Trap’s too lazy to do it, so leave it to JOE to look back on the performances of the established and potential members of the Ireland squad over the weekend.
By Frank McCann
FA Cup
Jon Walters
An excellent season with Stoke got even better for Walters on Sunday, bagging two goals in the FA Cup semi-final against Bolton. The Potters forward, who was once on the books at Bolton, was in fine form as his side ran out 5-0 winners at Wembley.
Walters tested Jussi Jaaskelinen in the opening minutes, causing havoc in the penalty area from a Stoke free-kick. Following that early chance, Stoke pressed on and went into a three goal lead during the first half-hour of the game.
It was in the second half that Walters truly turned it on, providing some excellent hold-up play, as well as moments of flair (not something we’re accustomed to see from the tough Irish striker).
His first goal was an absolute beauty, hitting a magnificent shot from 25 yards that curled into the side of the Bolton net. His second showed off his predatory skills, when he latched onto the end of Keywyne Jone’s cross. The two Stoke strikers had excellent chemistry during the game, producing a formidable partnership on a day when it really mattered.
Premier League
Robbie Keane
Since his move to West Ham United, the Irish captain has struggled with injuries and a lack of good form. He has found it hard to stamp his authority since his move to Upton Park, with his time there being very stop-start.
However, there were signs that he might be back on track following a good performance against Aston Villa on Saturday afternoon. Along with Carlton Cole and Victor Obinna, the West Ham striker had a good afternoon as part of the attacking trio.
The Irish forward scored a typical “Robbie Keane” goal, finding the net from two-yards. He worked hard all afternoon, despite his side folding late in the game.
Trademark Robbie Keane
James McCarthy
The Irish international linked up brilliantly with Charles N’Zogbia and Tom Cleverly during Wigan’s vital victory against Blackpool at Bloomfield Road on Saturday afternoon.
McCarthy kept Charlie Adam quiet all afternoon, denying the Scot any space to create chances for the home side. The Wigan midfielder also got forward at every opportunity, causing problems for the Seasiders’ struggling back four.
Another performance that will have impressed Giovanni Trapattoni, McCarthy should be looking at a starting berth when the international campaign resumes in the summer.
Conor Sammon
Before joining Wigan in January, Conor Sammon had been in superb form for Kilmarnock in the Scottish Premier League, scoring 14 league goals in 22 appearances.
Over the weekend, Sammon was named in the PFA Scotland Team of the Year for 2011, showing that he could possibly be the hidden gem of Irish football.
Despite not yet starting for Wigan, Sammon has been excellent in a substitute role, showing great desire and strength on the ball.
Fellow Irish strikers Adam Ronney and Anthony Stokes missed out on a place in the team, despite also reaching double figures for their clubs this season.
nPower Championship
Keith Treacy
The Preston winger scored twice during his side’s 3-1 victory over Sheffield United on Saturday afternoon. The win keeps North End’s chances of survival alive, with the side lying just four points from safety with four games to go.
Treacy has been one of the stand out performers for Preston during a tough season for the club.
The Ireland international will surely be looking for a move to another club if Preston are to suffer relegation, with a number of Championship clubs reportedly interested in signing the 22-year-old.
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