Head Coach Tom Mohan made wholesale changes to the team, after qualification was assured for the UEFA Under-19 European Championships at the weekend, and his side impressed against the hosts.

Defender Mark McGuinness scored on the stroke of half-time to give Ireland the lead, and the three points were assured on the hour-mark as Ali Reghba found the back of the net.

With wins over Bosnia and Herzegovina, Faroe Islands and the Netherlands in the Qualifying Round, and Romania, Azerbaijan and Russia in the Elite Round, Ireland are the only side to win six games from six en route to the Tournament Finals in Armenia, in July.

Ireland were the first team to qualify for the Finals, and are the only team in Europe to do so with a 100% record.

Speaking after the game, Head Coach Tom Mohan was proud of the effort put in by his team today.

“We made a lot of changes of today. There were nine changes from the team on Saturday. It was a great opportunity to give fresh players a chance. They were hungry to impress and wanting to prove themselves. It’s proven to be a really strong group effort this week.”

Mohan praised the efforts of all the players’ coaches at all levels that have helped the squad develop throughout the years.

“To the people that have worked with these players as children, right through to where they are today, it’s a fantastic night for them and for everyone involved with the players.”

Russia: Maksim Borisko; Aleksandr Mikhailov (Artem Giurdzhan 46), Ilya Martynov, Pavel Maslov, Rail Abdullin; Vladimir Moskvichev, Danila Yanov, Vladislav Karapuzov (Dmitri Molchanov 46), Nail Umyarov; Rustam Khalnazarov (Danila Proshliakov 46), Gamid Agalarov (Ilya Gomanyuk 46)

Republic of Ireland: George McMahon; Tom Gaston, Oisin McEntee, Mark McGuinness, Luca Connell (Tyreik Wright 61); Niall Morahan, Conor Grant (Jason Knight 82), Aaron Bolger (capt); Festy Ebosele (Jonathan Afolabi 68), Ali Reghba, Richard O’Farrell (Will Smallbone 82)

Referee: Adam Farkas (HUN)

Head Coach Tom Mohan made wholesale changes to the team, after qualification was assured for the UEFA Under-19 European Championships at the weekend, and his side impressed against the hosts.

Defender Mark McGuinness scored on the stroke of half-time to give Ireland the lead, and the three points were assured on the hour-mark as Ali Reghba found the back of the net.

With wins over Bosnia and Herzegovina, Faroe Islands and the Netherlands in the Qualifying Round, and Romania, Azerbaijan and Russia in the Elite Round, Ireland are the only side to win six games from six en route to the Tournament Finals in Armenia, in July.

Ireland were the first team to qualify for the Finals, and are the only team in Europe to do so with a 100% record.

Speaking after the game, Head Coach Tom Mohan was proud of the effort put in by his team today.

“We made a lot of changes of today. There were nine changes from the team on Saturday. It was a great opportunity to give fresh players a chance. They were hungry to impress and wanting to prove themselves. It’s proven to be a really strong group effort this week.”

Mohan praised the efforts of all the players’ coaches at all levels that have helped the squad develop throughout the years.

“To the people that have worked with these players as children, right through to where they are today, it’s a fantastic night for them and for everyone involved with the players.”

Russia: Maksim Borisko; Aleksandr Mikhailov (Artem Giurdzhan 46), Ilya Martynov, Pavel Maslov, Rail Abdullin; Vladimir Moskvichev, Danila Yanov, Vladislav Karapuzov (Dmitri Molchanov 46), Nail Umyarov; Rustam Khalnazarov (Danila Proshliakov 46), Gamid Agalarov (Ilya Gomanyuk 46)

Republic of Ireland: George McMahon; Tom Gaston, Oisin McEntee, Mark McGuinness, Luca Connell (Tyreik Wright 61); Niall Morahan, Conor Grant (Jason Knight 82), Aaron Bolger (capt); Festy Ebosele (Jonathan Afolabi 68), Ali Reghba, Richard O’Farrell (Will Smallbone 82)

Referee: Adam Farkas (HUN)

While Germany topped the group and will progress to the next stage, the Irish squad were very pleased with their performance at the tournament, especially as they faced such a tough group.

A Blessing Kingsley goal gave Colin Bell's side victory today at Ainsley Park over a Scotland team who had been keen to not finish bottom of the group on home turf.

Ireland 'keeper, Courtney Maguire, also had a big part to play in the tie, making a fantastic save in the second half to keep her side on top.

Kingsley's goal came on the back of a Scottish defensive mistake, but the Wexford player had to keep her cool to slot home what turned out to be the decisive goal.

The wind had a impact on the quality of the game, with a number of shots going awry due to strong gusts.

And the Scottish certainly weren't going down without a fight and threw everything they had at the Irish team.

But Bell was happy with the professional manner in which his team dealt with the game and secured the three points.

"It was important to get the win. The girls showed great character today. It was the third game in just a few days, and along with the training, that lead to there being a few tired legs out there. But again the character and discipline was there and actually apart from that one good shot - which was excellently saved by Courtney - the Scots didn't have any other clear chances. We kept them out and contained them very well," said Bell.

