Republic of Ireland striker Troy Parrott scored twice, but his side surrendered a two-goal advantage as Austria fought back to secure a 2-2 draw in their UEFA Nations League encounter at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin on Thursday.
Parrott opened the scoring in spectacular fashion in the 12th minute before converting from the penalty spot just before half-time to put Ireland firmly in control.
However, Austria responded strongly after the interval, with Alexander Prass reducing the deficit in the 71st minute before Michael Gregoritsch equalised six minutes later.
The match was twice disrupted in the first half by protests.
Tennis balls carrying Palestinian flags and ‘#StopTheGame’ stickers were thrown onto the pitch around the 20th minute, while another protester carrying what appeared to be a Palestine flag later entered the playing area before being removed by security personnel.
The protests followed Ireland’s decision not to boycott their previous match against Israel, although goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu made himself unavailable for that fixture.
Ireland are scheduled to face Israel again on Sunday.
Before the interruptions, Parrott had given the hosts the lead after controlling Adam Idah’s glanced header from a goal kick.
The Real Betis striker weaved past several Austrian defenders before firing into the bottom corner.
Ireland goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher subsequently denied Patrick Wimmer before the hosts doubled their advantage.
Ryan Manning was brought down in the box by Nicolas Seiwald, and after a VAR review, Parrott stepped up to send the resulting penalty beyond Florian Wiegele.
Austria pulled one back when Prass was left unmarked after Liam Kitching was caught out, with the midfielder firing past Kelleher.
The goal was initially ruled out for offside before VAR overturned the decision.
Gregoritsch then completed the comeback with a free-kick that Kelleher was unable to keep out, leaving both sides to settle for a point.
The result leaves Ireland third in Group B3, behind Austria and Kosovo, with the group at the halfway stage.
Ireland captain Dara O’Shea was denied a late winner by a fine save from Wiegele, while Gregoritsch also sent an effort over the bar.
