The First Leg of the Play-Off will take place on Friday, November 13 in Bosnia-Herzegovina in a venue yet to be officially confirmed. The Football Association of Bosnia and Herzegovina have until October 25 to confirm the match venue.

In advance of any such official stadium announcement, the FAI has requested a 10 per cent overall ticket allocation for the First Leg match. Under UEFA regulations away teams are guaranteed five per cent of the overall ticket allocation, but may apply for an additional five per cent. This application is subject to the discretion of the home association.

As soon as the FAI's ticket allocation for the game is confirmed, the Away Ticketing Scheme, which was piloted for the away fixtures against Gibraltar and Poland, will be activated. Under the scheme, tickets will be distributed as follows:

• 55 per cent will be distributed to supporters from affiliated football Leagues and more than 2,000 clubs that fall under their remit, Board and National Council members, players/staff, Club Ireland members, and Jack Charlton Lounge patrons.
• 30 per cent will be allocated to independent supporters who are members of Republic of Ireland Soccer Supporter Clubs or Fans' Direct.
• 15 per cent will be provided to supporters travelling with the FAI's official travel partner, Abbey Travel. These supporters have their details of match attendance at away games logged should they ever decide to apply independently for tickets.

Allocations to independent supporters registered with Fans' Direct are made on a points based system. This system collates data from Autumn 2012 (the start of 2014 World Cup qualification) and supporters have been awarded points on an individual basis as follows:

• 70 points for a Season Ticket purchased for each season from the 2012/13 season
• 20 points for each away match attended since September 2012
• 10 points for each single home match attended since the 2012/13 season (if not a Season Ticket holder)

Allocations to Republic of Ireland Soccer Supporter Clubs will be based on the numbers of season tickets held by each club and divided accordingly among Republic of Ireland Soccer Supporter Clubs.

Within the 30 per cent of away tickets allocated to Republic of Ireland Soccer Supporter Clubs and Fans' Direct, away tickets will split on a pro-rata basis based on season tickets held by Supporters' Clubs and the number of members registered with Fans' Direct. 

Should any tickets remain after they have been offered to Republic of Ireland Soccer Supporter Clubs or Fans' Direct, they will be offered between these groupings, who will have first option on any remaining tickets.

The FAI received 9,800 tickets for the game against Gibraltar in Faro, Portugal and 3,800 tickets for the game against Poland in Warsaw. In both matches the full allocation was not taken up.

Frank Kelleher's side won all three of their games at the tournament with Ringmahon Rangers striker Jordan O'Regan securing the player of the tournament with seven goals in three games.

O'Regan scored four in the final day win over Leinster, including a first half hat-trick. Ciaran Kearney and Dean Swords also found the net in that win.

Leinster finished runners-up after beating hosts and holders Connacht 3-1 on the opening day and drawing 1-1 with Ulster on Day Two.

Connacht claimed third spot after beating Ulster on the final day.

Full results and scorers in the attached document.

The squad includes the 17 players on duty for the opening defeat last month to Finland plus Reading goalkeeper Grace Moloney who was also part of the extended squad for that game. Shelbourne winger Siobhan Killeen and UCD midfielder Ciara Grant are unavailable for the game due to college commitments so they’ve been replaced by Wexford Youths duo Carol Breen and Claire O’Riordan.

UCD Waves midfielder Dora Gorman, who had to pull out of the original Finland squad, is set to miss the rest of the 2015-16 season with an ACL injury.

The squad will fly to Portugal on Friday and commence preparations at their base in Guimaraes which is close to the match venue in Moreira de Cónegos. The game will kick off at 3pm Irish time.

Announcing the squad, Sue Ronan said: “While it was very disappointing to lose our opening game to Finland last month I thought we played well and things could have been a lot different if we had taken our chances. We travel to Portugal knowing we need to get points on the board but it is not going to be easy as they are the best of the fourth seeds and have been improving in recent years.”

Ronan added that she hopes the success enjoyed at club level in recent weeks by some of her players will have a positive effect on her squad.

“Some of the girls will be really buzzing when they come in. Niamh Fahey has just won the English League and Cup double in her first season at Chelsea while Denise O’Sullivan and Clare Shine have won the Scottish League title with Glasgow City and Louise Quinn has qualified for the Champions League after Eskilstuna finished runners-up in the Swedish League. They’ve all had excellent seasons and I hope that will rub off on everybody else.”

Meanwhile, it has been confirmed that Ireland’s next EURO 2017 qualifier, at home to Spain on November 26, will kick-off at 2pm in Tallaght Stadium and will be shown live on Setanta Ireland.
 

Republic of Ireland Squad (v Portugal)

Goalkeepers: Emma Byrne (Arsenal), Grace Moloney (Reading), Niamh Reid Burke (Shelbourne).

Defenders: Megan Campbell (Florida State University); Meabh De Burca (Galway), Karen Duggan (UCD Waves), Niamh Fahey (Chelsea), Louise Quinn (Eskilstuna); Sophie Perry (Brighton & Hove Albion).