As well as it being the final game of the group, Bell also acknowledged that the weather had a part to play in keeping the game tight.

"It was a strange one today. There were times there was nothing, but then it would come up in a gust. It pushes you into a defensive mode. The Scots were very keen to do something in the game, we could have been a little bit more effective in counter attack, but we did well."

Bell feels this has been an important tournament for the future of the Irish women's game.

He said: "We wanted to win this game, we wanted to finish it off with the three points. We'll have two or three, or maybe more, players coming out of this squad into the women's national team and that's what it is all about - continuing to develop and make progress."

Republic of Ireland: Courtney Maguire; Therese Kinnevey, Shauna Brennan, Eabha O'Mahony, Orla Prendergast (Mia Dodd 75), Emily Whelan, Aoibheann Clancy, Rebecca Cooke (Taylor White Maguire 92), Zara Foley, Della Doherty, Blessing Kingsley (Ellie Ferguson 92).

Scotland: Alicia Yates; Paige McAllister, Robyn McCafferty, Laura McCartney, Rebecca McAllister, Hannah Scott (Monica Forsyth 46), Eve McFadden (Eilidh Shore 46), Hannah Cunningham (Philippa McCallum 88), Jennifer Smith, Rosie McQuillian, Carly Girasol.

Referee: Briet Bragadottir (ISL)

Conor Hourihane scored the only goal of the game, a sublime free-kick just past the half-hour as Mick McCarthy's side secured six points from the opening two matches. 

In front of 40,317 at the Aviva Stadium, Ireland started the game with plenty of attacking intent, with a number of chances created in the opening stages of the game. 

With just eight minutes on the clock, Jeff Hendrick found space on the edge of the area and he was able to slide the ball into Seamus Coleman, but his cross was over the head of Robbie Brady at the back-post. 

Two minutes later, Ireland should have took the lead. A brilliant Hendrick tackle saw Hourihane latch onto the loose ball and after he carried the ball the edge of the area, he saw his low effort palmed away. 

Ireland continued to pressure the Georgian goal and finally got the goal their play deserved just past the half-hour. Man of the Match David McGoldrick was taken down 25 yards from goal and Hourihane stepped up to curl the ball around the wall and past keeper Giorgi Loria. 

The away side almost went into the break level but just like in the previous game against Gibraltar, Darren Randolph pulled off a crucial save. Two minutes into first-half stoppage time, Valerian Gvila was able to collect a knock-down 10 yards out and somehow, his powerful effort was palmed away by the impressive Randolph. 

Hendrick had a goal ruled out for offside early in the second-half and Enda Stevens could have sealed the points in the 68th minute. Stevens was able to get on the end of his own blocked cross inside the area but he pulled his shot wide. 

Two minutes later, McGoldrick almost got the goal his fantastic play deserved. James McClean's long-ball beat the Georgian defence and the Sheffield United striker ran in behind but after rounding the keeper, he couldn't direct his effort on target. 

Ireland defended stoutly in the final stages as Georgia were reduced to long-range efforts. With one of the long range efforts, Jaba Kankava let one fly from 25 yards and saw his curling effort hit the post and behind for a goal-kick.

It was the closest Georgia were to come to an equaliser as Ireland secured an important three points in their bid to qualify for UEFA EURO 2020. 

Republic of Ireland: Randolph (GK), Enda Stevens, Shane Duffy, Richard Keogh, Seamus Coleman (C), Glenn Whelan, Conor Hourihane, Jeff Hendrick, Robbie Brady (Aidan O'Brien 73), David McGoldrick (Matt Doherty 81), James McClean. 

Georgia: Giorgi Loria (GK), Otar Kakabadze (Tornike Okriashvili 85), Davit Khocholava (Levan Kharabadze 85), Guram Kashia, Solomon Kverkvelia, Nika Kvekveskiri, Jaba Kankava (C), Otar Kiteishvili, Giorgi Kvilitaia, Vato Arveladze (Valeri Qazaishvili 73), Valerian Gvilia. 

As part of his role as ambassador for the UEFA European Under-17 Championships, John O'Shea will put an Under-17 grassroots club through their paces in a behind-closed-doors practice.

O'Shea, capped 118 times for Ireland, holds the UEFA A Coaching Licence (the second-highest qualification in Europe) and he is considered to be amongst the rising stars in Irish coaching.

The former Ireland defender will put on a masterclass for a local team at the FAI National Training Centre on May 7 and help to teach them a few tricks & techniques to take back to their club with them.

"I'm really looking forward to this summer's Under-17 European Championships in Ireland. It is fantastic that we are hosting it and I hope that it will inspire the next generation of young players to follow their dreams," said O'Shea.

"One of the great advantages of hosting the tournament is promoting football around the country and this coaching session for a grassroots team will hopefully help them but also get other young players interested in what will surely be a fantastic tournament."

Any Under-17 team interested in availing of this needs to drum up as much support as possible on social media by using the hashtags #U17EURO and tagging @FAIreland

The most creative campaign from each province will be picked out before a final winner will be decided. So tell us why your team should get to win a masterclass with John O'Shea.

