The Ireland U16s are currently preparing for their second fixture in the Victory Shield, which is based in Tralee, Kerry this week.

Ireland suffered defeat in their first game against Northern Ireland and face Wales tomorrow at Mounthawk Park, with kick-off at 1pm.

McCormack was selected in Paul Osam's squad after an impressive campaign for St. Patrick's Athletic in the SSE Airtricity National U15 League, where they won the League & Cup double. 

"It's been a great year for me, I couldn't be happier with the way it's on," said McCormack.

"The squad and staff at St. Patrick's Athletic were brilliant all season. We targeted the double at the start of the year and to achieve it is fantastic. 

"To be called up to the Ireland squad after that is a dream come true. It's every child's dream to play for their country and it was a huge moment for me and my family."

Dublin-born McCormack scored 20 goals from midfield during the 2018 season and played a starring role in Ireland's opening Victory Shield defeat against Northern Ireland. 

With two tough games against Wales and Scotland coming up, McCormack hopes to be part of a winning side to cap off a memorable year in his football development. 

"It'll be great to get the win tomorrow. It's what we all want to do and we've worked really hard in training towards it," McCormack continued.

"The atmosphere with the players is fantastic and the way it's all done is really professional so it's a great environment to be part of.

"I've done well this year but I need to keep going and push myself. I want to impress the coaches so I can continue to be selected in the future so I've got to keep up the hard work."

Republic of Ireland U16 Squad

Goalkeepers: Josh Keely (St. Patrick's Athletic), Daniel Rose (Everton)
Defenders: Fionnan Coyle (Finn Harps), CJ Egan-Reilly (Manchester City), Oisin Hand (Shamrock Rovers), Ronan Kilkenny (Bohemians), Gavin O'Brien (Bohemians), Adam Wells (Shamrock Rovers)
Midfielders: Kailin Barlow (Sligo Rovers), Colin Conroy (Bohemians), Oran Crowe (Cork City), Jamie Doyle (St. Patrick's Athletic), Lee Harkin (Tristar Boys), Ben McCormack (St. Patrick's Athletic), Andrew Moran (Bray Wanderers)
Forwards: Sinclair Armstrong (Shamrock Rovers), Louie Barry (West Bromwich Albion), Oliver O'Neill (Fulham), Billy Vance (Bray Wanderers)

2018 Victory Shield Results

12/11: Scotland 1-1 Wales, St. Brendan's Park, 1pm
12/11: Republic of Ireland 1-3 Northern Ireland, Mounthawk Park, 6pm

2018 Victory Shield Fixtures

14/11: Republic of Ireland v Wales, Mounthawk Park, 1pm
14/11: Northern Ireland v Scotland, Mounthawk Park, 6pm

16/11: Scotland v Republic of Ireland, Tralee Dynamos, 1pm
16/11: Wales v Northern Ireland, Mounthawk Park, 1pm

Having knocked out the reigning champions North End United in the Fourth Round, Kilkenny's Freebooters have been handed a home draw against either Fermoy FC or Rathcoole Rovers.

The matches are scheduled to take place by December 2nd.

Ireland 10-3 Zimbabwe

Despite a rain shower which made conditions slippery underfoot, Ireland got into their stride quickly with goals from Gavin Dowling (2) and Eddie Madigan. Zimbabwe pulled one back but Madigan restored the three-goal advantage with a cool finish.

Ken Kinsella added another with a fine effort from the left with Madigan adding another before the half-time whistle.  The second half began with both sides trading goalls before Dowling completed his hat-trick. Diarmuid O’Connor added to Ireland’s tally with a great team goal while Zimbabwe showed great team spirit and effort to reduced the arrears by scoring a third.

It was to be their last as Anthony Madden showed great determination having wo the ball in his own half then showed for the return before placing it beyond the reach of the opposing goalkeeper. O’Connor completed the scoring for the Irish who ran out winner by a margin of 10-3. Ireland dominated throughout laying down a marker early in the competition.

Wales 1-5 Ireland

Another high intensity start from Ireland saw captain Gavin Dowling scoring two and also hitting a post. His second an absolute peach of a solo effort. Wales pulled a goal back which was the signal for Ireland to up their intensity forcing the Welsh keeper into pulling off a string of great saves. Eddie Madigan slotted home a rebound after the keeper had made another great save.

The second-half was more of the same and with Daniel Moore getting his first goal of the tournament from a central position while Tomas Dinan added the fifth. A mention must go keeper Jordan O Reilly whose assured play between the sticks provided stability to the team. O’Reilly made some telling blocks when called upon and his distribution was excellent throughout setting up the basis for many of Ireland's best attacks.

The win provided a fantastic end to the opening day of matches at Zocalo Square in Mexico City.

Erasmus+ is the EU's programme to support education, training, youth and sport in Europe, and the five co-ordinators visited various Spanish facilities to learn the Spanish best practice.

