Ireland finished the game with ten-men after Dara O'Shea was sent off in the second-half but the away side held on in the closing stages to stay top of Group One.  

Stephen Kenny gave four players their U-21 debut for the match. Thomas O'Connor, Nathan Collins, Danny McNamara and goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu all made their debut as Ireland dominated the vast majority of the contest. 

The first major chance of the game came in the 18th minute as Gavin Kilkenny found Connor Ronan in space on the left who crossed for Adam Idah, but his glancing header went narrowly over the bar. 

Eight minutes later, Ireland were inches away from opening the scoring as O'Connor's right-sided free-kick was whipped into the six-yard area but O'Shea was unable to reach the ball as it went past the far-post. 

The best chance of the first-half came just after the half-hour as the quick-thinking Elbouzedi intercepted the keeper's lofted clearance and after he headed it down for Ronan, Jason Knight was in on goal but fired narrowly wide. 

The chances were beginning to flow for Stephen Kenny's side and should have been ahead at the break. In the 37th minute, a fantastic tackle from Collins lead to a counter-attack with Elbouzedi and after the winger cut inside, his low effort was somehow palmed away. 

From the resulting corner, Armenia failed to clear at the first attempt and the ball fell for Collins in the six-yard area but his shot was also saved. 

The pressure continued in the second-half. Six minutes after the break, once again, Elbouzedi was involved as he engineered an angle on the left but his deflected cross somehow crawled past the mouth of the goal and away to safety. 

Ireland finally got the break-through in the 63rd minute. The impressive Knight won the ball back high up the pitch, played the industrious Idah down the line and his cross was dummied by Ronan to find Elbouzedi. Elbouzedi collected the ball and smashed home to finally give Ireland the lead they deserved. 

Ireland continued to look dangerous until the 76th minute when Dara O'Shea was shown a straight red card for his last-ditch tackle on Vahan Bichakhchyan. Despite the red card, Ireland remained composed and held out to claim an important three points as they remain top in Group One. 

"I'm delighted with the manner of performance. We handed four debuts in the starting line-up and Aidan Keena came off the bench to make his debut as well," said Kenny.

"To produce the real team performance we've produced with the short amount of time we've had to work with the team, I'm delighted and the players should be really proud of themselves. 

"It's an important victory in the campaign and now it's important for us to refocus on the Sweden game on Tuesday to make sure we can get another important result in front of a big crowd at Tallaght Stadium."

Armenia: Sevak Aslanyan (GK), Hrachya Geghamy, Hovhannes Nazaryan, Albert Khachumyan, Edgar Grigoryan, Karen Melkonyan, Hovhannes Harutyunyan (Aram Khamoyan 67), Armen Haovhannisyan, Armen Nahapetyan (Abraham Portugalyan 57), Vahan Bichakhchyan, Rudik Mkrtchyan (C). 

Subs not used: Mark Grigoryan (GK), Erik Vardanyan, Davit Nalbandyan, Arsen Sadoyan, Hakob Khachatryan, Edgar Movsesyan, Armen Asilyan. 

Republic of Ireland: Gavin Bazunu (GK), Danny McNamara, Dara O'Shea (C) (Liam Scales 76), Conor Coventry, Zack Elbouzedi, Adam Idah (Aidan Keena 86), Connor Ronan, Jason Knight, Nathan Collins, Gavin Kilkenny (Jack Taylor 81), Thomas O'Connor.

Subs not used: Conor Kearns (GK), Kameron Ledwidge, Corey O'Keefe, Danny Grant, Dan Mandroiu, Simon Power. 

Referee: Antti Munukka (FIN)

Booking(s): Jason Knight.

Red Card(s): Dara O'Shea

Goals from Julian Vonmoos and Lorent Tolaj cancelled out Oisin McEntee’s early goal with Ireland ending the match with 10 men following Mazeed Ogungbo’s dismissal for a second yellow card.

The game had been due to take place Wednesday afternoon but heavy snow in Austria meant the game was postponed until Thursday.
 
It had been the dream start for Ireland when they took an early lead. Armstrong Oko-Flex crossed in from a short corner and McEntee provided the back-post finish to give Tom Mohan’s side a superb lead.
 
From that moment on Switzerland grew into the game. On 12 minutes they had a great opportunity when Vonmoos went one-on-one but Jimmy Corcoran was quick to close down the advancing attacker and the ball went harmlessly wide.
 
Half way through the first half the Swiss had another chance when Felix Mambimbi collected a fine chip over the top however he saw his effort from inside the 18-yard-box deflect over the bar.
 
Ireland battled hard to preserve their lead and did well to thwart any threats from the Swiss attack and went in at the break ahead.
 
In the second half Switzerland continued the pressure and they got back on level terms on 57 minutes. Vonmoos took advantage of a counter attack from an Ireland free-kick and the Basel forward was able to apply the finish.
 