Paul Breen's squad will travel to Spain in July hoping to go all the way to lifting the trophy and the backing of Ryanair will certainly help them in that pursuit.

Ryanair’s Robin Kiely said: “Ryanair is proud to support the FAI Cerebral Palsy team for the upcoming CP World Cup in Spain this summer with a €20,000 donation, raised through the Ryanair Scratchcard initiative, which provides ongoing support to charities and worthy organisations across Europe. We wish coach Paul Breen and his team the very best for the World Cup. When it comes to football or low fares, you’ll never beat the Irish.” 

FAI Football For All National Coordinator, Oisin Jordan said: “Ryanair’s support for the Irish CP squad in their preparations for the World Cup with a cheque for €20,000 is really appreciated as it ensures the squad can prepare properly for the upcoming IFCPF World Cup in Seville, Spain. We are delighted to be partnering with Ryanair and look forward to potentially a longer partnership with this Irish squad.”

Connell has made four changes from the group that he brought to Rome for January's double-header of friendly games against Italy.

Bristol City striker Heather Payne (pictured above) will join up with the squad from the Women's National Team to bolster the attack, while Tiegan Ruddy, Michelle O'Driscoll and Niamh Reynolds are also among the 20 selected.

The squad has tough fixtures ahead of them, but are feeling confident about the challenge they face, according to Connell.

"They’re three tough games. The Spain game is built to be the toughest; I’m sure it will be. At the minute though, we’re focusing on Hungary, and hopefully we can take a positive result into the Serbian game. We want to go into the last game in a winner-takes-all scenario," said Connell.

And the two games in Italy in January will have been good preparation for the team, as they are facing the hosts, Spain, in the final tie of the tournament.

"We know that there is a difficult task ahead of us. We have the European champions in our group. It’s not going to be easy, but all the focus is on going into the last game with something to play for", Connell added.

"It’s been very difficult picking the squad. We have a couple of new girls in that weren’t in Lithuania for the Qualifying Round. Everyone is raring to go now. The team will be challenged in the opening games.

"I’ll be challenging them too. The best players are playing each other, and are training with each other. The WNL has been a huge asset to us in the Under-19s team. Long may it continue."

Republic of Ireland Women's Under-19 squad
Goalkeepers: Erica Turner (DLR Waves), Rachael Kelly (Shelbourne)
Defenders: Sadhbh Doyle (Galway Women's), Roisin McGovern (DLR Waves), Rachel Baynes (Galway Women's), Aoife Slattery (Wexford Youths), Leah Brady (Galway Women's), Katie Burdis (DLR Waves)
Midfielders: Lucia Lobato (Galway Women's), Megan Mackey (Brighton & Hove Albion), Chloe Singleton (Galway Women's), Tiegan Ruddy (Shelbourne), Sinead Donavan (Galway Women's)
Forwards: Alannah McEvoy (Shelbourne), Carla McManus (Kilkenny United), Kelly Brady (World Class), Heather Payne (Bristol City), Niamh Reynolds (Reading), Michelle O'Driscoll (Daytona State University), Keelin McEntee (DLR Waves).

UEFA Women's Under-19 European Championship - Elite Round
03/04 - Hungary v Republic of Ireland, Campo Municipal de A Lomba, KO 13:00 (12:00 Irish time)
06/04 - Republic of Ireland v Serbia, Campo Municipal de A Lomb,. KO 13:00 (12:00 Irish time)
09/04 - Republic of Ireland v Spain, San Lázaro, Santiago de Compostela, KO 18:30 (17:30 Irish time)

Announcing the squad that will travel to Italy for the friendly game, Bell said the tie is exactly the sort of game the players should be involved in as they step up preparations for the European Championship qualifiers which kick-off in September.

The 20-player squad will meet-up on Monday (April 1) for a four-day Irish-based camp ahead of travelling to Italy next Friday.

The match will take place in the Italian city of Reggio Emilia on Tuesday, April 9 at 18.30 (17.30 Irish time).

Frankfurt player, Emily Kraft was due to come into Bell's squad from the Under-17 team's recent Elite Round games in Scotland, but the 17-year-old suffered an ACL injured in the first game against Norway.

Bell said: "The initial squad that I picked had Emily Kraft in it, but obviously she's out with the ACL now, so Zara Foley's comes back in to the frame to replace Emily after doing very well with the Under-17s in Scotland.

"Heather Payne is not in the squad because she'll be strengthening the Under-19s playing in the Elite Round, otherwise Heather would definitely have been included, as she's now a regular starter in the team. So then we've got Rianna Jarrett (pictured above) coming in to replace Heather, not in the same position, but as another player. It's good to have Rianna coming back in, she's in good form for Wexford, and we'll be looking forward to seeing how she's recovered after a long injury, and to looking at her fitness and just to get her back into the frame."

As the Republic of Ireland will face Germany in the their qualifying group, Bell said it is important that the squad faces other top teams as they plan for the campaign.

"I'm hoping for a really good test against Italy, they're a really strong side so we are total outsiders in this one. But we want to compete against the best teams. We beat Wales in the last camp - they are a second seed in the Euros - now we're aiming to see if we can beat a first-seed team because we have Germany in our group, so we need to be comparing ourselves and battling against these kind of nations to be really prepared for the next campaign," said Bell.