Harry McCue, Leo Tierney, Paul Friel, Trevor Lovell and Rory O'Hare began their trip with a visit to the Spanish FA Headquarters. While there, the group the Deputy Director of the Spanish National Coaching School Israel Lopez i Ferrer, and a number of Spansh FA coaches including their Under-21 coach Luis de la Fuente.

The group also visited Atletico Madrid's Training Centre, where they watched the club's youth teams in action, and were shown the training and educational methods used by the club.

The final day of activities saw the group travel to Segunda side ADA Alcorcón to meet with the underage coaches. They were also introduced to the methodology of the club's Academy. The trip endeded with a trip to the La Liga match between Atletico Madrid and Atletic Bilbao. 

A brace from Oliver O'Neill and goals from Louie Barry and Andrew Moran either side of the break sealed the victory at Mounthawk Park ahead of the final game against Scotland on Friday.

Ireland were dominant from start to finish and deservedly went ahead in the 21st minute. The industrious O'Neill found the onrushing Barry with a lofted through-ball and after he expertly flicked the ball over the keeper, he finished to give the home side the lead.

Four minutes before the break, Ireland doubled their lead. O'Neill didn't give up on a long ball forward in difficult conditions and after he beat defender Keelan Williams to the ball, the Fulham forward fired home. 

Paul Osam's side didn't let up after the break and grabbed their third nine minutes after the break. Substitute Sinclair Armstrong did well to find Bray Wanderers' Andrew Moran six yards out and he found the bottom corner.

With 15 minutes remaining, Ireland completed the scoring. West Bromwich Albion's Barry found O'Neill on the edge of the area and after he turned his defender, he slid the ball under the keeper for his second of the game.

Ireland could have scored more in the final minutes of the game as substitutes Armstrong and Oran Crowe went close but will settle for the 4-0 scoreline ahead of the final game of the tournament on Friday. 

"We started the game very well, we needed to after the last 15 minutes of the game the other night," said U16 Head Coach Paul Osam.

"We did a lot of preparation coming into this game and it's great to see young players take instructions on board the way they did today.

"We had Wales penned back for long periods and had a lot of opportunities to score throughout the game. It was very important for us to keep a clean sheet as well so it's a real lift.

"It gives us an opportunity going into Friday's match so we'll go back and look at what we can improve on again going into that game."

Republic of Ireland: Daniel Rose (GK), Oisin Hand (C), CJ Egan-Reilly, Colin Conroy (Ben McCormack 66), Billy Vance (Sinclair Armstrong 41), Louie Barry (Lee Harkin 66), Andrew Moran (Kailin Barlow 56), Adam Wells, Oliver O'Neill (Oran Crowe 66), Jamie Doyle, Fionnan Coyle.

Wales: Luca Smith (GK), Keelan Williams (Harry Jones 41), Taylor Jones (Josh Edwards 51), Bryce Jones (Jay Williams 41), Matthew Baker, Ollie Ewing (C), Jadan Raymond (James Sweet-Lannin 51), Levent Gundogan (Ryan Viggers 63), Patrick Jones (Aaron Hillier 51), Cian Williams.

Referee: Eddie O'Mahony.

Jetmir Amiti’s through-ball found the run of Tim Lemperle who side-footed to the corner of the net for a composed finish to give the visitors the lead in the fourth minute.

Despite that early setback, Ireland played their way into the game and should’ve levelled in the 16th minute. 

Matt Everitt showed good feet when slaloming in from the right flank to carve open the Germany defence. The ball ran for Ronan McKinley who just couldn’t find the finish as he blazed over the top from close range.

Though the game remained tight into the second half, Ireland goalkeeper Jimmy Corcoran was forced into smart saves to deprive Lars Kehl and then Marvin Weiss.

Having survived, Ireland were inches from an equaliser on 61 minutes. McKinley cut in on the left to get his shot away but Noah Atubolu in the visitors’ goal got the faintest of touches to tip the shot onto a post.

Two minutes later, the Germans doubled their lead when Weiss turned cleverly inside the area to drill his low shot past Corcoran.

It was then all but game over in the 67th minute as Germany stretched their advantage. 

Festy Ebosele was adjudged to have tripped Lemperle inside the area with substitute Kerim Calhanoglu scoring emphatically from the resulting penalty.

Ireland got some reward for their endeavour three minutes later. Ebosele did well on the left to cross for Everitt to score with a diving header.

Marton Dardai added Germany’s fourth goal two minutes from time, as he headed home at the near post from Calhanoglu’s free kick.

Speaking after the game, Ireland Under-17 Head Coach Colin O'Brien was happy with his side's performances in the three games.

"We got what we needed from the past few weeks. These games replicated what we will face in the European Finals. The players mightn't see it now, but the past fortnight has been invaluable.

