It's almost 10 years since Latvia’s last visit to Dublin helped ease Martin O’Neill and Roy Keane into their new jobs.
Goals from Robbie Keane, Aidan McGeady and Shane Long ensured a comfortable night for the new managerial double-act - and kicked off an era that peaked at a last-16 finish at Euro 2016.
Tonight might well be viewed by some as a distraction ahead of next Monday’s Euro 2024 campaign opener at home to France.
READ MORE: Evan Ferguson to make first Ireland start against Latvia
But it could also be the starting point for another bright new era in Irish football.
Evan Ferguson gets his first senior start for the Boys in Green and it’s been a while since the Green Army has been so excited about a teenage attacking talent.
Ferguson’s presence is likely to put lots of additional bums on seats.
Ticket sales for tonight were very healthy due to the bundling together of Latvia’s visit with that of France in five nights' time.
Yet how many - particularly those living outside the Pale - would have sat this one out had the 18-year-old not enjoyed such an electrifying run of form since New Year’s Eve?
We have been warned to be patient and to avoid overhyping the former St Kevin’s and Bohemians teenager.
But nothing seems to faze the young Bettystown bomber.
His demeanour both on and off the pitch suggests he is more than capable of carrying the burden of a desperate nation’s hopes and dreams on his broad shoulders.
A goal from Ferguson tonight and the Green Army would rise up as one to hail a new hero.
It should be remembered, however, that Robbie Keane had to wait until cap number five before he scored his first senior Ireland goals.
So Ferguson, with just two caps and 14 minutes under his belt so far at this level, has plenty of time on his side.
Latvia are no mugs, despite their lowly FIFA ranking of 133rd. But they should be seen off, even if Stephen Kenny fields an 11 that will scarcely resemble next Monday’s starting side.
Over the past few years they have picked up credible draws with Iceland, Turkey and Norway.
However, they have also been held twice each by Andorra and the Faroe Islands, and in the Nations League in 2000 they picked up just one point from two games against Malta.
So for the sake of momentum heading into France, it’s important to kick off 2023 with a strong performance and a win. And maybe even a goal to mark the beginning of Fergie time?
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