Bell explained that preparations have now started in earnest in order to build a squad for the European Championship qualifiers.

He said: "Everything now needs to be really focused. In the last camp we could really tell that now that the draw had been made everybody was really programmed and focused and there was a really good buzz around the place, so we want to continue with that and build from that, keep the momentum going. All the energy that we have will now just be focused on this Euro campaign. 

"We need competition for places, it can't be a given that certain players are nominated all the time. Are they performing well enough, is their form good, are they playing for their clubs? But when we have a full squad, I think we have a very good side."

Republic of Ireland WNT squad v Italy
Goalkeepers: Marie Hourihan (Brighton and Hove Albion), Grace Maloney (Reading)
Defenders: Harriet Scott (Birmingham City), Louise Quinn (Arsenal), Niamh Fahey (Liverpool), Diane Caldwell SC Sand), Claire O'Riordan (MSV Duisburg), Megan Campbell (Manchester City), Zara Foley (Cork City), Eabha O'Mahoney (Cork City)
Midfielders: Tyler Toland (Kildrum Tigers), Megan Connolly (Brighton and Hove Albion), Denise O'Sullivan (North Carolina Courage0, Jessica Ziu (Shelbourne), Niamh Farrelly (Peamount)
Forwards: Amber Barrett (Peamount Uinted), Leanne Kiernan (West Ham United), Emily Whelan (Shelbourne), Katie McCabe (Arsenal), Rianna Jarrett (Wexford Youths)

Fixtures - International Friendly
09/04: Italy v Republic of Ireland, Mapei Stadium, Reggio Emilia, 18:30 (17:30 Irish time) 

The FAI and AVIVA have teamed up to offer free football camps this Easter to girls aged between 6 and 14 and as well as having the opportunity to improve their football skills all participants will also receive a limited edition Aviva Soccer Sisters jersey.

A number of free introductory coaching courses for parents and volunteers and a range of football blitzes will also be delivered across the country in a bid to grow the game at all levels.

Speaking at the launch earlier this month, Sue Ronan, Head of Women’s Football with the FAI, said; “The AVIVA Soccer Sisters Camps have played a significant part in the growth of our game over the past number of years.  The camps provide young girls with the opportunity to play in a fun, safe environment, something that is very important at that age and which helps to nurture a love for the game. 

"This year we aim to attract around 6,000 girls to the camps, with many going on to join their local club and becoming the future of women’s football in Ireland.”

Over a third of the camps are already booked out with record numbers to date. Camp places are limited and booking is only available online at www.soccersisters.ie
 

Fifteen of the 18-player squad ply their trade for home-based clubs with Bohemians, Bray Wanderers, Finn Harps, Shamrock Rovers, Sligo Rovers, St Patrick's Athletic, and Wexford all represented.

With the SSE Airtricity Under-15 League having gotten underway in recent weeks, the double-header for will act as a test for Donohoe's group who have already played five games so far this year, including two friendlies against Cyprus earlier this month.

Speaking ahead of the trip to the Czech Republic, Donohue said he is looking forward to working with the players for the final time, before they move to the Under-16s next year.

"This group has done really well this season. We got got wins against Poland and Hungary and good draws with Spain and the Netherlands. The maturity of this group and the style of football they have played has been a credit to their clubs," said Donohue.

"This is it for the lads at Under-15s. We made some changes to this squad, as we have done for every camp. We're looking forward to the two games, before the lads move onto Paul Osam's Under-16s."

The team play their first match against Czech Republic on April 2.

Republic of Ireland Under-15 squad
Goalkeepers: Aaron Maguire (Tottenham Hotspur), Jack Ross (Bray Wanderers)
Defenders: Tommy Fogarty (Birmingham City), Aaron O'Reilly (St Patrick's Athletic), John Ryan, Ben Curtis (Shamrock Rovers), Sean Grehan (Bohemians), Darragh Reilly (Sligo Rovers)
Midfielders: Sean Fitzpatrick (Wexford), Luke McGlynn (Finn Harps), Glory Nzingo (St Patrick's Athletic), Edwin Agabje (Shamrock Rovers), Jamie Mullins, Cian Kelly (Bohemians), Conor Barrett (Birmingham City)
Forwards: Evan Ferguson (Bohemians), Michael Leddy (Shamrock Rovers), Ben Quinn (St Patrick's Athletic)

International Friendlies
April 2: Czech Republic v Republic of Ireland, Stadium Prestice, KO 16:00 (15:00 Irish Time)
April 4: Czech Republic v Republic of Ireland, Stadium Dobrany, KO 11:00 (10:00 Irish Time)

Hosted by Con Murphy and Shelbourne winger Conan Byrne, the weekly show tackles all of the major issues concerning the domestic game and supplies a wide range of interesting guests, including President Michael D. Higgins and Republic of Ireland captain Seamus Coleman.

On the latest episode, RTE Head of Sport Declan McBennett explains all about television coverage, ratings, scheduling and why live broadcasts are so important, while Wexford Youths manager Tom Elmes gives an insight to the challenge of coaching in women's football.