"We've been in every game, but there are a few things that we need to eradicate. They're all very fixable, so there is plenty to work on for the players in the next few months.

"The players have learned about the fine margins at this level. We need to be more clinical, but there are so many positives to take."

Ireland Under-17s return to action in the Spring as preparations continue for the UEFA Under-17 European Championship.

Republic of Ireland: Jimmy Corcoran; Thomas Considine, Timi Sobowale, Luke Turner, Seamus Keogh (capt); Ronan McKinley (Sean Kennedy 72), Joe Hodge, Brandon Holt; Matt Everitt, Conor Carty, Festy Ebosele 

Germany: Noah Atubolu; Lasse Rosenboom (Adrien Koudelka 51), Jannis Lang, Marton Dardai, Luca Netz (Kerim Calhanoglu 46); Lars Kehl, Malik Tillman (capt) (Jordan Meyer 46), Jetmir Ameti (Marco John 46); Marvin Weiss, Ware Pakia (Nick Woltemade 74), Tim Lemperle

Referee: Nicholas Walsh (SCO)

Conor Doherty and Anita Hegarty led their team to victory last season and it was the Carndonagh crew who retained their title in devastating fashion.

The Inishowen qualifiers opened their account against an impressive St. Louis SS, Carrickmacross but the Carn ladies were convincing winners in a spirited contest. This empathic start was followed up by 4-0 conquest over local rivals Loreto, Letterkenny. The final points were collected courtesy of a 4-1 victory over Cavan side Loreto College. What a display from the Carndonagh squad ensuring three wins from three with 15 goals scored and only a brace conceded. A powerful performance which should see them do well at the next stage of competition.

Monaghan’s St. Louis SS were runners up having bounced back from their heavy defeat to Carndonagh to win 2-0 against their Cavan counterparts and a wonderful 3-2 assault of Loreto Letterkenny in a magnificent exhibition from both teams to end a brilliant outing for the teams involved. 

The boys contest was so evenly matched that there was a tie following the three group games. Monaghan school Coláiste Oiriall were out of contention following a 4-1 defeat at the hands of St. Columba’s College while they lost out by a single goal against St. Patrick’s College, Cavan in a 13 goal thriller! It was goals galore as the Monaghan side went down 5-8 to Scoil Mhuire, Buncrana in their final outing.

Three teams were level on six points as Scoil Mhuire were victorious over St. Patrick’s College but lost out to St. Columba’s while the Stranorlar lads lost 4-2 to a determined St. Patrick’s side.

With their head to head results all complied and levelled, it was down to a three way penalty shoot-out to decide the winner.

Buncrana’s Scoil Mhuire were knocked out after the spot kick showdown only converting one from three.

This left both St. Patrick’s College and St. Columba’s College holding their own with 2 apiece.

With the final two going head to head in the penalty area, it was St. Columba’s College who got the upper hand. They secured the title in dramatic style defeating St. Patrick’s College 4-3 in the end.

Carndonagh Community School and St. Columba’s College, Stranorlar will progress to the National Finals which will take place in Waterford IT Sports Arena on December 4.

LIST OF PARTICIPATING SCHOOLS
MONAGHAN
Girls | St. Louis Secondary School, Carrickmacross
Boys | Coláiste Oiriall

CAVAN
Girls | Loreto College
Boys | St. Patrick’s College

DONEGAL
Girls | Loreto SS, Letterkenny
Boys | St. Columba’s College, Stranorlar

INISHOWEN
Girls | Carndonagh Community School
Boys | Scoil Mhuire SS, Buncrana

Too often throughout his career there was talk of what Whelan should have been rather than what he was. Perhaps there are more than a few of us guilty of not fully appreciating what certain managers saw in the Dubliner. After all, someone doesn't clock up close to 300 appearances over eight successive seasons in the English Premier League without consistently delivering something of note.

Whelan is a complicated case study for most Ireland supporters, but he shouldn't be. Ever since he earned a move to Manchester City's academy and started to represent Ireland at underage level, he did one thing really well: pass the ball. Okay, he wasn't regularly slicing defences open with penetrative balls through but he ensured that his team got moving.

To use the Premier League again as an example, Whelan recorded 11,241 successful passes during his time with Stoke City. That tops the charts of any Irish player but also eclipses Manchester City's Fernandinho, Manchester United's Juan Mata, and, even, Chelsea's Eden Hazard. Not bad going for a kid from Palmerstown, Dublin.

A guardian of the defence, a gatekeeper to transition play, and a hoarder of possession, Whelan was the midfielder that Ireland so desperately needed when Giovanni Trapattoni was appointed as manager in 2008. He was the perfect partner for Keith Andrews, who had a more attacking streak in his game, and he was comfortable operating within a confined radius on the pitch.