Midfielders: Diane Caldwell (Avaldsness), Ruesha Littlejohn (Celtic), Grace Murray (Newry City), Denise O’Sullivan (Glasgow City), Julie-Ann Russell (UCD Waves).

Forwards: Carol Breen (Wexford Youths), Katie McCabe (Shelbourne), Aine O’Gorman (UCD Waves), Claire O’Riordan (Wexford Youths), Stephanie Roche (Sunderland), Clare Shine (Glasgow City).

Over 420 clubs were involved in the fundraising competition with more than 112K tickets sold, 1,486 prizes distributed to clubs for local draws, and increased interaction around the country. Here are some of the figures:

• Record-breaking year with over 112K tickets sold
• Record number of clubs involved: 427 across the country
• Average tickets per clubs: 262 - once all sold it will give clubs an average profit of €2,200
• Two clubs ordered more than 2,000 tickets and once sold they will make profit of €17,000
• 1,486 prizes already distributed to clubs for their local club's draws

There are still more opportunities to avail of the 2015 Irish Football National Draw as clubs have until October 29 to get their ticket stubs to the FAI for entry into the main regional and national draws.

The regional and national draws - which have 76 great prizes on offer including four brand new Ford Fiesta cars - will take place at the Irish Daily Mail FAI Senior Cup Final at Aviva Stadium on Sunday, November 8.

Dave Bell's team required a point from their final Qualifying Round game in Izmir but took all three courtesy of goals from Leanne Kiernan, Alex Kavanagh, and Lauren Kelly.

Ireland had previously beaten Ukraine and Andorra to move in pole position in a tricky group but they showed their quality to overcome their hosts and take a step closer to next summer's finals in Belarus.

"The girls have really come on as a group and they worked so hard to top the group. I'm really proud of them and it's a great achievement," said Bell.

"This is the first stepping stone towards the finals. The next thing is the draw for the Elite Round and once we know our opponents we can start preparing for those games.

"But the girls have been brilliant. I had a really difficult task in picking a team for each game and any of the girls could have made the starting XI. All 18 girls got to play and that shows the strength of this squad.

"We scored some great goals but we also didn't concede any. When we came here to Turkey the girls spoke about topping the group, getting the nine points, and not conceding any goals, so it's a credit to them that they achieved that."

Early goals proved to be a theme in Ireland's three games and that was certainly the case against Turkey as Kiernan opened the scoring after just six minutes - pouncing on a loose ball in the penalty area.

Kavanagh doubled their lead with a superb curling effort into the back of the net on 35 minutes before Kelly finished things off with a neat finish in the second period after breaking free of her marker.

Bell was full of praise for his players after the victory, not just for their performance in the final qualifier but in their attitude around the team hotel, their professional approach to training, and their desire to win as a team.

"I'm delighted for them and couldn't have asked for more," said Bell after the game.

"We had a gameplan against Turkey and the girls put it into action. But we can't think that we've made it to the finals yet. The hard work starts again after the draw but they have given themselves every chance of getting to the finals now."

The draw for the Elite Round will take place on December 10 with the games being hosted early next year. 

Turkey: Bedriye Cam; Derya Arhan, Sagre Ozturk, Sabiha Uyaner, Rabia Civan; Esra Manya (Ceren Akkaya 23), Ece Turkoglu, Bilge Su Koyun (Vehpiye Azak 67), Eda Goren (Sedanur Incik 76), Nursen Yaprak; Birgul Sadikoglu.

Republic of Ireland: McAloon; Reddy, O'Gorman, Doyle, Green; Ruddy (Craven 41), Farrelly (Reybet-Degat 48), Kavanagh; O'Callaghan (Payne 63), Kelly, Kiernan.

Referee: Valentina Garoffolo (Italy).

FIXTURES   

Republic of Ireland 3-0 Ukraine, Thursday, October 15, Izmir
Republic of Ireland 7-0 Andorra, Saturday, October 17, Izmir
Turkey 0-3 Republic of Ireland, Tuesday, October 20, Izmir

Victories against Ukraine, Andorra, and Turkey saw Dave Bell's team top Group 1 in their UEFA European Championships Qualifying Round and secure passage through to the Elite Round.

The long-term target is reaching next summer's finals tournament in Belarus and Kavanagh - who scored twice in their three games in Izmir - believes that they can go all of the way.

"We showed great character in our three games and I think that was important. We had a tough group but we went into it wanting to finish on top and we did that," says Kavanagh.

"We have a great team and a great squad. We are a good footballing team and we improved with each game. As we get to train more together we will get even better and get closer to the finals.

"We know that won't be easy and that we will have to work hard to get through the Elite Round, but we have a great team bond and we are getting better all of the time as a team."

Kavanagh was one of eight different goalscorers in Turkey as Bell used his full panel of 18 players, while other impressive statistics include 13 goals scored, none conceded, and 60 shots unloaded at goal.

Still, Bell acknowledges that there is room for improvement and Kavanagh, who plays with Shelbourne Ladies FC, states that the chemistry in the squad proved to be a key factor in their success.