The popular podcast is available to download every Sunday with the latest games reviewed, talking points discussed, and guests quizzed to provide a greater insight to the SSE Airtricity League.

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In 1998, Brian Kerr's squad of fresh-faced teenagers achieved the unthinkable by going all the way in the UEFA European Under-16 Championships in Scotland and lifted the trophy after a thrilling final win over Italy.

Amongst that squad were the likes of John O'Shea, Andy Reid, Jonathan Douglas, and the late Liam Miller. Some of them are now based in Ireland, others in the UK, while Kevin Grogan lives in the United States.

The Football Association of Ireland are working to bring the group of players back together for a ceremony to remember their success and tie it in with inspiring the current generation of Irish youngsters set to compete in the Under-17 EUROs.

As part of numerous promotional initiatives for this year's tournament, it is important to recognise what that 1998 squad achieved as they beat Finland, Spain, Denmark, Portugal, and Italy on their way to becoming champions.

While O'Shea is actively involved as official tournament ambassador, the other players (and staff members) will be invited to Dublin for a special function ahead of the Final on May 19 in Tallaght Stadium.

Here is a breakdown of what is happening...

What is it?
This is the official Finals Draw for the 2019 UEFA European Under-17 Championship, where 16 teams who have clinched qualification will discover their groups and opponents.

When is the Draw taking place?
The draw will take at 18:30 in Aviva Stadium on Thursday, April 4.

How can I follow the Draw as it happens?
The Draw will be livestreamed via the FAI Facebook page and updates will be posted across all FAI social media platforms, while UEFA will also cover the event.

Which teams are involved?
Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, England, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Netherlands, Portugal, Republic of Ireland, Russia, Spain, Sweden

When does the tournament kick off?
The first set of games are on May 3 and will run through to the final on May 19.

Where will the games be played?
The games will be spread across four counties in Dublin, Longford, Waterford and Wicklow, with the following venues being used: Carlisle Grounds, City Calling Stadium, RSC, Tallaght Stadium, Tolka Park, UCD Bowl, Whitehall Stadium. The final will be played in Tallaght Stadium.

Why are none of the games played in the likes of Cork, Galway or Sligo?
As per UEFA regulations, each venue needs to be within a specific radius from the team hotel. With all teams staying in CityWest Hotel, Dublin, the longest journeys will be to Longford and Waterford.

Where will the Republic of Ireland play their games?
Colin O'Brien's Under-17 team will play two of their group games in Tallaght Stadium and the other in the RSC, Waterford. 

How much are tickets for the games?
Prices start at €5 for adults, while Under-16s are permitted free entry (but need to have secured a ticket in advance). Tickets are available now by clicking here

Who is the tournament ambassador? Is there a tournament mascot?
Former Republic of Ireland international John O'Shea, who won this tournament in 1998 when it was graded at Under-16 level, is the official ambassador. The tournament mascot is Barry The Bodhrán, who was designed by 11-year-old Clara Hogan from County Wexford.

Are any special promotional initiatives taking place?
Schoolkids, from the four counties where they games will be played, will be encouraged to 'adopt a nation'. They will be able to learn all about different countries, get creative with artwork, learn new songs, and bring plenty of colour and atmosphere to the games where their 'adopted nation' will be playing. It will also help to provide that Irish welcome to all 16 teams competing in the tournament.

There will also be a trophy tour to specific schools with Barry The Bodhrán in attendance, while tournament ambassador John O'Shea will provide a behind-closed-doors coaching masterclass for a grassroots Under-17 team at the FAI National Training Centre.

Also, all teams competing in the SSE Airtricity Under-17 National League have been invited to games to get a closer look at their peers representing the top 16 nations in Europe and to undertake a match analysis task as they get to see tomorrow's stars today.

Any other information?
The finals will act as UEFA's qualifier for Europe's five berths at the 2019 FIFA Under-17 World Cup in Brazil later in the year.

Shamrock Rovers striker Michael Leddy scored the only goal of the game in the 60th minute as Jason Donohue's side claimed victory in the opening game of their friendly double-header. 

It was an impressive performance from the young side with nine of the starting XI from SSE Airtricity League clubs. Shamrock Rovers, Bohemians, Sligo Rovers, St. Patrick's Athletic and Finn Harps all had representatives in the starting line-up. 

There were few chances during the first 40 minutes but after the break, Ireland dominated the game and were excellent value for the victory. Shamrock Rovers striker Leddy was introduced at the break for St. Patrick's Athletic's Ben Quinn and provided the key moment with just under 20 minutes remaining. 

Ireland built up play with some precise passing movement and Leddy was eventually able to latch onto a through-ball before he found the bottom corner from just outside the area. 

Ireland defended well in the final stages of the game to seal an impressive victory ahead of their second international friendly match against Czech Republic on Thursday, April 4, with kick-off at 10am (Irish Time). 

Republic of Ireland U-15 Head Coach Jason Donohue said: "We've trained brilliantly since the beginning of the camp, a great response to the results in our last trip to Cyprus. 

"We started the game well but then we let them come back into the game and they were probably the better side towards the end of the first-half. We were much better after the break and fully deserved the victory in the end. 

