Ireland's U-21 goal scorer, Killian Phillips, claimed that his first Ireland start, and goal were 'bittersweet' due to Italy's last-gasp goal.
Ireland and Italy engaged in a top-of-the-table clash on Tuesday at Turner's Cross in Cork. Ireland initially took the lead through Phillips, with Willy Gnonto equalizing shortly after through a penalty. Ireland once again took the lead with an impressive goal from Sinclair Armstrong.
Ireland successfully held off the Italian team, which boasted players with a combined 45 senior Serie A appearances, for most of the game. However, in the closing moments, a last-gasp punt into the box was missed by Ireland's defenders, allowing Gnonto to break Irish hearts in Cork.
Phillips, one of the players on the night, was interviewed after the game. Despite the match feeling like a defeat, he described his first Ireland start and goal as "bittersweet."
Everyone has a story. A little insight into what starting and scoring for the first time for your country means to Killian Philips. Pity the result didn't go his way, but the Under 21 squad are on track 🇮🇪 #rtesport pic.twitter.com/bWSGlncXM0
— Darren Frehill (@Darrenfrehill) November 22, 2023
"It's bittersweet, to be honest with you. It's my first competitive start for Ireland, and I'm delighted to score, but we're just gutted at the end because the boys gave it everything," he said to RTE Sport.
"I'm knackered! I can't even do this interview; I'm knackered. Gave it all; it's just gutting. It would have been a huge three points.
"It was a bit emotional, to be honest [starting the game]. I've come a long way, I've worked so, so hard. All those late nights have come down to a moment like this."
The Wycombe Wanderers player also admitted that his first Ireland goal would stick with him for the rest of his life.
"My mam was here tonight; she doesn't get to watch me that much because I'm abroad. To score in front of her... I've written it down millions of times. To score for Ireland is probably the proudest moment of my life; you probably saw it in my celebrations. I was close to tears.
"I'm buzzing, I'm delighted, and obviously I'm gutted about the result. But that will stick with me for the rest of my life."
Jim Crawford's young Ireland side remains in second place in the group. The next game will be against San Marino in March next year.
See More: Football, Ireland 21s
