Parrott double earns Ireland draw as Hallgrimsson defends substitution

Troy Parrott scored twice as the Republic of Ireland drew 2-2 with Austria in the UEFA Nations League in Dublin, with manager Heimir Hallgrimsson praising the striker's opening goal but defending his decision to substitute him. BBC Sport reported that Austria recovered from a two-goal deficit to deny Ireland a second consecutive victory.

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Parrott created the breakthrough after receiving a pass from Adam Idah about 20 yards from goal. He took the ball through Philipp Lienhart's legs, moved past David Affengruber and finished through goalkeeper Florian Wiegele's legs. Team-mate Jack Moylan responded by putting his hands on his head as the Aviva Stadium crowd celebrated.

The forward added a penalty just before half-time, putting Ireland two goals ahead and taking his international total to 14 goals in 40 appearances. According to BBC Sport, nine of those goals have come in his past six competitive internationals. He had also scored in Ireland's 3-0 victory over Israel on Sunday.

Austria reduced the deficit shortly before Parrott left the field in the 75th minute, then scored again after his departure to secure a point. The comeback meant his two goals were not enough to deliver the win that Ireland had appeared on course for at the interval, despite another productive individual performance.

Hallgrimsson said he did not regret replacing Parrott with Chiedozie Ogbene. Explaining the change after the match, the manager said the striker had taken several knocks and was tiring, with another international to come three days later. He also praised Parrott's defensive work and discipline alongside his ability to score, describing those qualities as an important part of his contribution.

Parrott's international form has continued alongside the start of his time at Real Betis, who signed him in the summer. BBC Sport reported that he has registered two goals and an assist in limited playing time for the Spanish club this season. For Ireland, his latest double followed the hat-trick against Hungary last November that secured a World Cup play-off place.