"We'd worked on calming down in possession and building up play with an improved style. We want to play with a good intensity and you can definitely see that in the performance today. It was a fantastic finish from Michael Leddy and we probably could have scored a few more. 

"We'll be looking to use the full squad, we used 15 players out of 17 in the squad onto the pitch and the players who didn't start today will all start on Thursday. We want to get every player used to international football as it's crucial for their development." 

Republic of Ireland: Aaron Maguire (GK), Tommy Fogerty, John Ryan, Evan Ferguson, Darragh Reilly, Sean Grehan, Ben Quinn (Michael Leddy 41), Glory Nzingo (Conor Barrett 73), Cian Kelly, Jamie Mullins (Sean Fitzpatrick 59), Luke McGlynn (Zayd Abada 59).

Czech Republic: Petr Janota (GK), Daniel Samek, Ondrej Kukucka, Lukas Kos, Stepan Beran, Lukas Ambros, Enes Osmani, Albert Labik, David Jurcenko, David Tomeska, Adam Zapletal. 

Republic of Ireland Under-15 squad
Goalkeepers: Aaron Maguire (Tottenham Hotspur), Jack Ross (Bray Wanderers)
Defenders: Tommy Fogarty (Birmingham City), Aaron O'Reilly (St Patrick's Athletic), John Ryan, Ben Curtis (Shamrock Rovers), Sean Grehan (Bohemians), Darragh Reilly (Sligo Rovers)
Midfielders: Sean Fitzpatrick (Wexford), Luke McGlynn (Finn Harps), Glory Nzingo (St Patrick's Athletic), Edwin Agabje (Shamrock Rovers), Jamie Mullins, Cian Kelly (Bohemians), Conor Barrett (Birmingham City)
Forwards: Evan Ferguson (Bohemians), Michael Leddy (Shamrock Rovers), Ben Quinn (St Patrick's Athletic)

Dave Connell's side are based in the north-west of Spain, and will play Hungary on Wednesday before games against Serbia and the hosts Spain.

Roisin McGovern (pictured above) is one of four DLR Waves players in the squad, and has starred for the Dublin side in their opening matches in this season's Só Hotels WNL.

McGovern is the latest player to feature in the FAI's Club and Country series, and speaking in Spain ahead of the side's opener, the centre-half revealed the team have prepared well and that the first training session on Spanish soil was a success.

"We're all raring to go for the Hungary match. We had some of the girls as part of the Elite Round squad last year, so the experience they have brought to the squad and the sessions has been great."

With games to come against Hungary, Serbia and the reigning champions Spain, McGovern knows the side face a tough task to qualify for July's Finals in Scotland.

"We have to take it game by game, and if we win both of our opening matches, we can then focus on Spain. We need to focus on the first game to have any chance of qualifying."

Republic of Ireland Women's Under-19 squad
Goalkeepers: Erica Turner (DLR Waves), Rachael Kelly (Shelbourne)
Defenders: Sadhbh Doyle (Galway WFC), Roisin McGovern (DLR Waves), Rachel Baynes (Galway WFC),  Aoife Slattery (Wexford Youths), Leah Brady (Galway WFC), Katie Burdis (DLR Waves)
Midfielders: Lucia Lobato (Galway WFC), Megan Mackey (Brighton & Hove Albion), Chloe Singleton (Galway WFC), Tiegan Ruddy (CCSU), Sinead Donavan (Galway WFC)
Forwards: Alannah McEvoy (Shelbourne), Carla McManus (Kilkenny United), Kelly Brady (World Class), Heather Payne (Bristol City), Niamh Reynolds (Reading), Michelle O'Driscoll (Daytona State University), Keelin McEntee (DLR Waves).

UEFA Women's Under-19 European Championship - Elite Round
03/04 - Hungary v Republic of Ireland, Campo Municipal de A Lomba, KO 13:00 (12:00 Irish time)
06/04 - Republic of Ireland v Serbia, Campo Municipal de A Lomb,. KO 13:00 (12:00 Irish time)
09/04 - Republic of Ireland v Spain, San Lázaro, Santiago de Compostela, KO 18:30 (17:30 Irish time)

Originally, the tournament was graded at Under-16 level when it first started in 1982. Ireland did not take part until 1988 - the same year that the men's senior team qualified for their first ever major tournament.

In 1994, Ireland hosted the tournament with Turkey narrowly beating Denmark in the final in the RDS, and two years later they reached the quarter-finals only to be knocked out by France via a penalty shoot-out.

Ireland went all the way in 1998, under Head Coach Brian Kerr, as they overcame Finland, Spain, Denmark, Portugal, and Italy when the tournament was hosted in Scotland.

It was then re-graded to Under-17 level in 2002 and Ireland have reached three tournaments to date - one under the guidance of Tom Mohan in 2015, and two under Colin O'Brien in 2017 and 2018.

O'Brien led his team to the quarter-finals in both tournament appearances and he is now presented with an opportunity of bettering that result as Ireland qualify automatically as host nation for the 2019 staging of the games.

