Walters At The Double For Ireland

Last updated : 10 October 2003 By Mark Heys
Bolton Wanderers striker Jonathan Walters was the hero as the Republic of Ireland U21 side defeated the Switzerland U21 side 2-0 at the Stade de la Maladiere.

The 20-year old was making his full debut at that level and earned high praise from his coach Don Givens after scoring both the goals in a matchwinning performance from the young Wanderer, who has spent time on loan with Crewe Alexandra this season.

Walters scored his first goal on 61 minutes when he headed home at the far post following a cross by Tottenham Hotspur youngster Stephen Kelly and added his second of the night 13 minutes later heading home an assist by Shelbourne player Wes Hoolahan.

Former Blackburn Rovers youngster Walters was withdrawn and left the field to a standing ovation ten minutes from time in what will give the Birkenhead born player much confidence from a satisfactory performance.

Givens was full of praise for the debutant Walters in his post match comments and he expects the Wanderers youngster to achieve even more.

"Jon Walters made a very good start to his international career – I have been trying to get him in the squad for a while and seeing what he did shows he will be a big asset in the future"