"We qualified for the Elite Round by playing football; it wasn't like we were lucky, we worked hard in every game and we're happy that we played as a team," she says.

"I think it's important to have that bond in the squad because other teams didn't have it and it showed on the pitch. We worked hard in training and listened to everything Dave (Bell) told us.

"It's unbelievable to win our three games and top the group but we want to keep going now and get ready for the Elite Round."

The draw for the Elite Round will take place on December 10 with the games being hosted early next year. 

Click on the matches below to watch highlights from the games

Republic of Ireland WU17 3-0 Ukraine WU17
Republic of Ireland WU17 7-0 Andorra WU17
Republic of Ireland WU17 3-0 Turkey WU17

A second half hat-trick from UCD's Robert Manley settled the tie 3-1 in the home side's favour after the Belfast-based academy took an early lead in the game.

It was a very well contested game and  was the first time the George Best Foundation Academy has visited Dublin and it is hoped that the relationship between the FAI ETB courses and the Belfast Academies will prosper and cross border games will continue.

The George Best Foundation Academy was launched in 2011 and is based in the University of Ulster at Jordanstown. It is a two-year course with full-time football training for young players 16-18 year olds. It also includes academic studies which covers a range of theoretical and practical units very similar to the ETB/FAI courses targeting the gym and leisure industry.

Switzerland, who are currently 12th in the FIFA World Rankings, will arrive in Dublin as Ireland's first opponents of 2016 and provide a difficult test for Martin O'Neill's team.

Coached by Vladimir Petkovic, Switzerland reached the last-16 at the 2014 FIFA World Cup and qualified for next summer's UEFA European Championships after finishing as runners-up in Group E.

The game will mark the first meeting between the teams since 2005 and the 16th overall since their first match up in 1935 with Ireland holding a slight advantage with seven wins.

This is the first time that the ground has received this accolade in its revamped format, although Groundsman Noel Connolly did receive the accolade of Groundsman of the Year in 2007 and 2008..

The winner of the award was announced following nominations by SSE Airtricity League referees and players, in association with the Professional Footballers Association of Ireland.

The award, which is organised by the FAI and IISS, and sponsored by Greenday Environmental Services, will be presented at a function prior to the FAI Irish Daily Mail Cup Final at Aviva Stadium on November 8th.

IISS Managing Director Donal Kearney said: “The Pitch of the Year Award has been created to highlight the hard work of the League clubs and their grounds staff. We hope that this award provides due recognition which will encourage them and others in the league to continue to work towards improving the standards of their playing surfaces which plays a key role into the playing performance of the pitch, the players and to reducing player injuries.  Congratulations to Eamon Deacy Park on their achievement and our thanks to Greenday environmental for their support.”

Eamonn McShea CEO of Greenday Environmental, who offer a comprehensive range of drainage services for domestic and commercial sectors throughout all Ireland, added: “Greenday Environmental are delighted to support this award in recognition of the hard work which Clubs and their Groundsmen in the SSE Airtricity League put in all year round."

Fran Gavin, Director of the SSE Airtricity League, said: “I would like to congratulate the Galway FA, Head Groundsman Noel Connolly and Galway United FC on winning this award. It is appropriate that Eamon Deacy Park has won this award, and there is no doubt that it would not have been achieved without the tireless work of the staff at the ground who have maintained the pitch to the highest of standards throughout the entire year.  I would also like to thank the players (through the PFAI) and the referees for their assistance in this award. “

Joe Keating, Chairman of the Galway FA, said: "The Galway FA is delighted to have won the SSE Airtricity League "Pitch of the Year" award this year. This award is a reflection of our determination to place the condition of the playing surface at the top of its list of priorities at Eamon Deacy Park, but most of all it is a credit to the staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to keep the surface in top condition, and I would like to congratulate them.”

Galway United FC Chairman,  Jonathan Corbett remarked:  “We are delighted that Eamon Deacy Park has received this prestigious award. We would like to congratulate our landlords and colleagues in the Galway FA, whose ground staff do excellent work in maintaining the pitch to such a high standard.”

The competition began in 2007 following the takeover of the National League by the Football Association of Ireland. Initially it was known as the Groundsman of the Year Award but was renamed Pitch of the Year in 2009.

The previous winners are:

Groundsman of the Year

2007 – Noel Connolly, Terryland Park

2008 – Noel Connolly, Terryland Park

Pitch of the Year

2009 – The UCD Bowl

2010 – Tallaght Stadium

2011 – Turner's Cross

2012 – Tallaght Stadium

2013 – Waterford RSC

2014 – Turner’s Cross

Osam's squad will face Northern Ireland, Wales and Scotland in a four team tournament which unlike previous years will be played in a five-day spell rather than on a month by month basis.

A number of players have been called into an Ireland squad for the first time including Malaga CF midfielder Marcus Rowley and Vfl Wolfsburg's Niklas Baylor, both of whom have Irish fathers.

