Troy Parrott Shines as Real Betis Defeats Getafe

Troy Parrott’s touch of class lit up Seville on Thursday night as Real Betis edged past Getafe to climb into the thick of the La Liga title race.

Betis ground out a 1-0 win at the Benito Villamarin, a fifth victory of the campaign that lifts them to third place and keeps them within three points of leaders Barcelona after six rounds. The margin was slim. The implications were not.

And right at the heart of it was the Republic of Ireland striker.

Left on the bench in Monday’s win away to Villarreal, Parrott made up for lost time. He twice went hunting for a spectacular opener before the break, first trying his luck from the centre circle, then threatening again with a chance inside the box as Betis pushed Getafe back.

The breakthrough came from the same boot, but with a cooler head.

Just before half-time, Parrott spotted the run of Abde Ezzalzouli and slid a slick, unselfish pass into his path. The winger did the rest, finishing what proved to be the only goal of the game and turning Parrott’s vision into three precious points.

Getafe never found a way back. Betis, roared on by a home crowd sensing something building this season, managed the contest and protected their lead, content to let that single moment of quality decide it.

Next up is a trip to Deportivo de A Coruna on Sunday night (5.30pm Irish time), Betis’ final domestic outing before the month-long international break. For Parrott, it doubles as a final audition before he switches focus to Ireland and the task of driving their UEFA Nations League push.