Irish fans hold up ‘snake’ poster for Declan Rice and Jack Grealish as duo score in 2-0 victory for England

Rice was the first to find the net, as the Arsenal man fired in from inside the box after confusion to clear the ball by the opposition. Grealish doubled his side’s lead with a shot from a similar position, giving opposition keeper Caoimhin Kelleher no chance.

While Rice held back from celebrating his goal, Grealish had no problem whatsoever in letting the crowd know that he was happy to do so. With the win, England are now second, only behind Greece due to their inferior goal difference.

Declan Rice explains why he didn’t celebrate against Ireland

Social media erupted into debate when former Ireland players Declan Rice and Jack Grealish scored against them in the Nations League. Following the full-time whistle, Rice explained to the press why he held back from celebrating his goal in the first half. The Arsenal midfielder opted to play for Ireland at both senior and youth levels prior to 2019.

I was never going to celebrate. I have Irish family who are not here anymore. It would've been disrespectful to them if I celebrated. Declan Rice told the press following the game

English fans proceeded to laugh about how not only Rice, but Grealish’s scoring managed to ruin opposition fans’ mood completely. Manager Lee Carsley also made headlines by ‘refusing’ to sing the English National anthem.

He also made others on social media laugh by accidentally sitting on the Irish bench during the game. Previously, Carsley shut the door on Mason Greenwood by ruling out a return to the national team. Despite benching players like Kyle Walker and John Stones , the manager gave 24-year-old Angel Gomes his debut as he picked up his first win as manager.