International Career
Bonner made his international debut on his 21st birthday in a friendly against Poland on May 24, 1981. The game was played in Zawisza Stadium, Bydgoszcz. He conceded a goal in the opening 90 seconds of the match, scored by Andrzej Iwan. A David O'Leary own goal in the 37th minute and a third Polish goal in the second half from Roman Ogaza would make it a forgettable experience. For the remainder of the Eoin Hand managerial era, Bolton Wanderers Jim McDonagh remained Ireland's first choice Goalkeeper. However, by the time of the appointment of Jack Charlton in March 1986, Bonner was already claiming the number one position for the Republic. Bonner claimed his 75th international cap on his 34th birthday in a 1-0 win over Bolivia at Landsdowne Road which at the time equalled the Republic of Ireland record held by Liam Brady.
Read more about this topic: Packie Bonner
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