Heimir Hallgrímsson is optimistic that Ireland’s successful recovery against Finland in a Thursday night match in Helsinki will serve as the boost of morale the team needs to leave behind a set of disappointing performances.
During his third game as the manager of the team, Hallgrímsson was awarded his introductory victory, thanks to Robbie Brady’s late winning strike. Ireland was losing 1-0 to Finland during the half-time of the match in Helsinki, but the match tilted towards the visiting team after Liam Scales and Brady both scored in the second half.
“After the game, Hallgrímsson acknowledged that the whole event wasn’t flawless, as they nearly got punished twice due to a couple of opportunities Finland had in the second half. Still, he emphasised the significance of the victory for the team’s morale.
He asserted that the discussion surrounding self-assuredness is applicable to this match and believes this will provide a much-needed boost in the squad’s confidence. Reflecting upon the match’s events, he expressed satisfaction over numerous aspects of the team’s show on the pitch. According to him, the team pulled strong, particularly at the first half’s end and kept that fire alive during the second half.
He contended that the team’s improved synchronisation and hearty training were evident in their gameplay. They denied Finland a number of scoring opportunities and didn’t allow them to breach their guard easily.
Despite expressing a sense of overall contentment, he warned that the next match is challenging and set to happen in just two days. Anticipating fatigue, Hallgrímsson asserts the importance of contemplating their next match with Greece.
Festy Ebosele, who was brought onto the field towards the end, greatly impacted the course of the match, troubling Finland significantly with his explosive advances along the right. He utilised his exceptional skills and strength to breach the home defence and tossed an exquisite cross to Brady at the far post for the winning goal.
Brady, who displayed exquisite dexterity and calmness to drive the ball home, admitted that shooting was his sole thought when he received the ball. He complimented Ebosele’s game-changing magic, his excellent speed, strength and terrific delivery.
“You can unmistakably observe the tireless labour that the chaps are committing to each training camp. Although the outcomes hadn’t been favourable for us, we had a feeling that a shift was on the horizon. The dressing room is brimming with youthful talent valued at millions of pounds and earning the victory tonight has certainly given us immense joy.”