DARWEN’S Anthony Pilkington scored his first goal for the Republic of Ireland in their 4-1 friendly win over the United States last night.

Pilkington, who hails from East Lancashire but qualifies for Ireland via his grandmother, was starting the friendly in Dublin after being an unused substitute in the 1-0 loss to Scotland in qualifying for Euro 2016 on Friday night.

It was the 26-year-old’s eighth appearance for the Republic and he marked it with his first goal for his country.

Pilkington needed only seven minutes to find the net, lofting the ball over United States goalkeeper Bill Hamid.

The midfielder has made 16 club appearances this season since moving to Cardiff City in a £1m deal from Norwich City, where he made his name in the Premier League.

Previously Pilkington had climbed through the leagues with Stockport County and Huddersfield Town.

His opening goal last night kept Ireland in the lead for 32 minutes until Mix Diskerud levelled at the Aviva Stadium.

Robbie Brady put Martin O’Neill’s men back in front, though, in the 55th minute and added a fourth late on after James McClean had struck.

Burnley defender Stephen Ward played in Ireland’s defeat in Scotland but was not involved in the squad last night.