Less than 10 minutes later came a big moment in the game. Ogbungo, who had already received a caution, was shown a second yellow card by referee Kirill Levnikov and sent off.
 
On 79 minutes came what proved to be the winning goal. Substitute Tolaj, who had only been on the pitch a matter of minutes, reacted fastest to a rebounded shot to convert his effort.
 
Despite being a man down Ireland had several chances to equalise late on. First Oko-Flex had his shot well saved by Nils De Mol. Then Mark McGuinness' header found Thomas Cannon for an overhead kick but De Mol was equal to that too.
 
Mohan’s side now face a crucial game on Saturday against Gibraltar in Straßwalchen at 12pm (Irish time).
 
Ireland: Corcoran; Ebosele, Ogungbo, McGuinness, McEntee (C); O’Reilly, Everitt (Gilbert 46), Coffey, Noss (Cannon 86), Oko-Flex (Richards 67); Cassidy (Wright 86)
 
Switzerland: De Mol; Frei, Mistrafovic, Stergiou, Omeragic; Sohm (C) (Cuemi 90+1, Males (Vasic 65), Jankewitz; Vonmoos (Bunjaku 90+1), Azevedo, Mambimbi (Tolaj 74)
 
Referee: Kirill Levnikov (Russia)

Ireland finished the game with ten-men after Dara O'Shea was sent off in the second-half but the away side held on in the closing stages to stay top of Group One.

Watch highlights of the match in Yerevan on FAI TV. Footage courtesy of eirSport.

First Ireland goals for Derrick Williams, Sean Maguire and Callum Robinson was enough to see the home side claim the win against a spirited Kiwi team, who had taken the lead through Callum McCowatt.

Mick McCarthy’s much-changed eleven created their first goal scoring opportunity of note in the 12th minute but after a neat turn from Alan Browne on the right of the penalty area, Derrick Williams could only stab his cross wide of the bottom right corner.

Sean Maguire went close midway through the half but after he raced onto Kevin Long’s excellent pass over the top of the defence, visiting goalkeeper Stefan Marinovic did well to smother his effort.

The All Whites punished their opponents as they took the lead against the run of play just shy of the half an hour mark through Callum McCowatt.

A quick, incisive move allowed Liberato Cacace to swing in a low cross from the left and McCowatt expertly slotted the ball past the helpless goalkeeper from close range.

Maguire looped a header wide of the far post moments later but the Irish would level terms on the stroke of half time as Williams powerfully nodded Robbie Brady’s out-swinging corner back inside the left post for his first-ever goal for his country.

And they would complete the turnaround at the beginning of the second half as Maguire also netted his first goal for the Republic with a superb finish.

Debutant Troy Parrott forced the defence into relinquishing possession just outside the box and after teeing up Maguire, the Preston North End forward drilled his shot into the top right corner.

They sealed the victory with 15 minutes remaining as another debutant Lee O’Connor picked out Callum Robinson with a sensational cross from the right flank and the Sheffield United striker headed home his first international goal from a few yards.

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND: Kieran O’Hara (Mark Travers 65), Lee O’Connor, Kevin Long, Sean Maguire (James Collins 74, Alan Browne (Conor Hourihane 64), Robbie Brady, Troy Parrott (Callum Robinson 63), Jack Byrne (Alan Judge 63), Josh Cullen, Ciaran Clark, Derrick Williams (Callum O’Dowda 56).

NEW ZEALAND: Stefan Marinovic, Winston Reid (Bill Tuiloma ht), Liberato Cacace, Michael Boxall (Tommy Smith 74), Joe Bell, Chris Wood (Andrew De Jong 76), Sarpreet Singh, Callum McCowatt, Ryan Thomas (Michael McGlinchey 74), Storm Roux (Tim Payne 92), Elijah Just.  

Referee: Robert Jenkins (Wales).

Two second-half goals from Ben McCormack either side of an Anselmo Garcia McNulty header gave Colin O’Brien’s side all three points in Cork.
 
A win on Monday against Israel would confirm top spot in Group 3 after Andorra shocked the Israelis with a 1-0 win at St Colman’s Park in Cobh.
 
Ireland started the brighter of the teams and could have been one up after five minutes. Tayo Adaramola got beyond Milan Radovic and delivered a superb cross but Sinclair Armstrong fired over the bar from close range.
 
The hosts came close again soon after. A free by Robbie Mahon was floated into the box and the flick on just avoided the head of Evan Ferguson who was threatening from the back post.
 
Ireland controlled the tempo of the game with wide players Armstrong and Mahon constantly asking questions of the Montenegro full backs.
 
Despite their possession Montenegro proved difficult to break down and the sides went in at the break all square.
 
After half-time Ireland stepped it up a gear. Armstrong again was involved doing brilliantly to beat his full back but his cross flashed across the face of the Montenegro goal.
 