Critics will still try to suggest that previous occupants of the same position offered more, such as John Sheridan's long-range passing or Andy Townsend's lung-bursting runs, but football had moved on and Whelan needed to be disciplined rather than expressive. Sure, he could strike a ball - check out his goals against Georgia and Italy - but that wasn't his modus operandi. The team needed him to hang back, link play and stop the opposition.

Every modern team needs a player like Whelan. Sometimes they are anchored between the defence and midfield and sometimes they are deployed in a two or three-man midfield. Whatever their starting position is, the key to success is how they complete the task of getting the ball moving for their team and stopping it from exposing their defence and goalkeeper. There have been some masters of this in the modern game, such as Claude Makelele and Sergio Busquets. They are the cog in the machine around which all cylinders are enabled to fire at maximum speed.

Whelan, who now plays his club football for Aston Villa, has also been unfairly overlooked for his knack of breaking down opposition attacks. More often than not, he finds himself in the right place to nick the ball out from the feet of an attacker or make an important tackle that disrupts the rhythm of their play.

Without having someone like that in the midfield, a team can be exposed for its fragility. Whelan does it really well and helped Ireland to achieve some big results by doing the little things that most people would not take notice of. Maybe that is his calling card: getting business done without making much of a fuss.

Still, on Thursday, we get an opportunity to show our appreciation for a player who has given everything for the green jersey. On his 85th senior cap, it feels an apt time to say thank you!

By Gareth Maher

The two Associations have a recent history of working closely together, including the launch to co-host the 2023 UEFA Under-21 European Championships, and that relationship was on show to the 300 guests in attendance at the function in the Mansion House.

At the Dinner, President Michael D. Higgins was joined by FAI President Donal Conway, Irish FA David Martin, FAI CEO John Delaney, Irish FA CEO Patrick Nelson, NIO Minister Lord Ian Duncan, Minister of State for Tourism and Sport, Brendan Griffin, Co-operation Ireland Board members and Ambassadors.

FAI CEO John Delaney said: "I'd like to thank Co-operation Ireland for organising this Dinner. This function is an illustration of both Associations working together and shows that our relationship has never been as good in developing football.

"I was invited to attend the Irish FA AGM in Enniskillen in June, where I received a very warm reception. Then the FAI hosted Irish FA President David Martin at our Delegates Dinner and AGM in Cork in August, where he received a standing ovation from 420 of our members. And just two weeks ago, we jointly announced a bid to co-host the UEFA Under-21 European Championships in 2023.

"There have been a number of initiatives that both Associations have worked on together, including the President's Junior Cup between North End United and Enniskillen Rangers, and we will continue to develop football together.

"As leaders in sport, we must always have children in mind when developing the future of the game. It is amazing how the round ball can bring people closer and it is now bringing two Associations on this island closer together."

About Co-operation Ireland
Co-operation Ireland is an all-island peace-building charity. Since it was established in 1979 as Co-operation North, we have worked to encourage and promote interaction, dialogue and practical collaboration within Northern Ireland and between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. 

Tickets

FAI Ticket Collections will be open from 14:00 until kick-off at Lansdowne Rugby Club

Ticketmaster will have two vans outside Aviva Stadium from 16:00 to purchase tickets.

Tickets can be purchased online - Click here to purchase tickets

Season Tickets

2017/18 Season ticket cards WILL NOT WORK at the turnstiles tomorrow.
2018/19 Season Ticket Holders should use their current season ticket to gain entry.
Anyone who did not renew their season ticket has been sent a link to download a paper ticket to gain access to the game.

General

All food and beverage outlets will be open throughout the stadium from 18:15 for General Admission tickets and from 17:45 for Premium Level ticket holders. Supporters are encouraged to be in the stadium at least one hour early to soak up the pre-match atmosphere. 

Safety & Security
Supporters travelling to Aviva Stadium are advised to arrive at least one hour ahead of kick-off to get through security and they are reminded of new security measures:

- Aviva Stadium Management are introducing a “No Bag Policy” to all events in the stadium

- It is important that supporters do not bring any bags or rucksacks to the game

- Searching procedures will be in place at all entry points and because of this it is advisable all supporters arrive a little earlier than normal

- Extra Safety & Security measures will be in place at this fixture

Match Programme
Don’t forget to pick up the official match programme, which is the ultimate souvenir item from today’s game. This collector’s edition includes exclusive artwork, insightful features, a four-page Kids Zone, profile of today’s opponents and much more.

Social Media 
For all breaking news including the exclusive announcement of the Republic of Ireland starting XI and behind-the-scenes content, follow our official Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube accounts

Ireland 7-0 Greece

In a torrential downpour, Ireland competently put Greece to the sword at Zocalo.  Both teams struggled with the slippery conditions however Ireland's class began to show early on. 
Goalkeeper Jordan O'Reilly’s distribution again was impeccable and from a move that involved all players, Ken Kinsella struck from his favourite left wing after an incisive pass from Anthony Madden.