"I'm looking to learn about the players that we?ve selected this time around but all of the players who are eligible that it's a long process not just a squad for this tournament but it's about working with the players so that we have a squad to hand over to Tom Mohan for the UEFA U17 qualifiers next season," said Osam.

"We've players from outside the jurisdiction, Marcus from Malaga and Niklas from Wolfsburg. It will be interesting to see how they fare but they're there on merit. They did well in the assessment process and I'm interested to see how they look in the games.

"The two lads are both midfielders that can play both attacking and defensively. They have good game awareness and game understanding from what we've seen. They've shown up well to myself and the staff which suggested they have the qualities to play at this level. Having said that we'll also have to see if they have other elements required at the next level. They didn't grow up in our football culture and we will have to see if they have the competitive spirit that you associate with Irish players which is important too."

Osam will be taking charge of the Irish squad for the first time in the tournament and while he would welcome a winning start to his reign he insists the focus is on developing players rather than lifting trophies at this age level.

"The players who are candidates for this level should all know that they are all in with a shout of being involved over the course of the season - it's an ongoing situation," said Osam.

"This is the squad for this event based on a number of factors but primarily how they have performed since I took over and have seen them.

"It's important that the boys understand the system and the philosophy set down by the Association. We have given them a framework to play within but we can't be too restrictive and we want them to express themselves when the time is right.

"We'll look to bed that in over the three games. It's not about winning the Victory Shield although it's always nice to win. The goal for these players is to play in the UEFA Championships Qualifiers with Tom Mohan next season and this is part of that process."

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND U16 SQUAD:

Aaron Bolger (St Joseph's Boys)

Aaron Connolly (Mervue Utd)

Aaron McColgan (Derry City)

Alex Kelly (Belvedere)

Brian Maher (St Kevin's Boys)

Cian Hughes (St Francis)

Cian Lee (Belvedere)

Darryl Walsh (Waterford United)

Dominic Peppard (St Joseph's Boys)

James Jennings (St Francis)

Jonathan Afalabi (St Joseph's Boys)

Jordan Doherty (Sheffield Utd)

Kevin Healy (Belvedere)

Lee O'Connor (Villa FC)

Lorcan Callaghan (Sligo Rovers)

Luke Nolan (St Patrick's Athletic)

Luke O'Brien (Crumlin Utd)

Marcus Rowley (Malaga CF)

Niklas Baylor (Vfl Wolfsburg)

Thomas Caffrey (St Francis)

FIXTURES

Sunday, November 1

Northern Ireland v Republic of Ireland, Newport Stadium (2.00pm)

Tuesday, November 3

Wales v Republic of Ireland, Dragon Park, Newport (4.00pm)

Thursday, November 5

Scotland v Republic of Ireland, Newport Stadium (2.00pm)

Sue Ronan’s side play Portugal on Tuesday in Moreira De Cónegos and, after losing their opening group game last month at home to Finland, the squad are keen to open their account. According to Campbell they are in a determined mood.

“We will be going all guns blazing to try and knock the Portuguese off their game,” promises the 22-year-old defender from Drogheda.

“I think getting three points on the board, or at least a point on the board, is what we have come here to achieve in Portugal this Tuesday. We need points and we can’t come out of here with less than that. We need points on the board and go from there. We need to start involving ourselves in the group and letting people know that we are here and that we are here to challenge for a position to qualify.”

In front of a large and passionate crowd at Tallaght last month, the Irish girls did everything but score and Campbell admits that there has been a lot of soul searching over the past few weeks as the team tried to work out what happened.

“Obviously coming in we wanted to get off to a good start and get three points on the board playing at home in the first European qualifier in a group that we feel is really good for us and we’ll benefit from it.

“It was hard to take but I know there is a long way to go in this campaign. We have kind of moved past it right now. Obviously you look back on it, the chances we created and should have scored from and obviously the goals they scored we could have prevented There is a lot of positives to take from the game obviously but the negative is that we did lose the game. But there is a long way to go in the campaign. We are just getting started and we will be able to pick up on it on Tuesday.”

Campbell first announced herself on the international stage back in 2010 when her thundering free-kick in a European Women’s U17 semi-final handed Ireland a shock 1-0 win over Germany and she has since established herself as a key member of the senior squad since making her debut against Switzerland in August 2011.  She feels the squad has developed to a point where qualification for a major tournament like EURO 2017 is a realistic goal.

“Over the last number of years we have grown as a team, we have matured. Obviously we would like to qualify automatically but to have second place up for grabs is a big incentive for us to qualify.”

Campbell is currently in her final weeks at Florida State University whom she helped to the American title last year and she is looking to repeat that feat before deciding what her footballing future will be.

“Right now my head is still towards the season and wanting to repeat the National Championship. Obviously when the season is done I will have a lot of thinking to do. My options are open to going anywhere at the moment but I will look into it when December 11 comes and I graduate. Until then my focus is on the National Championship and winning that again.

Campbell was joined at Florida State this year by Ireland under-age international Megan Connolly and she revealed that the Cork girl has already made a huge impression stateside.

