Rocco Vata continued his impressive early season form with a goal for Ireland’s u-17 side in their 5-0 win over Andorra in a European Championship qualifier at Turners Cross, Cork.
Born in Scotland to an Albianian Dad and Scottish Mum, Rocco opted to go with his gran’s nation for international football, playing for Ireland from u-15 level upwards.
With Poland and North Macedonia also in their group it was essential that Ireland got off to a strong start with Rocco scoring the fifth goal last night to send the squad into Sunday’s match against North Macedonia in high spirits.
While his Dad, Rudi, played at right-back or in central defence his bhoy is a strong pacy winger who has a good eye for goal, taking the chance to impress with Celtic B in the Lowland League.
Even at the age of 16 he has the physique to shrug off his opponents as he hugs the wing to create space and opportunities for his team-mates.
Combining the Lowland League with international football is an unusual combination but it’s one that seems to be working for Celtic, Ireland and Vata Junior.
Delighted for the Ireland U17’S 5-0 win tonight..Great assist and Goal from Rocco Vata???Proud Mum? pic.twitter.com/P5PfFBrGmK
— AnnFrances Murray (@AnnFrancesMurr3) October 7, 2021
100%?????
— AnnFrances Murray (@AnnFrancesMurr3) October 8, 2021
Bhoy is a class act ?
— Derek McKenna (@DerekMcKenna) October 7, 2021
Bhoys got a big future ahead of him, good luck ??
— Peter Nugent??????? (@pedrovasgarcia) October 8, 2021
Well done boys a baller
— Kevin Price (@kpnuts77) October 7, 2021
Hopefully 1st of many for your boy!!!
— tonyh7991 (@tonyh7991) October 8, 2021