Kinsella added a second from a penalty and Greece's fate was sealed when Madden scored a brace. Daniel Moore wrapped up the scoring in the first half.  The second half saw Ireland contain Greece and played the conditions well. O'Reilly saved well from a penalty before well taken goals from Gavin Dowling and Eddie Madigan eased Ireland through with eyes fixed firmly on top spot and a showdown this afternoon with Romania

Romania 5-10 Ireland 

Ireland started well on slippery surface dictating play and peppering the Romanian goal with volley of shots. The Romanians looked dangerous on the break and O'Reilly had to save smartly a couple times.  Romania broke the deadlock with well taken goal and Ireland knew they were in a game.  They met the challenge head on and replied with a couple from Dowling who just owned the pitch.

Kinsella chipped in with a couple of classy goals from his now trade mark left flank. Romania had pulled the score back to 3-2, Dowling was appearing everywhere like a man possessed but always in control. He scored a magnificent solo effort leaving three Romanians on the deck. He scored his fourth after the Romanians had pulled another back to leave the score 6-3 at the break. 

The second half saw Ireland continue with a confidence and Tomas Dinan slotted home nicely before Romania scored two quick goals to let everyone know they were still a threat.  Dowling appeared to takeoffence to this and again went on the attack scoring his fifth and sixth to give Ireland a comfortable finish to the game.  Some encouraging things to observe is the confidence and combination play throughout the team. 

O'Reilly played like a quarterback while Ed Madigan’s ability to hold off tackles and link the play is superb. Ireland go forward to the draw as group winners and although there will be tougher challenges ahead the skill determination and temperament they have shown so far means they need fear no-one

The Tubbercurry outfit were defending Champions in the girls division so there was plenty of pressure on the host team to deliver on the provincial stage as they faced Dominican College, Taylor’s Hill in their opening clash. The new look side were inspiring and enjoyed a comfortable 5-2 victory over their talented opponents. Little did they realise that this would be the crucial game to decide the winner.

St. Attracta’s dispensed of Manorhamilton crew St. Clare’s 3-0 while they dropped points in their penultimate game against St. Joseph’s SS, Foxford when they finished 3 apiece. The Sligo Champions refocused and came out 5-1 winners against Roscommon’s Mercy Convent with 10 points bagged.

Dominican College were equally as impressive with three wins under their belts, the crucial defeat right at the start of proceedings ensured runners up spot on the day as they finished on nine points. Not a bad outing for the Galway girls.

St. Attacta’s Community School will now look forward to the National qualifiers which saw them grab a silver medal last season in Waterford. Can they go one better on December 4? Carndonagh Community School who also qualified last season will be joining them as they came through the provincial ranks in Letterkenny. The Munster and Leinster deciders will take place next week to determine their opposition. 

St. Attracta’s had the unique opportunity of securing double Cup success as the boys lined out this afternoon. They were up against some solid competitors with defending Champions St. Joseph’s College, Galway also in contention. It was these two teams that kick started the event which finished scoreless. A rare result given the amount of goal scoring chances created by both teams. 

Out of the ten group games, five ended in draws which left things interesting.

The next game saw St. Louis CS finish all square with CBS Roscommon on a 2-2 scoreline but it was St. Attracta’s CS who got off the mark when they finish 4-1 winners against Mohill CC to take a slight lead in proceedings.

The Bish drew two all then with CBS Roscommon while St. Louis pulled off a narrow 3-2 win over St. Attacta’s to claim a little momentum in the table.

The Leitrim lads surprised the title holders when they came out 3-2 winners while St. Louis gained some confidence and took another value three points, this time as the expense of Mohill defeating them 4-1.

Another two draws followed with St. Attracta’s and CBS Roscommon level with two each while St. Louis and the Bish shared the spoils in a six goal thriller. CBS Roscommon rounded off the day with a slender 2-1 victory over Mohill to take their tally to 6 points.

With plenty of challengers dropping points to each other, it was St. Louis Community School who edged it on eight points with two wins and two draws. Runners up CBS Roscommon saw them pick up silver following one win and three draws in the drama filled outing.

St. Joseph’s College finished with five points secured, and thus relinquished their provincial crown as well as ambitions at National level which saw them finish fourth last season. No doubt, the Kiltimagh squad will relish the opportunity afforded to them to progress to the next stage. Ulster Champions, St. Columba’s College, Stranorlar booked their place in the showcase when they came through their qualifier on Tuesday. The duo will now await the winners of the Munster and Leinster competitions next week when they take to the courts.  