Then two minutes later Ferguson almost produced a moment of magic. The ball fell to the Bohemians forward on the edge of the area and his chip left Nikola Ivezic stranded but it just fell the wrong side of the post.
 
Armstrong continued to influence the game and another cross from the Shamrock Rovers forward found Mahon but he couldn’t add to the goal he netted against Andorra.
 
Then came the break through on 55 minutes McCormack’s free kick on the angle of the penalty area was whipped in and it evaded everyone and nestled in the bottom of Ivezic’s net.
 
But their lead didn’t last long. Ognjen Bakic found himself one-on-one and despite his effort deflecting off the outstretched leg of Daniel Rose it rolled into the bottom corner.
 
Ireland came back and McCormack’s long range effort had Ivezic’s at full stretch to tip it around the post for a corner.
 
From the resulting corner St Patrick’s Athletic man McCormack found the head of Garcia McNulty to nod in on 64 minutes and send Turner’s Cross wild.
 
Not content with two, Ireland pressed for another and substitute Oliver O’Neill stung the palms of the Montenegro stopper in their pursuit for a third.
 
The third did eventually come and it was McCormack again. Conway dribbled his way into the Montenegro box and struck a low effort that hit the post. It fell to McCormack who fired home to make it 3-1.
 
Ireland: Rose, O’Brien (C), Adaramola, Kavanagh, Garcia McNulty, Conway, Armstrong, Conroy, McCormack, Mahon (O’Neill 65), Ferguson.
 
Montenegro: Ivezic, Radovic, Bozovic, Vukotic (C), Bajovic, Ernec (Vujacic 82), Bakic, Radojicic, Jokovic, Velijic (Cetkovic. 77), Suskavcevic, (Rastoder 68).
 
Referee: Ferenc Karako (Hungary)
 
Fixture
Monday, November 18: Ireland v Israel, Turner’s Cross, Cork, KO 2pm
 

Ireland welcome Sweden to Tallaght Stadium on Tuesday, November 19, with kick-off at 8pm, as they look for another crucial victory after the 1-0 win over Armenia on Thursday.

Captain Jayson Molumby and defender Lee O'Connor return to the squad after their suspension for the Armenia game whilst Conor Masterson is welcomed back after he recovered from injury.

Dara O'Shea will be suspended for the Sweden game due to his red card against Armenia but will remain with the squad.

The squad returned to Ireland yesterday and will train tomorrow at the FAI National Training Centre in preparation for Tuesday's match.

Republic of Ireland U-21 squad v Sweden

Goalkeepers: Gavin Bazunu (Manchester City), Conor Kearns (UCD AFC).

Defenders: Lee O'Connor (Celtic), Thomas O'Connor (Gillingham, on loan from Southampton), Danny McNamara (Newport County, on loan from Millwall), Conor Masterson (QPR), Liam Scales (UCD AFC), Nathan Collins (Stoke City), Corey O'Keefe (Macclesfield Town, on loan from Birmingham City), Kameron Ledwidge (Southampton).

Midfielders: Jayson Molumby (Millwall, on loan from Brighton and Hove Albion), Jason Knight (Derby County), Conor Coventry (West Ham United), Jack Taylor (Barnet), Jack Clarke (Aston Villa), Connor Ronan (DAC Dunajská Streda, on loan from Wolverhampton Wanderers), Dan Mandroiu (Bohemians).

Wingers: Zack Elbouzedi (Waterford), Gavin Kilkenny (AFC Bournemouth), Danny Grant (Bohemians), Simon Power (Ross County, on loan from Norwich City).

Forwards: Adam Idah (Norwich City), Aidan Keena (Hearts), Anthony Scully (West Ham United).

Tyreik Wright hit four as Ireland cruised to victory in Straßwalchen, Austria. There were also first international goals for Lewis Richards, Jamie Bowden, Tom Cannon and Ryan Cassidy. Andrew Omobamidele, Mark McGuinness and Ross Tierney, also found the net.
 
It now means Ireland head into the game with Austria needing a win for a chance to qualify for the Elite Round.
 
Ireland were dominant from start to finish and took the lead on six minutes through Aston Villa man Wright. Alex Gilbert fired at goal but Wright was on hand to slide in to finish.
 
On 15 minutes Richards had his first goal for Ireland.  A corner from Bowden fell to the Wolves defender who volleyed home from close range.
 
And it was another Bowden corner that led to number three. This time Omobamidele found the net with a header. Two minutes later Bowden went from creator to scorer. Good play from Wright saw him cross from the right towards Alex Gilbert who headed across goal for Bowden to tap in for 4-0.
 
Ireland started the second half as they started the first. Wright reacted fastest to a save from Bradley Avellano to make it 5-0 with 47 minutes gone. 
 