“She came over and I thought it would take her a while to settle in but, as you can see from the stats, she has adapted quite well. Five goals and ten assists in 14 games isn’t a bad way to start your career at a college, especially Florida State. She is doing really well, she is enjoying it and has settled in. She is a quality player with great talent and she has fitted into our team really well.”

The 20 strong Irish squad arrived in Portugal yesterday to begin preparations for Tuesday’s game and had their first training session this morning with another planned for this evening.
 

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24

SSE Airtricity League Premier Division

Bray Wanderers v Galway United, Carlisle Grounds, 17:45.

SSE Airtricity U19 League Section 1

Wexford Youths v Limerick, Ferrycarrig Park, 14:00.

SSE Airtricity U19 League Section 2

Bohemians v Shamrock Rovers, Blanchardstown IT, 12:00

Athlone Town v Shelbourne, Athlone Town Stadium, 14:00.

Galway United v St Patrick’s Athletic, Drom, 16:00..

SSE Airtricity U19 League Section 3

Finn Harps v Drogheda United, Finn Park, 14:00.

SSE Airtricity U17 League Section 1

Waterford United v Cobh Ramblers, RSC, 14:00.

SSE Airtricity U17 League Section 2

Mervue United   v Athlone Town, Fahy's Field, 13:00.

Shamrock Rovers v Salthill Devon, Tallaght Stadium, 14:00.

SSE Airtricity U17 League Section 3

Drogheda United v Dundalk, United Park, 12:00.

Monaghan Cavan FP v Derry City, Gortakeegan, 14:00.

Shelbourne v Finn Harps, Tolka Park, 14:00.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 25

SSE Airtricity U19 League Section 1

Bray Wanderers v Cork City, Carlisle Grounds, 14:00.

Cobh Ramblers v Waterford United, St Colman’s Park, 14:00.

SSE Airtricity U19 League Section 3         

Sligo Rovers v Derry City, The Showgrounds, 14:00.

SSE Airtricity U17 League Section 1

Limerick v Wexford Youths, Hogan Park, 14:00.

Bray Wanderers v Cork City, Jackson Park, 14:30.

SSE Airtricity U17 League Section 2

St Patrick’s Athletic v Longford Town, ALSAA, 14:00.

MONDAY, OCTOBER 26

SSE Airtricity U19 League Section 2

Longford Town  v St Patrick’s Athletic, City Calling Stadium, 19:00.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 27

UEFA European Women’s Championship Qualifying Round Group 2

Portugal v Republic of Ireland, Stadion Comendador Joaquim Almeida Fre, Moreira de Conegos (POR), 15:00 (Irish Time)

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 28

SSE Airtricity U19 League Section 3

Dundalk v Letterkenny Rovers, Oriel Park, 19:45.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30

SSE Airtricity League Premier Division

Bohemians v Cork City, Dalymount Park, 19:45.

Dundalk v Bray Wanderers, Oriel Park, 19:45.

Galway United v St. Patrick’s Athletic, Eamonn Deacy Park, 19:45.

Longford Town v Derry City, City Calling Stadium, 19:45.

Shamrock Rovers v Drogheda United, Tallaght Stadium, 19:45.

Sligo Rovers v Limerick, The Showgrounds, 19:45.

SSE Airtricity League First Division Promotion/Relegation Play-Off Second Leg

Finn Harps v UCD, Finn Park, 19:45.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 31

Continental Tyres Women’s National League

Shelbourne v Kilkenny United, Morton Stadium, 19:00.

Galway v Castlebar Celtic, Eamonn Deacy Park, 19:30.

Wexford Youths v Peamount United, Ferrycarrig Park, 19:30.

SSE Airtricity U19 League Section 1

Cork City v Limerick, Bishopstown Stadium, 14:00.

Wexford Youths v Cobh Ramblers, Ferrycarrig Park, 14:00.

UCD v Bray  Wanderers, AUL Complex, 14:00.

SSE Airtricity U19 League Section 2

Shamrock Rovers v St Patrick’s Athletic, Tallaght   Stadium, 12:00.

Bohemians v Athlone Town, Dalymount Park, 14:00.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1

Continental Tyres Women’s National League

Cork City v UCD Waves, Bishopstown Stadium, 14:00.

SSE Airtricity U19 League Section 2

Galway United v Longford Town, Fahey’s Field, Mervue, 14:00.

SSE Airtricity U19 League Section 3

Drogheda United v Letterkenny Rovers, United Park, 14:00

Finn Harps v Derry City,   Finn Park, 14:00.

Sligo Rovers v Dundalk, The Showgrounds, 14:00.

International U16 Victory Shield Tournament

Northern Ireland v Republic of Ireland, Newport Stadium, 14:00.

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 2

SSE Airtricity League Promotion/Relegation Play-Off Final First Leg

11th placed Premier Division team v Finn Harps or UCD, TBC, 19:45 (Draw will take place on Tuesday).