LIST OF PARTICIPATING SCHOOLS
GALWAY
Girls | Dominican College, Taylor’s Hill
Boys | St. Joseph’s College (the Bish)

SLIGO
Girls | St. Attracta’s Community School, Tubbercurry
Boys | St. Attracta’s Community School, Tubbercurry

ROSCOMMON
Girls | Mercy Convent
Boys | CBS Roscommon

LEITRIM
Girls | St. Clare’s Comprehensive School, Manorhamilton
Boys | Mohill Community College

MAYO
Girls | St. Joseph’s SS, Foxford
Boys | St. Louis Community School, Kiltimagh

The Exhibition will open to the public on the day of the Qualifying Draw for UEFA EURO 2020 - Sunday, December 2nd. It will be open until December 9th before traveling to seven venues around Ireland throughout 2019 and 2020 and returning to Dublin for the finals. Details of locations are below. 

The Exhibition is made up of six zones, with each zone designed to give you an overview of the various different aspects of football in Ireland, the impact this has around the country, some of your favourite and most memorable National and International moments and a look at some of the most iconic moments over the last 60 years of The EUROs. The zones will be made up of memorabilia displays and interactive stations with videos, quizzes and an opportunity to step up to the mic and record your own commentary. 

A National Football Exhibition App will soon be available to download and it will contain additional information and an audio guide to help bring the exhibition to life during your visit. 

Printworks, Dublin Castle Opening Times

Sunday December 2nd– 11:00 – 19:00

Monday December 3rd– 11:00 – 19:00

Tuesday December 4th– 11:00 – 19:00

Wednesday December 5th- 11:00 – 19:00

Thursday December 6th- 11:00 – 17:00

Friday December 7th- 11:00 – 21:00

Saturday December 8th- 11:00 – 21:00

Sunday December 9th- 11:00 – 21:00

Additional Venues

Sligo – February 2019

Cork – March 2019 

Limerick – June 2019 

Waterford – August 2019 

Donegal – September 2019 

Dundalk – February 2020 

Galway – March 2020

Dublin – June 2020 

Captain Barry Coffey gave Jim Crawford's side an early lead in the Pinatar Arena when his shot defeated Belgian goalkeeper Maxime Delanghe.

In the first of two penalties, Laurens Symons scored for the Belgians of the half-hour to ensure the teams went into the break level.

After the break, Tyriek Wright scored from the spot beating Delanghe to ensure Crawford's side won.

Speaking after the win, Under-18 Head Coach Jim Crawford said his side were full value for the win.

"We created plenty of chances and defended really well. The players done themselves and their country proud, with a performance against one of Europe's best.

"Our first half performance was so good, I was disappointed we didn't go into the break in the lead. In the second half, we held on to the lead. The boys defended fantastically."

The team return to action on Saturday afternoon against England.

Belgium: Maxime Delanghe, Richard Makutungu, Lars Dendoncker, Wout Coomans, Pierre Diedhiou, Milan De May, Adnan Ugur, Dylan Mbayo, Jamie Yayi Mpie, Evangelos Patoilidis, Laurens Symons

Republic of Ireland: Kian Clarke; Max Murphy, Kameron Ledwidge, Oisin McEntee, Reece Staunton; Tyriek Wright (Adam Idan 76), Barry Coffey (Jason Knight 46), Luca Connell, Callum Thompson (Marc Walsh 65); Sean Brennan (Conor Grant 87), Jake Ellis (Shane Flynn 46).

Referee: Jose Joaquin Gallego Gambin

Photo courtesy of Pinatar Arena

Paul Osam's side need to win their final match of the tournament and hope Northern Ireland fail to win against Wales to claim their third successive Victory Shield title. 

After an impressive campaign for Bohemians in the SSE Airtricity National U15 League, O'Brien was named as captain for the tournament in Tralee, Kerry.

The former St. Kevin's Boys man hopes to cap off a memorable week by lifting the Victory Shield and has spoke of his immense pride playing for Ireland.

"It has been unbelievable. Playing for Ireland is incredible for me, my family and my club as well. It's the best thing I've done in my life," said O'Brien. 

"It was a great performance against Wales and we deserved the win. We didn't do ourselves justice in the first match against Northern Ireland, we knew we should have played better.

"We've got to take the performance from yesterday into tomorrow's game and hope the other result goes our way. We've got to concentrate on our own performance and we're looking forward to it."

Goals from Oliver O'Neill (2), Louie Barry and Andrew Moran secured a 4-0 win over Wales for Ireland before 10-men Northern Ireland fought back to secure a 1-1 draw against Scotland in the second round of fixtures. 

O'Brien was an integral part of Bohemians' U15 squad this campaign and he says he thoroughly enjoyed his first season in the SSE Airtricity National U15 League. 

"I've definitely improved during the season. You're playing the best players every week and it was great for me," O'Brien continued.

"I had a few injuries and my attitude dropped with it but I came through it and I'm definitely better for it. To get selected for the national team after the season is incredible.

"It's been a great year for me, playing for Bohemians and Ireland, but I've got to keep going and look to progress every year."