On 54 minutes Wright completed his hat-trick superbly finding the top corner from the edge of the area.
 
Ireland weren’t letting up and McGuinness headed in from a corner on 55 minutes for seven and Tierney took advantage of a rebound for number eight. Cannon made it 9-0 with a neat finish when he found the bottom corner from outside the box.
 
Bowden got his second of the game to make it 10 on 73 minutes when he headed into the top corner.
 
Then came three goals in the final 10 minutes of the game. It came from another corner for Ireland and it was another goal with McGuinness’ header adjudged to have come off Gibraltar substitute Shay Jones for an own goal.
 
Wright got his fourth of the game when he beat the keeper from the edge of the area and Cassidy made it 13-0 in added time when he got ahead of the last defender in the box to wrap up the scoring.
 
Ireland: Bohan; McEntee (C) (McGuinness 46) Omobamidele, Richards, Sobowale; Coffey (Cassidy 68), Bowden (Ebosele 90), Tierney; Wright, Cannon (Oko-Flex), Gilbert.
 
Gibraltar: Avellano (Hernandez 79); Bossano (Galliano 74), Vinet, Montovio (Matto 64); Parral, El Yettefi (De Haro 30), Del Rio (C), Bautista (Jones 31), Ramagge, Gracia. 
 
Fixture
Tuesday, November 19: Ireland v Austria, HCS Arena Nonntal, Salzburg, KO 1.30pm (Irish time)
 
 

Randolph was back in the Middlesbrough team last weekend after a spell on the sidelines with a thigh injury and had worked mostly in the gym prior to Saturday’s return to the training ground.

“I said we’d wrap Darren in cotton wool ahead of the Denmark match and we’ve almost been true to my word,” laughed Ireland boss Mick McCarthy after the penultimate session before the Denmark tie.

“He wasn’t involved for the New Zealand win on Thursday night and he’s done most of his work in the gym this week so it was great to see him working on the pitch today.

“Like everyone else in the squad, Darren is fit and rearing to go and he can’t wait for the game now.”

McCarthy and his players watched Denmark’s 6-0 win over Gibraltar after dinner on Friday night with the manager also keeping an eye on Switzerland’s 1-0 victory against Georgia.

The Ireland manager told FAI.ie: “The results on Friday were exactly as expected but with Switzerland-Georgia being such a close game, I did cheer that late Switzerland goal as it means a one goal win will do us on Monday.

“Denmark will be happy with their result but we knew before their game that we’d have to beat them and that’s still the case. Nothing has changed.”

Ireland go into the friendly double-header (both at Eamonn Deacy Park) in high confidence with three wins out of three in the tournament, scoring 15 goals on the way.

Donohue has named an 19-player squad for the friendlies in Galway with Cabinteely’s Alex Nolan receiving a first international call up.

Donohue said: “We had the benefit of being together for the UEFA Development Tournament and that has helped us knit as a group. Poland have also had their own tournament so there would have been a lot of contact time between themselves so make no mistake this will be two tough encounters for our boys. 

“We have an exciting team that loves to attack and with that in mind we’re going out there to win each of our games. 

"I’m delighted to bring this team to Galway, the Galway Football Association have been brilliant with us and the lads will have an opportunity to play at a great stadium and on arguably the best pitch in the country.”

Republic of Ireland squad

Goalkeepers: Shay O’Leary (Shamrock Rovers), Conor Walsh (Mayo SL)

Defenders: Finn Cowper Gray (Klub Kildare), Luke O’Brien (Bray Wanderers), Tristan Hughes (Shamrock Rovers), Daniel Kelly (Mayo SL), Sam Curtis (Shamrock Rovers) Cathal Heffernan (Cork City)

Midfielders: Justin Ferizaj (Shamrock Rovers), Cian Barrett (Shamrock Rovers), Adam Murphy (Belvedere), Joe O’Brien Whitmarsh (Cork City), James McManus (St Kevin’s Boys / Bohemians) Rocco Vata (Celtic)

Forwards: Gideon Tetteh (Shamrock Rovers), Caden McLaughlin (Malaga CF), Adam Nugent (Mayo SL), Kevin Zeffi (Shamrock Rovers), Alex Nolan (Cabinteely)

Fixtures
Tuesday, November 19: Ireland v Poland, KO 7.30pm, Eamonn Deacy Park, Galway United
Thursday, November 21: Ireland v Poland, KO 12pm, Eamonn Deacy Park, Galway United

McNamara made his Ireland U-21 debut against Armenia with a fantastic performance in the 1-0 win whilst Jack Taylor came on in the final minutes to take his third appearance for the side. 

Today, the duo took each other on in roommates, the final roommates of 2019 and they raise the bar to new levels. 

Watch on FAI TV above now. 

