Agg bags debut winner for Ireland against Philippines

Republic of Ireland 1-0 Philippines

Lily Agg had a day to remember as she netted a debut winning goal for the Republic of Ireland against Philippines in Antalya, Turkey.

The friendy was set up to help Vera Pauw's squad acclimatise to the heat ahead of their 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup qualifier away to Georgia on Monday week.

With many players out of season, the match was useful for Ireland to help build up their fitness against a team that has already qualified for next summer's World Cup tournament.

While Ireland tried to connect their passing game, it didn't always work in the first period.

Agg was a bright spark in midfield and Roma McLaughlin impressed in her first start since Pauw took charge of the team.

There was also a start for forward Stephanie Roche, ending a long wait since here last one in September 2017.

The Peamount United ace worked hard but didn't get too many chances to add to her 15-goal tally.

Agg, who was born in Brighton, qualifies through her Cork-born Grandmother and made the most of her first appearance for Ireland.

A determined run led to her goal when she attacked at the back post as Roche received the ball and unleashed a shot on the turn that deflected into the path of Agg to slot in.

There weren't too many clear-cut goalscoring opportunities after that as Pauw made four changes at the interval, which included defender Jessie Stapleton coming on for her senior debut.

Philippines went close to scoring themselves late on but Carleigh Bennett Frilles fizzed her shot wide of Courtney Brosnan's goal.

Denise O'Sullivan will report into camp on Monday having featured for her club North Carolina Courage this weekend.

Pauw's squad will continue their training camp in Antalya until Saturday when they fly to