- Glenn Whelan will make his 85th senior cap (he is now the 10th most capped Ireland player of all time)

- This will be the sixth time that Glenn Whelan has led the team out as captain

- It will be five years to the day that Martin O'Neill will have taken charge of the Republic of Ireland (Ireland beat Latvia 3-0 in that first game)

- Martin O'Neill has used 63 players in five years with 26 players earning their first caps

- This year has seen 42 different players come into five camps (10 new caps, 9 other players who have trained with the squad)

- Ireland goalkeeper Darren Randolph will equal Gerry Peyton's all-time clean record of 11, should he not concede

- Ireland winger James McClean will equal Ian Harte's all-time goals record of 11, should he score

- There are three uncapped players in the Ireland squad: Caoimhin Kelleher, Ronan Curtis, Michael Obafemi

- Should Michael Obafemi make his senior debut, he will become the first player born in 2000 to do so

- Ireland have played Northern Ireland 10 times overall (Ireland have won 4, drawn 4, lost 2)

The Republic of Ireland warmed up for their crucial UEFA Nations League match against Denmark with a hard-fought 0-0 draw with Northern Ireland at the Aviva Stadium on Thursday evening.

Glenn Whelan captained the side in what will more than likely be his 85th and final cap for the Boys in Green but his international career wouldn’t end on a winning note.

Michael O’Neill’s side ought to have taken the lead in the 14th minute as Gavin Whyte raced onto Stuart Dallas’ neat lay off but he was denied by a stunning save from Darren Randolph when through on goal.

The Republic’s best opportunities of a tight first half came from set pieces but neither Shane Duffy nor Darragh Lenihan could direct their respective headers from Robbie Brady’s frees past the visiting keeper.

The North finished the opening period strongly but Stuart Dallas’ low drive from the edge of the area was well saved by Randolph before Michael Smith flashed a powerful attempt narrowly over seconds before the half-time whistle was blown by the referee.

Martin O’Neill’s side threatened to edge in front just shy of the hour mark but Callum Robinson fired over James McClean’s dragged shot after the Derry native had initially been picked out by a superb cross from Seamus Coleman.

In the end, they needed further heroics from Randolph – who was voted man of the match- to ensure that they didn’t head into Monday’s match away to the Danes having suffered a demoralising defeat.

The Middlesbrough shot-stopper remained calm when substitute Jordan Jones burst clear on goal with 18 minutes remaining and he was somehow able to turn the goal-bound effort over his crossbar with his outstretched leg.

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND: Darren Randolph; Seamus Coleman, Darragh Lenihan (Cyrus Christie 84), Shane Duffy, John Egan, James McClean (Enda Stevens 66); Glenn Whelan (Conor Hourihane 36), Jeff Hendrick, Robbie Brady, Callum O’Dowda (Ronan Curtis 45); Callum Robinson (Sean Maguire 66 (Scott Hogan 79)).

NORTHERN IRELAND: Bailey Peacock-Farrell; Michael Smith (Jamie Ward 74), Craig Cathcart, Jonny Evans, Jamal Lewis; Steven Davis, George Saville; Gavin Whyte (Jordan Jones 61), Corry Evans (Paddy McNair 65), Stuart Dallas; Liam Boyce (Kyle Lafferty 71).

Austria 3-2 Ireland

Ireland lost out in a nailbiter of a game to young Austrian outfit.  Early on Ireland went two goals down against the run of play. 

They outplayed Austria for much of the game but thanks to some incredible heroics from the Austrian keeper they managed to keep Ireland at bay despite numerous efforts from Ken Kinsella, Eddie Madigan and captain Gavin Dowling who was as energetic and skillful as ever if not as clinical. 

With the introduction of Tomás Dinan however things turned in favour of the boys in green, pulling one back and then creating a chance wide on the right which Dinan finished with a fierce low drive into the far corner. 

This brought Ireland level and the rhythm reappeared as they dominated and pressed for a winner when a mistake in the oppositions half let Austria through on goal and gave Jordan O'Reilly who had another fine game no chance. Despite Ireland's total dominance the Austrian defence stood firm with an incredible performance from their keeper who received the Man of the Match award from referee Harry Milas 

Portugal 5-1 Ireland

In the midday cauldron of Zocala, Ireland were put to the sword by a clinical Portuguese outfit.  They were young athletic and fit and although the scoreline would suggest a totally dominant performance this was far from true. 

 Portugal were clever in possession and clinical in finishing in the first half.  Jordan O'Reilly again was impressive but was left helpless on two occasions. The second half started much the same as the first but on the break Portugal scored their third with brilliantly measure curling shot into the corner of O'Reilly ’s net from the left wing.

