'I couldn't sleep imagining it over and over'

""How many times I have watched it back? Probably about 500 times - every time I go on to my phone, it's there," Parrott explained. "Even last night when I got to bed, I couldn't sleep imagining it over and over and over. "In general, I'm not really an emotional person, it's the first time I've cried in years. Look I can sit here and try to describe it, but it is the first time I've felt something like that."

"What unravelled in the Hungarian capital on Sunday night was the culmination of an unforgettable week for Parrott and the Republic of Ireland. The 23-year-old's double in a 2-0 triumph against Portugal on Thursday night gave Heimir Hallgrimsson's side a fighting chance of qualifying for the World Cup through March's play-offs. But to then score a hat-trick against the Hungarians is something Parrott cannot quite fathom."

Troy Parrott scored an injury-time winner against Hungary that ignited national celebration and produced an intense emotional reaction. The 23-year-old also scored a brace in a 2-0 victory over Portugal earlier in the week, positioning Ireland for World Cup qualification via March's play-offs. Parrott replayed the decisive moment repeatedly on his phone and experienced unprecedented feelings, including crying for the first time in years. The goal ranks alongside iconic Irish moments such as Ray Houghton's and Robbie Brady's winners and has heightened expectations ahead of potential World Cup participation. The moment carries deep significance for fans after many disappointing results.

Read at www.bbc.com