ROVERS' Republic of Ireland under 21 contingent all featured as Don Given's side got their Intercontinental Cup group off to a winning start.

Defender Eddie Nolan played the full ninety minutes in a 3-1 victory over Malaysia, whilst Keith Treacy featured for all but the final six minutes, replaced by club team-mate Alan Judge.

Treacy was the provider for the opening goal on 22 minutes when his cross from the right was headed home by Michael Collins.

Four minutes later Collins was amongst the goals once again with a strike from the edge of the area.

Soon after the break it was 3-0 when Ireland captain Ward headed home.

But in humid conditions the host nation put up more of a fight in the second half as the Irish tired, a goal deep in injury time reducing arrears.

Ireland follow up their opening win with a game against tournament favourites Nigeria on Saturday, before playing their final group match against Iraq on Monday.