more effort chasing fortunes instead of footballs, it is refreshing to discover that Anthony O’Connor does exactly the opposite.

Jeff Hendrick should have been sent off for a “shocking challenge” before playing a central role in Derby’s last-gasp equaliser in their 1-1 draw against fellow playoff hopefuls Brentford on Saturday.

Irish players formed central parts in the play- off victories of two sides at the weekend.

Republic of Ireland U21 head coach Noel King has named his squad for a friendly international against Portugal at Tallaght Stadium on Monday, March 25 (7.30pm).

Bradford 0 Swansea 5

Capital One Cup Final: Bradford v Swansea City

Ireland U-21 3 Netherlands U-21 0

Ireland U21 boss Noel King reckons more of his gems can follow Jeff Hendrick into the senior fold after he yesterday drafted in a dozen uncapped players for the upcoming friendly against Holland.

Favourite line on Ballboygate?

How Reading reject Carl McHugh went from also-ran to Wembley with giantkillers Bradford City. By Liam Mackey

Carl McHugh’s dreams can become reality tonight if his Bradford City side see out the biggest upset of the season at Villa Park in the Capital One Cup.

Bradford manager Phil Parkinson admitted his players had far exceeded his expectations after seeing them inflict more embarrassment on top-flight opposition with a stunning 3-1 win over Aston Villa in last night's Capital One Cup semi-final first leg.

Bradford 3 Aston Villa 1

Bradford 3 Aston Villa 1

Not too many people had heard of Carl McHugh until quite recently.

For Paddy McBrearty, Maynooth has been a home away from home these past eight days.

The final Louth derby of the season takes place tonight as Dundalk and Drogheda United go head to head at Oriel Park, kick-off 7.45pm.

Dundalk v Derry City

IT’S been a good week for league leaders Sligo Rovers.

Dundalk 1 Shamrock Rovers 2

Republic of Ireland 2-5 France