The youngsters from St. Mary’s Diocesan School, Drogheda, Louth (Boys) and Presentation Secondary School, Wexford (Girls) will both carry the hopes of a Leinster victory into the National Finals on Thursday, December 5 in the WIT Arena, Waterford.

There was great excitement in the air on Tuesday (November 12) as twelve girls’ teams descended upon the South Dublin venue to compete for provincial honours.

In Group 1, there was a tightly contested battle among Loreto Secondary School, Kilkenny, Presentation Secondary School, Wexford and Colaiste Bhride, Carnew, Wicklow setting high expectations of one another to advance to the day’s final.

The group decider was claimed by the Wexford Champions, Presentation SS, who defeated their Kilkenny counterparts, Loreto SS, 2-1.

Colaiste Bhride battled back from a slow start to take the runners-up spot in the group.

In Group 2, Kishoge Community College, Lucan were in devastating form in their opening games. The West Dublin side were unbeaten throughout their group and advanced to the Final with ease. The runners up spot was filled by Athlone Community College, Westmeath who represented their school with pride.

In the finale of the day, after an enthralling match between the Champions of Wexford and Dublin, it took the late goals of the excellent Emma Cullen to book Presentation Secondary School’s ticket to the National Finals. 

The second day in the National Basketball Arena belonged to the boys as the 12 counties did battle on Wednesday (November 13).

St. Mary’s Diocesan School, Drogheda were the standout performers in Group 1. They secured twelve points from a possible fifteen with sixteen goals to their tally. Their defence only breached twice in a competitive group containing Wexford CBS and Colaiste Bhride, Carnew, who would finish second and third respectively.

Group 2 left no nails on the hands of the keen spectators as the action went down to the final kick of the game. Maynooth Post-Primary School, Kildare missed out on the opportunity to join Mountmellick Community School and Drimnagh Castle, Dublin at the summit of the table when they were defeated by Colaiste Choilm, Tullamore by a 5-3 scoreline in their final game.

Both Drimnagh Castle and Mountmellick CC would finish the day on ten points however the deciding tiebreaker of results between both teams proved to be the difference as Mountmellick toasted their earlier 3-1 success over their Dublin rivals.

The Final was fast and furious from the opening whistle with Mountmellick taking an early lead after three minutes of action. The opening exchanges were dominated by the Laois champions however the Louth men came back to life just before the interval. They levelled proceedings midway through the game and seized the advantage with a second goal immediately after. The sucker punch raised no response from the Midlands side and St. Mary’s DS finished the day as 3-1 victors.

Post-Primary First Year Leinster Futsal Finals Results

Boys Group 1

Colaiste Bhride, Carnew, Wicklow 3-1 Boyne Community School, Meath

Tullow Community School, Carlow 0-0 Wexford CBS

Grennan College, Kilkenny 0-4 St. Marys DS, Drogheda, Louth

Colaiste Bhride, Carnew, Wicklow 1-1 Tullow Community School, Carlow

Boyne Community School, Meath 0-4 Grennan College, Kilkenny

Wexford CBS 0-3 S St. Marys DS, Drogheda, Louth

Colaiste Bhride, Carnew, Wicklow 2-0 Grennan College, Kilkenny

Tullow Community School, Carlow 0-5 St. Marys DS, Drogheda, Louth

Boyne Community School, Meath 0-1 Wexford CBS

Colaiste Bhride, Carnew, Wicklow 0-4 St. Marys DS, Drogheda, Louth

Wexford CBS 3-0 Grennan College, Kilkenny

Boyne Community School, Meath 5-0 Tullow Community School, Carlow

Colaiste Bhride, Carnew, Wicklow 1-3 Wexford CBS

Boyne Community School, Meath 2-0 St. Marys DS, Drogheda, Louth

Tullow Community School, Carlow 2-1 Grennan College, Kilkenny

Boys Group 2

Driminagh Castle, Dublin 1-0 Athlone Community College, Westmeath

Colaiste Choilm, Tullamore, Offaly 1-1 Mercy Secondary School, Ballymahon, Longford

Maynooth Post Primary, Kildare 3-0 Mountmellick Community School, Laois

Driminagh Castle, Dublin 2-0 Colaiste Choilm, Tullamore, Offaly

Athlone Community College, Westmeath 1-3 Maynooth Post Primary, Kildare

Mercy Secondary School, Ballymahon, Longford 0-3 Mountmellick Community School, Laois

Driminagh Castle, Dublin 3-1 Maynooth Post Primary, Kildare

Colaiste Choilm, Tullamore, Offaly 2-2 Mountmellick Community School, Laois

Athlone Community College, Westmeath 0-6 Mercy Secondary School, Ballymahon, Longford