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3

International U16 Victory Shield Tournament

Wales v Republic of Ireland, Dragon Park, Newport, 16:00.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5

International U16 Victory Shield Tournament

Scotland v Republic of Ireland, Newport Stadium, 12:00.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6

SSE Airtricity League Promotion/Relegation Play-Off Final First Leg

11th placed Premier Division team v Finn Harps or UCD, TBC, 19:45 (Draw will take place on Tuesday).

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 8

Irish Daily Mail FAI Senior Cup Final

Cork City v Dundalk, Aviva Stadium, 15:30 (Live on RTÉ2)

Continental Tyres FAI Women’s Senior Cup Final

Shelbourne v Wexford Youths, Aviva Stadium, 12:20 (Live on RTE 2)

Quinn linked up with the national squad this week in preparation for Tuesday’s Euro 2017 qualifier against Portugal after helping Eskilstuna to runners-up spot in Sweden and a place in next season’s UEFA Champions League.

She is one of several players within the squad who have arrived in Portugal on the back of successful seasons with their clubs which she feels has given the whole squad a massive confidence boost.

“It is nice to have teammates who are doing well and have had good club seasons. It just breeds confidence and it rubs off on the other players. You are buzzing about on the pitch and that transfers itself to the other players on training pitch and then you are bringing that's onto the pitch on match day,” said Quinn.

The rise of Eskilstuna has been a massive story in Swedish football and Quinn has been a key part of it over the last three seasons since joining them after helping Peamount United win the inaugural Women’s National League.

“In 2013 we were in the second tier of the Swedish Women’s League and we went on to win that league and win promotion to the Damallsvenskan which is the top division and easily one of the top three or four leagues in the world,” said Quinn

“We finished a nice seventh place out of 12 teams in 2014 and now this year we have come second and went extremely close to winning it as we were one point off. It is disappointing to have been so close but if you look at the progression we have made as a team it has been an amazing journey.

“I don't think the club ever thought things were going to push on so quickly. They have set up a great structure for us and we have the right players and we have a really good team. It is tough we didn't come first but we have to be happy with the progression we have made getting second place and Champions League football.”

The 25 year old is set to win her 40th cap on Tuesday against Portugal and feels she has improved a lot since she made her debut in August 2011 against Switzerland.

“I think I am a smarter player and fitter. I have learned how to play my position and be a leader on the pitch and help others out. My fitness and conditioning have improved a lot from training six or seven times a week and then playing a game. That has helped me massively.”

Ireland’s defeat last month to Finland wasn’t the type of start the squad envisaged as they set out on what they hope will be the road to the Netherlands in 2017 but Quinn is pragmatic and points out there is still a long way to go in the campaign.

“I don’t think it has dented confidence, it was just disappointing at the time. Looking back on the game you could see that we actually did dominate the game and had the better chances but you have to put the ball in the back of the net. It was disappointing but you can’t win the group after the first game so we have just got to put it behind us, there is no point dwelling on it. 

"We have just got to go into the Portugal game as strong as we can and if we play like we played against Finland we can do well but we have got to finish the chances and not concede any silly goals.”

Top Performer
Carl McHugh (Plymouth Argyle)
Top of League Two, Plymouth are flying high and Donegal native McHugh is a key reason why. While he has played most of his football in defence, the one-time Dundalk loanee is now catching the eye as a holding midfielder and he has embraced every aspect of the new role – even getting on the scoresheet in the win over Luton Town.

Watch Out For
Liam Kinsella (Walsall)
Son of former Republic of Ireland international Mark, the latest midfield sensation with Kinsella printed on the back of his jersey is just as exciting. He shares his father’s coolness under pressure and he also understands how to cover for team-mates in defensive situations. An un-used substitute for Walsall this weekend, he recently signed a two-year deal with them so a bright future lies in wait.

Irish Manager Monitor
In the Championship, Lee Carsley’s Brentford recorded a 3-0 victory away to Charlton Athletic to extend their winning streak to three games. Chris Hughton’s Brighton & Hove Albion drew 0-0 with Preston North End, while Mick McCarthy’s Ipswich Town claimed a point in a 1-1 draw away to Nottingham Forest.

In League Two, John Sheridan’s positive impact at Newport County continued as his team secured a 4-1 triumph over Bristol Rovers, which followed on from their midweek win over Wycombe Wanderers.

Further Afield
In the Dutch Eredivisie, Jack Byrne started for Cambuur in their 1-1 draw with Ado Den Haag. In Finland, Shane McFaul played for KTP in their 2-1 loss to Ilves. Over in the Indian Super League, Darren O’Dea played the full 90 minutes for Mumbai City as they claimed a 2-0 win over GOA.

In the Scottish Championship, Jon Daly was on target for Raith Rovers but they lost 2-1 at home to Hibernian, while Rob Kiernan helped Rangers to a 1-0 win over St Mirren, who had Jim Goodwin in their side.

Women’s Focus
All of the main Irish girls based abroad are currently in camp with the Republic of Ireland Women’s senior team, who face Portugal in their second UEFA Euro 2017 qualifier on Tuesday, October 27.

