Latvian U-19 national team midfielder Markuss Strods made a memorable mark on Friday night, scoring his first-ever senior goals — and netting twice — for Bohemians FC in a dominant 7–0 victory over Killester Donnycarney FC in the opening round of the FAI Cup.
The 18-year-old attacking midfielder, who had previously made two substitute appearances in the League of Ireland Premier Division this season, was handed a place in the starting lineup for the cup tie. He didn’t take long to make an impact.
Just seven minutes into the match, Strods found himself in the right place at the right time. After a teammate’s shot was blocked, Strods reacted quickest inside the box, tapping in from close range to give Bohemians the early lead — and to open his own first-team goal account.
With Bohemians already two goals ahead by the 19th minute, Strods doubled his tally in style. After a slick individual move that saw him glide past a defender, the young Latvian fired a powerful low shot into the far corner to make it 3–0.
Strods was substituted in the second half with the scoreline at 4–0, having made a strong impression with his clinical finishing and attacking intent. Bohemians went on to add three more goals after his exit, sealing an emphatic 7–0 win and securing their place in the next round of the FAI Cup.
Markuss Strods and Bohemians will return to league action next Friday, when they travel to face Derry City in a Premier Division clash.