Driminagh Castle, Dublin 1-3 Mountmellick Community School, Laois

Mercy Ballymahon 3-3 Maynooth Post Primary, Kildare

Athlone Community College, Westmeath 0-1 Colaiste Choilm, Tullamore, Offaly

Driminagh Castle, Dublin 1-1 Mercy Secondary School, Ballymahon, Longford

Athlone Community College, Westmeath 3-6 Mountmellick Community School, Laois

Colaiste Choilm, Tullamore, Offaly 5-3 Maynooth Post Primary, Kildare

Boys Final

St. Marys DS, Drogheda, Louth 3-2 Mountmellick Community School, Laois

Girls Group 1

Colaiste Bhride, Carnew, Wicklow 1-1 Eureka Secondary School, Kells, Meath

St. Leos College, Carlow 0-1 Presentation Secondary School, Wexford

Loreto Secondary School, Kilkenny 2-0 Scoil Ui Mhuiri, Dunleer, Louth

Colaiste Bhride, Carnew, Wicklow 4-0 St. Leos College, Carlow

Eureka Secondary School, Kells, Meath 1-4 Loreto Secondary School, Kilkenny

Presentation Secondary School, Wexford 2-0 Scoil Ui Mhuiri, Dunleer, Louth

Colaiste Bhride, Carnew, Wicklow 1-4 Loreto Secondary School, Kilkenny

St. Leos College, Carlow 2-1 Scoil Ui Mhuiri, Dunleer, Louth

Eureka Secondary School, Kells, Meath 1-4 Presentation Secondary School, Wexford

Colaiste Bhride, Carnew, Wicklow 3-2 Scoil Ui Mhuiri, Dunleer, Louth

Presentation Secondary School, Wexford 2-1 Loreto Secondary School, Kilkenny

Eureka Secondary School, Kells, Meath 1-2 S St. Leos College, Carlow

Colaiste Bhride, Carnew, Wicklow 1-0 Presentation Secondary School, Wexford

Eureka Secondary School, Kells, Meath 0-2 Scoil Ui Mhuiri, Dunleer, Louth

St. Leos College, Carlow 1-0 Loreto Secondary School, Kilkenny

Girls Group 2

Kishoge Community College, Lucan, Dublin 3-1 Athlone Community College, Westmeath

Sacred Heart, Tullamore, Offaly 2-3 Ardscoil Phradig, Granard, Longford

Maynooth Post Primary School, Kildare 5-0 Scoil Chríost Rí, Laois

Kishoge Community College, Lucan, Dublin 5-2 Sacred Heart, Tullamore, Offaly

Athlone Community College, Westmeath 0-0 Maynooth Post Primary School, Kildare

Ardscoil Phradig, Granard, Longford 0-2 Scoil Chríost Rí, Laois

Kishoge Community College, Lucan, Dublin 3-1 Maynooth Post Primary School, Kildare

Sacred Heart, Tullamore, Offaly 4-0 Scoil Chríost Rí, Laois

Athlone Community College, Westmeath 3-1 Ardscoil Phradig, Granard, Longford

Kishoge Community College, Lucan, Dublin 6-0 Scoil Chríost Rí , Laois

Ardscoil Phradig, Granard, Longford 2-3 Maynooth Post Primary School, Kildare

Athlone Community College, Westmeath 2-0 Sacred Heart, Tullamore, Offaly

Kishoge Community College, Lucan, Dublin 5-1 Ardscoil Phradig, Granard, Longford

Athlone Community College, Westmeath 2-1 Scoil Chríost Rí, Laois

Sacred Heart, Tullamore, Offaly 1-0 Maynooth Post Primary School, Kildare

Girls Final

Presentation Secondary School, Wexford 2-0 Kishoge Community College, Lucan, Dublin

FAI Post Primary Schools First Year Futsal Dates

Munster Finals - Waterford IT Arena - November 19, 2019

Connacht Finals- IT Sligo - November 20, 2019

National Finals - Waterford IT Arena - December 5, 2019

At the Castle Oaks Hotels in Limerick on Saturday evening, Jarrett was honoured as the outstanding player of 2019 in a season that saw her help Wexford Youths win the Só Hotels FAI Women's Cup at Aviva Stadium, score her first senior goal for the Republic of Ireland, and claim the Top Goalscorer award in the League.

The Wexford native was first up to the stage to collect her trophy for the Top Goalscorer - which was sponsored by Evoke.ie - and she returned as one of the 11 players to make the Team of the Season. But a third trip was required to get her hands on the night's big prize.

Galway WFC's Kayla Brady was named Under-17 Player of the Year, while Shelbourne's Emily Whelan got the Young Player of the Year Award.

Eamon Naughton was also recognised on the night as he was given a special Services to the Women's National League award for his hard work and dedication since the League's inception.

