It was the first time I’ve jumped off the sofa watching England in a long time. Coming off the bench in the 75 th minute to an England set piece, West Ham’s skipper Jarrod Bowen’s sublime first touch – a left-footed half volley from about 12 yards out – controlled the ball through a crowded box and into the Ireland net.
Bowen’s delight was evident on a night of firsts that included goals for Connor Gallagher and Taylor Harwood – Bellis on his debut.
A pretty comprehensive win in a game that was turned on its head following Irish defender Liam Scales dismissal for a second yellow card. England went on to score five in a pretty entertaining second half.
Ian Wright was quick to praise Bowen’s movement to find a couple of yards of space in what looked a text-book training-ground move.
West Ham’s skipper now joins an elite club of West Ham players who have netted for England. The most recent three being Declan Rice, Matthew Upson and Joe Cole. None, to the best of my memory, scored with their first touch after coming on. I’m off to complete the full list before the Premier League resumes next weekend. Unless someone already has it..
