ACCRINGTON Stanley's Jimmy Ryan followed up his strike against Bradford on Saturday with a goal for the Republic of Ireland under 21 team in Lithuania this afternoon.

The midfielder broke the deadlock in the 74th minute with a fine effort from 25 yards as Ireland went on to win 3-0 in the friendly in Jonava.

Darwen-born Anthony Pilkington, who plays for Stockport County, made his under 21 debut in the match and hit the post in the first half.

Blackburn Rovers defender Eddie Nolan, who is currently on loan at Preston, was also in the starting line-up and his second-half header led to a penalty given for handball.