Weekend Stats

Premier League
11 appearances– Eunan O’Kane (Bournemouth), Seamus Coleman, James McCarthy (Everton), Rob Elliot (Newcastle United), Robbie Brady, Wes Hoolahan (Norwich City), Jonathan Walters, Glenn Whelan, Marc Wilson (Stoke City), John O’Shea (Sunderland), James McClean (West Brom)
4 un-used substitutes– Damien Delaney (Crystal Palace), Shay Given, Stephen Ireland (Stoke City), Darren Randolph (West Ham United)
2 yellow cards– Glenn Whelan (Stoke City), James McClean (West Brom)

Championship
20 appearances– Stephen Gleeson (Birmingham City), Shane Duffy (Blackburn Rovers), Alan Judge, Alan McCormack (Brentford), Stephen Henderson (Charlton Athletic), Cyrus Christie, Richard Keogh (Derby County), Sean Scannell (Huddersfield Town), David Meyler (Hull City), Jonathan Douglas, David McGoldrick, Daryl Murphy (Ipswich Town), Samir Carruthers (MK Dons), Alan Browne, Greg Cunningham, Eoin Doyle (Preston North End), Paul McShane (Reading), Paul Green (Rotherham United), Keiren Westwood (Sheffield Wednesday), Matt Doherty (Wolves)
2 goalscorers– Alan Judge (Brentford), David Meyler (Hull City)
7 un-used substitutes– John O’Sullivan (Blackburn Rovers), Jack Bonham (Brentford), Stephen Ward (Burnley), Alex Pearce (Derby County), Joe Murphy (Huddersfield Town), Darren Potter (MK Dons), Aidan White (Rotherham United)
1 yellow card– Stephen Gleeson (Birmingham City)

League One
25 appearances– Colin Doyle (Blackpool), Aaron McCarey (Bury), Jay O’Shea (Chesterfield), Owen Garvan (Colchester United), Jimmy Ryan (Fleetwood Town), John Egan, Bradley Garmston, Emmanuel Osadebe (Gillingham), Aiden O’Brien (Millwall), Mark Yeates (Oldham Athletic), Chris Forrester (Peterborough United), Sam Foley (Port Vale), Donal McDermott (Rochdale), Paddy Madden (Scunthorpe United), Conor Sammon (Sheffield United), James Collins, Liam Lawrence (Shrewsbury Town), Cian Bolger, Gary Deegan, Stephen McLaughlin, Dave Mooney, Glen Rea (Southend United), Anton Rodgers (Swindon Town), Anthony Forde (Walsall), Chris McCann (Wigan Athletic)
4 goalscorers– Owen Garvan (Colchester United), Aiden O’Brien [2] (Millwall), Paddy Madden [2] (Scunthorpe United), Stephen McLaughlin (Southend United)
8 un-used substitutes– Conor Wilkinson (Barnsley), Charles Dunne (Blackpool), Anthony O’Connor (Burton Albion), Paul Keegan (Doncaster Rovers), David Forde (Millwall), Sam Kelly (Port Vale), Liam McAlinden (Shrewsbury Town), Liam Kinsella (Walsall)
3 yellow cards– Jimmy Ryan (Fleetwood Town), Cian Bolger, Stephen McLaughlin (Southend United)
1 clean sheet– Colin Doyle (Blackpool)

League Two
26 appearances– Seamus Conneely (Accrington Stanley), Barry Corr, Rory Gaffney (Cambridge United), Gary Dicker (Carlisle United), Shamir Fenelon, Rhys Murphy (Crawley Town), Kane Ferdinand, Frankie Sutherland (Dag & Red), Clinton Morrison (Exeter City), Jake Carroll (Hartlepool United), Sean Long (Luton Town), Jamie Devitt, Barry Roche (Morecambe), John-Joe O’Toole (Northampton Town), Graham Burke, Alan Sheehan (Notts County), Pat Hoban, Callum O’Dowda (Oxford United), Graham Carey, Carl McHugh (Plymouth Argyle), Michael Doyle, Brian Murphy, Enda Stevens (Portsmouth), Michael Harriman (Wycombe Wanderers), Michael Collins, Eddie Nolan (York City)
4 goalscorers– Seamus Conneely (Accrington Stanley), Rory Gaffney [2] (Cambridge United), Rhys Murphy (Crawley Town), Carl McHugh (Plymouth Argyle)
4 un-used substitutes– Gearoid Morrissey (Cambridge United), Jack Connors (Dag & Red), Alan Dunne (Leyton Orient), Mark O’Brien (Luton Town)
1 yellow card – Rhys Murphy (Crawley Town)
1 clean sheet– Brian Murphy (Portsmouth)

Scottish Premiership
5 appearances– Jonny Hayes, Adam Rooney (Aberdeen), Sean Dillon (Dundee United), Graham Cummins, Joe Shaughnessy (St Johnstone)
1 goalscorer– Adam Rooney (Aberdeen)

MLS
3 appearances– Kevin Doyle, Sean St Ledger (Colorado Rapids), Robbie Keane (LA Galaxy)
1 goalscorer– Robbie Keane (LA Galaxy)

Compiled by GARETH MAHER

Portugal will present formidable opposition, especially in front of their home fans in Moreira de Cónegos which is located between Porto and Braga in Northern Portugal. They are ranked 22nd in Europe, just three places behind Ireland, and warmed up for the Irish match with back to back friendlies against Ukraine last month where they drew 1-1 in the first game and lost 0-2 in the second.