Só Hotels Women's National League Player of the Year
Rianna Jarrett (Wexford Youths)

Só Hotels Women's National League Young Player of the Year
Emily Whelan (Shelbourne)

Só Hotels Women's National Under-17 League Player of the Year
Kayla Brady (Galway WFC)

So Hotels Women's National League - Team of the Season

Goalkeeper
Naoisha McAloon (Peamount United)

Defenders
Sadhbh Doyle (Galway WFC)
Claire Walsh (Peamount United)
Jamie Finn (Shelbourne)
Lauren Dwyer (Wexford Youths)

Midfielders
Eleanor Ryan Doyle (Peamount United)
Megan Smyth-Lynch (Peamount United)
Alex Kavanagh (Shelbourne)
Kylie Murphy (Wexford Youths)

Forwards
Emily Whelan (Shelbourne)
Rianna Jarrett (Wexford Youths)

Hot shot Colm Whelan is expected to make his debut for UCD in the competition, Whelan who began his studies at Belfield in September has come off the back of a tremendous season for Waterford FC in the SSE Airtricity National Under 19 League where he finished as the league’s overall top scorer with 27 goals as the ‘Blues’ claimed their first ever title at this level and a place in next season’s UEFA Youth League.

UCD will be among the fancied sides to do well in this years competition and their squad will include Jack Keaney and Liam Kerrigan who both arrived at Belfield during the summer from Sligo Rovers to bolster their SSE Airtricity Premier Division squad plus Finn Harps defender Michael Gallagher and Kerry League's Joe Carmody with the bulk coming from the UCD under 19 squad.  

Holders University of Limerick who defeated UCC in last season’s decider at UCD Belfield are among eight university sides taking part and although they will have to field a completely new line up the holders will again be ranked as one of the favourites to do well. Ciaran O’Reilly the new head coach of the UL freshers is a local and a recent graduate of the football degree course at IT Carlow.

O'Reilly was part of the Carlow side that claimed the Colleges and Universities Premier League title last season and he's delighted to get the chance to work with this group. “Ian Sullivan, the UL first team manager has been impressed and recently he has already included two of the freshers defender Tom Carney and midfielder Olu Solake in his squad for CUFL Premier League games. The training sessions have been good and I’m pleased with the response and we did well in a couple of friendlies with local clubs so I’m looking forward now to taking on Maynooth University in our opening quarter final tie on Monday.”

Kevin Cassidy the NUI Galway manager feels it's a bonus to have Galway United U19 players Caylem Crowe, Caoilfhinn O’Dea and Joe Thompson in his squad to face last season’s defeat finalists UCC in Monday’s quarter-final. “These lads had a great season with Galway in the SSE Airtricity U19 League and only lost out to Waterford in the final so their experience will be a great help.”

Queens University Belfast will be making a welcome return to the Harding Cup after an absence of several years and as the host University they will be expected to field a strong side with great expectations of a home win. 

FIXTURES (All games at Queens University Dub Sports Grounds Belfast) 

MONDAY NOVEMBER 18
IUFU Rustlers Harding Cup: Quarter Finals
Maynooth University v University of Limerick (11:00)
UCC v NUI Galway (11:00)
DCU v UCD (14:00)
Trinity College Dublin v Queens University Belfast (14:00)

TUESDAY NOVEMBER 19 
IUFU Rustlers Harding Cup: Semi Finals
Winner-UCC/NUI Galway v Winner-DCU/UCD (14:00)
Winner-Trinity College Dublin/Queens University Belfast v Winner-Maynooth University/University of Limerick (14:00)

IUFU Rustlers Spillane Cup: Semi Finals
Loser-UCC/NUI Galway v Loser-DCU/UCD (11:00)
Loser-Trinity College Dublin/Queens University Belfast v Loser-Maynooth University/University of Limerick (11:00).

WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 20
IUFU Rustlers Harding Cup: Final
Queens University Dub Sports Grounds Belfast (13:30)

IUFU Rustlers Spillane Cup: Final
Queens University Dub Sports Grounds Belfast (11:00)

Rob Ellison’s side only required a draw in the tie to see them victorious. A goal in each half was enough to see off title contenders Munster in a really entertaining contest.

The outing demonstrated the pedigree of the Leinster squad thus ensuring their seventh title in a decade.

The Champions continued their 100% record in the series and put in a flawless display to notch up five goals in three games and maintain an impressive clean sheet among some tough opponents.

They emulated the success of the Under 18 Boys’ Leinster side following their win last week in the same venue, cementing an impressive double in the Interprovincial series.

MATCH DAY THREE
Abbie Larkin was industrious in the opening period and dragged an effort short of the far post a few minutes in. However Larkin hit the back of the net with 11 minutes played when Aoife Kelly (Presentation College, Carlow) played a lovely ball to the feet of the Ringsend grad, who latched onto it from outside the box.

Leinster could have went 2-0 up just before the break as Eve O’Brien’s strike hit the crossbar.

Ellison’s side extended their lead nine minutes into the restart with O’Brien (Woodbrook College, Bray) showing some fancy footwork with both feet to slot past the diving Munster shot-stopper from distance.

