Young Irish soccer players in Britain were at the forefront in the English Premiership yesterday. Richard Dunne made his first appearance of the season at Goodison Park, putting in a solid appearance at centre back in a young Everton team that also contained the Republic of Ireland under-21 international Gareth Farrelly. Howard Kendall's side, led forcefully by captain Duncan Ferguson who contributed his first hat-trick in English soccer, enjoyed a rare victory, beating Bolton 3-2.

Willie Boland, a second-half substitute, had an eventful half hour as Coventry staged a dramatic comeback to beat Manchester United 3-2.

Leeds United's young Irish contingent was also in action, Alan Maybury starting in the absence of suspended countryman Gary Kelly and the highly-regarded Stephen McPhail making his first appearance on the bench at Elland Road. George Graham's side shared the points with Aston Villa in 1-1 draw.

Damien Duff's meteoric rise continued apace as he contributed gamely to Blackburn's cause as they were twice forced to come from behind to draw with Crystal Palace at Ewood Park. Duff, twice a goalscorer in recent games, had several shots on goal and the rebound from one of his shots fell into the path of Chris Sutton who made it 2-2. Blackburn remain the team closest to Manchester United.

Steve Carr was on hand to welcome new team-mate Juergen Klinsmann to White Hart Lane as Tottenham played out a 1-1 draw with north London rivals Arsenal.

In the first division, Robbie Keane was substituted at halftime as Wolves beat Port Vale 2-0. Kevin Kilbane and Graham Kavanagh came face to face at the Hawthorns as West Bromwich played out a 1-1 draw with Stoke.

Alan Kelly contributed some heroics as Sheffield had a comfortable 4-1 win over Charlton at Bramall Lane. Kelly made several good saves although injured in the second half.