Republic of Ireland's Record
Appearances: 10
Best Finish: Champions (1998)
Best Result: Republic of Ireland 8-0 Liechtenstein, 19 October 2011

UEFA Under-16 Championships
1988: Group Stage
1992: Group Stage
1993: Group Stage
1994: Group Stage
1996: Quarter-finals
1998: Champions
2000: Group Stage

UEFA Under-17 Championships
2015: Group Stage
2017: Quarter-finals
2018: Quarter-finals

Dave Connell’s side struggled for chances in the opening half-hour, but took the lead on the half-hour mark. Heather Payne cut in from the right wing and ghosted past numerous Hungarian defenders before she was fouled in the box by Eszter Kovacs. 

The WNT international stepped up to the penalty spot to give Ireland the lead by sending goalkeeper Anna Terestyenyi the wrong way.

Ireland’s lead doubled six minutes later. Lucia Lobato cut in from the left wing, and her cross caused havoc in the six-yard box, with Terestyenyi and Rahel Varadi both struggling to keep it out of the net, before Varadi inadvertently hit it in.

The three points were all assured with just over 20 minutes left on the clock. Niamh Reynolds’ cross was dropped by Terestyenyi and Payne converted from close range.

As the clock entered added-time, substitute Carla McManus took advantage of some sloppy Hungarian defending to score from inside the area.

Speaking after the game, Head Coach Dave Connell said he was happy to start the Elite Round with a win.

“We know from past experiences that it can be difficult to qualify if you don't get anything out of the first game. Today’s win puts us in a good position. I’m delighted with the three points and the clean sheet.”

Connell stressed the importance of the 20-player squad in trying to qualify from the Elite Round. He was delighted with the goalscoring performance of Carla McManus in her 10 minutes on the pitch.

“I love a player with a point to prove. She came on and worked her own goal, by robbing the ball and putting it into the back of the net. We know it's going to take the 20-players to qualify.

Ireland return to Elite Round action on Saturday afternoon against Serbia.

Hungary: Anna Terestyenyi; Antonia Andre (Viktoria Bodai 46), Rahel Varadi, Laura Kovacs (capt), Alexandra Gyorik; Virag Nagy, Lily Farkas (Vivien Pintyre 71), Eszter Kovacs;  Sara Pusztai, Brigitta Pulins, Fanni Vachter (Dora Dorner 71).

Republic of Ireland: Rachael Kelly; Rachel Baynes (Aoife Slattery 64), Sadhbh Doyle, Roisin McGovern, Lucia Lobato; Megan Mackey (capt), Tiegan Ruddy (Carla McManus 80), Niamh Reynolds; Heather Payne, Alannah McEvoy (Chloe Singleton 80), Michelle O’Driscoll (Kelly Brady 55).

Referee: Graziella Pirriatore (ITA).

Austria
Runners-up in the Elite Round, behind Italy, the Austrians enjoyed a big win over Romania and drew with Turkey. Before that they topped Group 3 in the Qualifying Round with two wins and a draw.

Belgium
Yet to reach a final in this tournament, Belgium were in the semi-finals as recent as last year. They conquered their Qualifying Round with three wins before repeating that feat in the Elite Round.

Czech Republic
Runners-up to Netherlands in the Elite Round after beating Israel and Northern Ireland, the Czechs started the campaign with three wins in the Qualifying Round, scoring nine goals and not letting any in.

England
This will be their 14th appearance at these Finals Tournament. They had a bye to skip the Qualifying Round before showing their class in the Elite Round with wins over Switzerland and Denmark, as well as a draw with Croatia.

France
Three games, nine goals, and maximum points from the Qualifying Round sent Les Bleus into the Elite Round hunting for top spot and they secured it with wins over Serbia, Slovakia, and Sweden.

Germany
After being affored a bye for the first set of games, Germany put their focus on the Elite Round, where finished as runners-up in Group 4 behind Iceland with one win and two draws.

Greece
The tag of runners-up will not bother Greece one bit as they claimed second spot in both the Qualifying Round and Elite Round. This will be their third appearance in this finals tournament.

Hungary
With two wins and a draw, Hungary finished top of Group 9 in the Qualifying Round, which they hosted. It was then onto the Qualifying Round where they finished behind Belgium on six points.

Iceland
A 2-2 draw with Ukraine wasn't the start that Iceland had hoped for, but things only got better as they made it out of the Qualifying Round and then finished on top of Group 4 in the Elite Round, where they fought back three times to draw with Germany.

Italy
Topped Group 13 in the Qualifying Round with wins over Andorra, Armenia, and Croatia. Then finished top of Group 1 in the Elite Round after they beat Turkey, Romania, and Austria. Across six games, they scored 22 goals and conceded just once.

Netherlands
The reigning champions netted 22 goals in the Qualifying Round as they overcame Liechtenstein, Montenegro, and Sweden, while their Elite Round saw them beat Northern Ireland, Israel, and Czech Republic.

Portugal
Champions in 2003 and 2016, Portugal hit 18 goals in the Qualifying Round as they got past Kazakhstan, Belarus and Wales. In the Elite Round, they beat Scotland, Poland, and Russia to top Group 6.

Republic of Ireland
Qualified automatically as host nation. This will be their third straight finals appearance under Head Coach Colin O'Brien.

