Defender delighted with Irish debut

Reading defender Alex Pearce has expressed at his delight at receiving his first cap for the Republic of Ireland and also scoring on his debut.

The Reading academy graduate was a half-time substitute for Giovanni Trapattoni's side, who were 3-0 up at the break to Oman. Despite the Irish conceding in the second period, Pearce managed to get himself on the scoresheet on his first appearance for the Republic, as he nodded home from an Aidan McGeady corner.

Speaking to BBC Radio Berkshire, the 23-year old said: 'I was very proud. All the family were there to watch me, it was a very proud night. I was not even expecting to get on, so to play the second half and win and also score a goal was very pleasing. I got the nod as the whistle blew for half-time.'

'I didn't have too much time to worry about it. I was just nervous and excited. You just want to get your debut out the way and make sure you do alright and show why you are there really. It was pleasing to get on but the only negative was conceding that goal. But you can't have everything.'

Two familiar faces were also on the scoresheet for Ireland, with former strikers Shane Long and Kevin Doyle both grabbing a goal at Craven Cottage. Pearce had previously publicly stated he wanted to play for the Republic of Ireland rather than Scotland, despite making U21 appearances for the Scottish.

Wiki page: Alex Pearce

Click here to join in the debate on the club forum.