Ireland ratings: Szmodics and Ferguson blossom but cool Kelleher saves the blushes

How they rated: Doherty's surprises recall leads to a solid outing as Mikey Johnston again catches the eye

SOLID SHOWING: Republic of Ireland's Sammie Szmodics (left) attempts a shot on goal during the UEFA Nations League Group B2 match at the Aviva Stadium, Dublin. Pic: Brian Lawless/PA Wire.

Caoimhin Kelleher Saved by his upright in the first half and had little to do between Ireland leading and Joel Pohjanpalo’s penalty. But the Liverpool keeper did brilliantly to keep that strike out one-handed before smothering the rebound. 7 

Matt Doherty A surprise recall to the squad and, because of injuries rather than a change of heart, the Wolves man immediately returned to the starting XI. Solid enough defensively but offered up a poor attempt with a header after arriving unmarked at the back post from a corner. 6