Gavin Dowling scored a battling goal against another goalkeeper who had an outstanding game to give Ireland hope. However the Portuguese took the heat out of the game with impressive posession and the wind out of the Irish sails with two more clinical finishes.  This leaves Ireland with a mountain to climb in order qualify for the Premier competition but it is not yet beyond them.

Ireland missed a number of huge opportunities to win the game as Louie Barry missed a penalty in the second-half to finish the tournament on four points. Northern Ireland lifted the Victory Shield following their 3-1 win over Wales to win the group with seven points. 

It was a dominant performance from Paul Osam's side and the Head Coach would have been questioning how his side didn't take the lead throughout the 90 minutes. 

Just three minutes into the game, Scotland failed to clear a Ben McCormack corner but goalkeeper Jay Hogarth somehow saved Oliver O'Neill's point-blank shot from three yards out. 

Four minutes later, Shamrock Rovers' Oisin Hand missed another opportunity. Adam Wells' floated free-kick from the left found Hand in acres of space but he somehow put his header wide.

Ireland continued to dominate and their third goal-scoring chance came just past the half-hour. Barry had two attempts in a minute, the first blocked before he turned his defender, only to see his shot deflected wide.

Willed on by the Kerry crowd, Ireland continued to create chances in the second-half. In the 62nd minute, Barry run inside off the right and hit the near-post with his curling effort, only to see the ball roll across the line to safety.

Three minutes later, Colin Conroy's lofted-ball over the defence saw Barry in again but after controlling, Hogarth got down well to deny the West Bromwich Albion striker from eight yards out. 

With 10 minutes remaining, Ireland had their best chance to take the lead from the spot. Barry was fouled inside the area and referee Ray Matthews pointed to the spot. Barry stepped up but he placed his effort wide of the left-hand post as the game somehow remained scoreless.

Despite failing to defend their Victory Shield title, Head Coach Paul Osam praised the performance and the progression of the players over the course of the week.

"I thought we were outstanding. That was the best performance by any team I've been involved with at this level," Osam said.

"I'm disappointed that we didn't win the game but we created at least seven huge opportunities to score and sometimes, that happens in football. I thought the team carried out their instructions to a tee and the whole squad deserves tremendous credit for a fantastic week.

"We were disappointed with ourselves in the first game but the response from that, the win against Wales and today, has been fantastic. I'm excited about this group, we've got a few players missing as well and there is always room for improvement but they're a great group who want to learn.

"It's been a brilliant week for us and I'd like to thank all of the players, staff and the volunteers down here for their efforts."

Scotland: Jay Hogarth; Lyall Booth (Liam Morrison 64), Leon King (C), Liam Smith, Jaden Ferguson (Adam Brooks 41), Christopher Mochrie (Michael Craig 51), Alex Lowry (Matthew Craig 41), Calvin Ramsey, Kevin Hanratty, MacKenzie Lamb, Jayden Fairley (Cole McKinnon 41).

Republic of Ireland: Daniel Rose; Gavin O'Brien, Oisin Hand, CJ Egan-Riley, Colin Conroy, Ben McCormack (Andrew Moran 62), Sinclair Armstrong, Louie Barry, Adam Wells, Oliver O'Neill, Jamie Doyle (Oran Crowe 62). 

Referee: Ray Matthews. 

2018 Victory Shield Results

12/11: Scotland 1-1 Wales, St. Brendan's Park
12/11: Republic of Ireland 1-3 Northern Ireland, Mounthawk Park

14/11: Republic of Ireland 4-0 Wales, Mounthawk Park
14/11: Northern Ireland 1-1 Scotland, Mounthawk Park

16/11: Scotland 0-0 Republic of Ireland, Mounthawk Park
16/11: Wales 1-3 Northern Ireland, Mounthawk Park

Defender John Egan (calf), midfielder Alan Browne (shoulder), and forward Sean Maguire (hamstring) all miss out, while both Glenn Whelan and James McClean are also out after featuring in the scoreless draw with Northern Ireland.

Former Under-21 international Jimmy Dunne has been drafted into the senior squad for the first time. The defender, who is on loan at Hearts from Burnley, will link up with the Ireland players on Saturday ahead of their departure to Aarhus.

Manchester United defender Lee O'Connor (pictured above) will also be in the travelling party after impressing in training at FAI National Training Centre this week.

Republic of Ireland Squad
Goalkeepers: Darren Randolph, Colin Doyle, Caoimhin Kelleher
Defenders: Seamus Coleman, Cyrus Christie, Richard Keogh, Shane Duffy, Kevin Long, Darragh Lenihan, Jimmy Dunne, Lee O'Connor, Enda Stevens
Midfielders: Robbie Brady, Jeff Hendrick, Conor Hourihane, Harry Arter, David Meyler, Shaun Williams, Callum O'Dowda
Forwards: Scott Hogan, Callum Robinson, Aiden O'Brien, Ronan Curtis, Michael Obafemi