Munster were plagued with injuries but kept looking for an elusive goal to bring them back into contention. However, Leinster’s defence were alert to the challenge and smartly saw the game out to ensure a worthy victory in the end. 

In the other outing of the morning, it was Rola Olusola that netted a brace to see off Ulster in their final appearance in the contest.

The Merlin College scholar hit two second half goals, the first coming four minutes in while Ulster equalised through an OG on 44 minutes with a delightful corner kick.

Connacht went ahead two minutes later with a brilliant finish from Olusola. 

MATCH DAY TWO
The Saturday afternoon fixtures saw Leinster claim the two points over Ulster. Larkin CC student Leah Tighe had her initial strike hit off the crossbar but Abbie Larkin (Ringsend College) was on hand to tap in at the far post on 17 minutes.

Their lead was doubled ten minutes from time when an audaciously high ball in the box was deemed to have crossed the line from an Eve O’Brien (Woodbrook College, Bray) attack.

While Munster and Connacht played out a five goal thriller in the later fixture.

Munster were two up inside thirteen minutes through Captain Heidi O’Sullivan. The Regina Mundi College scholar had some lovely passages of play with Shauna Pearson (St. Mary’s SS, Newport) to bag her brace.

However Connacht got a foothold in proceedings to bring the game level with two screamers from Isabella Fitzpatrick (Dominican College, Taylor’s Hill) ten minutes from time.

There was a serious injury to Meabh Russell (Loreto SS, Clonmel) which saw a lengthy delay and four minutes of injury time played.

Again it was a match winning performance from Captain O’Sullivan who popped up with a 35 yard free kick to win the game for Munster, thus securing her hat-trick with seconds left in the bruising encounter.  A wonderful showcase from both teams.

MATCH DAY ONE
A Leah Tighe (Larkin CC) rocket nine minutes from time set up the defending Champions nicely against Connacht in the opening match, winning out 1-0 to Dom Coll’s crew. A really enjoyable test for both teams which may have merited a draw over the sixty minutes.

It was honours even in the second game of the evening with Munster and Ulster finishing one apiece.

Coláiste Ailigh star Erin Doherty hit the woodwork six minutes from the interval while Ellie Long (Carndonagh CS) broke the deadlock five minutes into the restart.

Munster responded ten minutes later with Niamh Cptter(Coláiste na Toirbhirte, Bandon) equalising.

INTERNATIONAL SELECTION
As well as provincial honours this weekend, our International management staff use this tournament as the key recruiting tool for their Republic of Ireland Schools select.

Following the tournament this afternoon, an extended panel will be invited back for trial on Saturday, November 30 in FAI HQ, Abbotstown.

Richard Berkeley, teacher in Sancta Maria College, Louisburgh had a fabulous management debut in 2018 and this was followed up with another remarkable record last year retaining the Bob Docherty Cup and John Read Trophy in sunny Salou.

The standard of football has been immense this year and Berkeley and his management team will be looking to capture an elusive three in-a-row when the squad travel to Manchester at Easter to compete in the Home Nations tournament.

The 68 players lined out this weekend will be hoping for a call-up in a fortnight’s time as Berkeley’s title defence will be on the line.

INTERPROVINCIAL PANELS
CONNACHT:  Sarah Kiernan (Abbey Community School, Boyle), Kate Thompson, Hannah Glynn (Coláiste Iognáid, Galway), Lara Swann (Sligo Grammar School), Leanne Regan, Eve Dossen, Daisy O’Connell, Leah O’Connor, Isabella Fitzpatrick (Dominican College, Taylor’s Hill), Heather O’Sullivan (Roscommon Community School), Katie McGuire (Grange Post Primary School, Sligo), Alice Lillie (Ursuline College, Sligo), Rola Olusola (Merlin College, Galway), Kerri Ann O’Hara, Rebecca Doddy, Jessica Casey (St. Attracta’s Community School, Tubbercurry), Sky Corcoran (Presentation College, Athenry)

ULSTER: Leah McLoughlin, Rachael Friel (Mulroy College, Milford), Ella McHugh, Shania McMonagle (Deele College, Raphoe), Niamh Harkin, Jodie Loughrey (Scoil Mhuire, Buncrana) Ellie Long (Carndonagh Community School) Erin Doherty (Coláiste Ailigh, Letterkenny) Stranorlar) Erika Gallagher, Nicole McDaid, Hannah Hopkins, Darcey Kelly (Loreto Convent, Letterkenny), Ciara Molly (Gairmscoil Chú Uladh, Ballinamore), Sarah McGinley, Emily Irwin, Siobhán Cameron (Loreto Community School, Milford), Claire Diver (Rosses Community School, Dungloe)

LEINSTER: Summer Lawless (Ballymakenny College, