Wolves' Ireland trio reunited in glory

Wolves' Republic of Ireland contingent were reunited in glory as they brushed off the pressures of Survival Sunday to help crush Northern Ireland 5-0.

Playing at left-back, Stephen Ward made a surprise debut and put Ireland ahead in the 24th minute of their Carling Nations Cup romp at the Aviva Stadium last night.

Kevin Foley played in central midfield with his 68th minute replacement Stephen Hunt was back in action as his spectacular goal clinched Wolves' Premier League safety in Sunday's dramatic 3-2 defeat by Blackburn, while Andy Keogh had a late run-out for Robbie Keane.

Further goals came from captain Keane, three minutes after Ward's effort, followed by a penalty on 53 minutes which sandwiched a Craig Cathcart own goal.

Then Albion striker Simon Cox became Ireland's second debut scorer from the West Midlands late on.

Ward said: "It was nice to get the win and even better to cap it with a goal on my debut - a good night all round.

"I don't usually go up for corners for Wolves, but I was up there and it was a case of being in the right place at the right time."

For Dubliner Ward, it was a case of third time lucky after being called up on two previous occasions without playing.

He said: "Making my debut was an honour and something I've waited a long time for. I enjoyed every minute of it. Hopefully it's something I can build from."

Foley was delighted for Ward, adding: "Wardy's call-up came a bit later than I expected.

"I know he's loved being part of an Ireland squad and to get the chance to play - and score - was something he really deserved.

"He's been was one of our best players for the last few seasons. He's been fantastic whether it be at left-back, left midfield or up front.

"To go from striker to left-back in such a short space of time and adapt to the position well, he's done brilliantly."

Wolves academy winger Johnny Gorman went close, while former Molineux man Keith Andrews clipped the outside of the post.

Hunt almost got in on the act again only for his free-kick to hit the inside of the post and bounce out of play.