Russia
Having twice won this tournament, Russia know what to expect and they made it through the Qualifying Round by finishing behind Denmark. They came second in their Elite Round too atter beating Poland and Scotland.

Spain
Group 5 winners in the Elite Round, where they secured nine points by only scoring four goals, Spain also claimed first place in their Qualifying Round by beating Israel, Macedonia, and Faroe Islands.

Sweden
The last team to clinch their place at the 2019 Finals Tournament, Sweden were runners-up to France in Group 8 in the Elite Round having initially earned two wins in the Qualifying Round as they started well.

Sixth class pupils from Scoil San Carlo Senior National School in Leixlip spent time with the players - including Niamh Farrelly and Tyler Toland pictured above - as part of a visit in association with creative writing organisation, Fighting Words.

Founded by famed Dublin writer Roddy Doyle in 2009, Fighting Words aims to help children and young people to discover and harness the power of their own imaginations and creative writing skills.

The children conducted interviews with the Ireland players and watched a training session led by Head Coach Colin Bell at Johnstown House.

And following the meet-and-greet with the squad, the students started work on writing and putting together their very own sports magazine.

The WNT squad are in camp ahead of their International Friendly game against Italy in Reggio Emilia next Tuesday, April 9.

That game is part of the squad's preparations for the UEFA Women's European Championship qualifiers which kick-off in September. 

Along with getting photos and autographs of the players, the students got to quiz the squad on all aspects of life as professional footballers - from training and diet, to how they feel about pulling on the green jersey and representing their country.

With help from their teachers and Fighting Words, the pupils will now put together the sports magazine based on everything that they experienced with the players.

The Ireland starting XI included 10 SSE Airtricity League players with players from Shamrock Rovers, Bohemians, Sligo Rovers, St. Patrick's Athletic, Bray Wanderers and Wexford FC all featuring. Shamrock Rovers striker Michael Leddy scored the winner in Tuesday's 1-0 victory over Czech Republic, and he was one of six changes made by Head Coach Jason Donohue who looked to utilise his full squad.   

Czech Republic were clinical in the opening half and scored three goals in a thirteen-minute period to put Ireland on the back foot. Ireland failed to deal with a shot on the 11th-minute with Lukas Masek able to tap in from close range to put the hosts 1-0 up. Ireland composed themselves and had the better of the play, however, two more first-half goals from Joseph Starek and Matyas Korselt gave the hosts a 3-0 advantage at the interval. 

Ireland Head Coach Jason Donohue made three half time changes with Bohemians trio Cian Kelly, Jamie Mullins and Evan Ferguson replacing Sean Fitzpatrick, Sean Grehan and Zayd Abada. However it was the hosts who started the second half brighter and hit Ireland on the break with Josef Starek scoring his second to make it 4-0 to Czech Republic.

Ireland continued to build from the back and Bohemians Jamie Mullins had his goal chalked off for offside in the 53rd-minute. With twenty minutes remaining Michael Leddy’s shot from outside the area rattled the Czech Republic crossbar with Evan Ferguson's subsequent header also coming back off the upright.    

Shamrock Rovers Michael Leddy pulled a goal back in the 69th-minute latching onto a through ball from substitute Evan Ferguson. The striker calmly rounded the keeper and slotted into the empty net for his second goal in two games. Czech Republic added a fifth in the final minute of the game as Ireland pilled on the pressure with the game ending 5-1. 

Republic of Ireland Under-15 Head Coach Jason Donohue said: "We came up against a really strong Czech Republic side today. They were the better team on the day. It shows how impressive our performance and result was on Tuesday. They scored three goals in 13-minutes which put us on the back-foot early on. Czech Republic were clinical and we hit the crossbar twice in the second half and on a different day, those chances might have gone in.”

"We made six changes with two players missing through injuries which allowed others an opportunity to step in and all players in the squad started one of the two games this week.”

“Overall it has been a great season having played some top nations including Spain, Netherlands and Poland. A big thank you to the backroom staff from who have done great work all season. We had ten of the starting XI from National League Clubs and I want to thank all the clubs and coaches from the League and Schoolboy clubs for working together to assist the players in their continued development.” 

Czech Republic: Radek Charvat (GK), Daniel Samek, Ondrej Kukucka, Matyas Korselt, Mikes Cahel, Lukas Ambros, Josef Starek, Lukas Masek, Lukas Levcik, Daniel Michl, David Tomeska. 

Republic of Ireland: Jack Ross (GK) (Adam Maguire 55), John Ryan, Darragh Reilly, Sean Grehan (Jamie Mullins 41), Ben Quinn (Tommy Fogarty 55), Glory Nzingo, Michael Leddy, Zayd Abada (Evan Ferguson 41), Conor Barrett, Sean Fitzpatrick (Cian Kelly 41), Aaron O'Reilly.

International Friendly - Results
April 2: Czech Republic 0-1 Republic of Ireland, Stadium Prestice, KO 16:00 (15:00 Irish Time)
April 4: Czech Republic 5-1 Republic of Ireland, Stadium Dobrany, KO 11:00 (10:00 Irish Time)