PNE striker Maguire makes Republic of Ireland debut

Sean Maguire replaces Shane Long during the Republic of Ireland's win over Moldova in Dublin

Maguire joined the action from the bench in the 83rd minute, replacing Shane Long.

The game was in the bag at that stage, two first-half goals from Daryl Murphy giving them a 2-0 win.

Maguire's introduction raised a huge cheer at the Aviva Stadium, with the front man a popular figure in Irish football after his goals for Cork City.

Sean Maguire shields the ball against Moldova

His PNE team-mate Daryl Horgan missed out on the match day squad.

Horgan had been one of 30 players training with the Irish squad this week but match day squads are limited to 23.

The Republic of Ireland now face a showdown with Wales in Cardiff on Monday night to see who will clinch second place in Group D and reach the play-offs.

Wales won 1-0 in Georgia on Friday to stay second in the group, a point ahead of the Irish.

North End goalkeeper Chris Maxwell was on the bench for Wales, having won his first call-up to the senior squad.