But Ireland are a team on a mission this week as they feel they played well against Finland but were guilty of not taking their chances and giving up cheap goals. According to midfielder Denise O’Sullivan they are determined to build on the positives of that game.

“We are very determined. The result doesn’t reflect on the performance against Finland. I thought we played very well and we just didn’t take our chances. So we can take positives from that game and bring it into the Portugal game. I think we are well able to do well in this game,” said O’Sullivan.

The side have trained four times since flying into Portugal last Friday and the 21-year-old, who is set to win her 41st cap tomorrow, says all the sessions have helped to focus minds on what they need to do to get their EURO 2017 campaign back on track..

“Training has gone very well, everything is positive and the atmosphere around the squad is really good so we are excited for the game. Everyone is raring to go. The atmosphere is great and everyone is getting on really well as always and you see that in training. Everyone is buzzing around the place so I think we are very determined and we want three points from this game. “

O’Sullivan was part of the Ireland U17 squad that reached a European Final and a World Cup Quarter-Final in 2010 and says she would relish the opportunity to return to that type of stage.

“It would be fantastic. A senior Europeans would be great. I played Europeans before but that was only 17s so to do it here would be absolutely amazing and I think we can do it. I was watching the games during the World Cup in Canada and it just looked like a fantastic experience and it is something I want to be a part of. It would mean a lot and I think we are well capable of doing it.

O’Sullivan has come into this game on the back of another successful season at Glasgow  City where they have already won the League and League Cup and are homing in on the treble.

“We have two games to go but we have a cup final to win as well so we are still really focused and hopefully we can do that in two weeks’ time.”

The side were beaten 2-0 in their opening game Group 2 game last month by Finland despite creating twice as many chances as their opponents and they arrived in Portugal last Friday determined to get the job done properly this time.

Four training sessions later and Ronan has a fully fit squad of 20 to select from so she is quite happy so far with the response to the Finland defeat.

“My own players are in great form. They have trained really well all week. They are determined to put the disappointment of the defeat by Finland behind them and move on from there. We all feel we are capable of winning this game.”

The shadow of Finland has loomed large in the lives of the players and coaches over the past four weeks and Ronan admits they are relishing the opportunity t try and put things right tomorrow.

“It was very frustrating and disappointing.  We played really well, created lots of chances, very clear cut chances actually, and it was disappointing not to take one of those at least and possibly more. Then we conceded two sloppy goals from a counter attack and a set piece. That is something we are trying to eradicate this time around but, as I said, the girls are determined.

“The positives we took out of that game were how well we played. We created lots of chances, the tempo of the game was very, very good and we have taken that into the training all week and we have started where we left off. Everybody is in good form and available for selection so we are really looking forward to tomorrow.”

Although Portugal are technically fourth seeds in the group there is actually very little between them and Ireland. They are just three places behind Ireland in the European rankings and just missed out on being in the third seed pot at last April’s draw in Nyon.

In the recent World Cup qualifying campaign they finished fourth behind Norway, Netherlands and Belgium and their 12 points came from four wins, home and away, against Greece and Albania. While the Dutch did hammer them 7-0 at home, they performed much after that and suffered narrow losses at home to Norway and Belgium before redeeming themselves somewhat with a 3-2 defeat away to Netherlands where the game was poised at 2-2 with 30 minutes to go.

Ronan has been keen to stress in the build-up to this game that Portugal will be tough to beat and are an improving side that beat World Cup finalists Switzerland in a friendly earlier this year.

“We have watched Portugal in recent friendlies they have played because this is the first game in the campaign for them so they have no points on the board, like ourselves. We have watched what they do and they don’t change their strategy too much so we have prepared for that. They are a good team and we know if they don’t approach the game properly they will take full advantage.”

Republic of Ireland Squad (v Portugal)

Goalkeepers: Emma Byrne (Arsenal), Grace Moloney (Reading), Niamh Reid Burke (Shelbourne).

Defenders: Megan Campbell (Florida State University); Meabh De Burca (Galway), Karen Duggan (UCD Waves), Niamh Fahey (Chelsea), Louise Quinn (Eskilstuna); Sophie Perry (Brighton & Hove Albion).

Midfielders: Diane Caldwell (Avaldsness), Ruesha Littlejohn (Celtic), Grace Murray (Shelbourne), Denise O’Sullivan (Glasgow City), Julie-Ann Russell (UCD Waves).

Forwards: Carol Breen (Wexford Youths), Katie McCabe (Shelbourne), Aine O’Gorman (UCD Waves), Claire O’Riordan (Wexford Youths), Stephanie Roche (Sunderland), Clare Shine (Glasgow City).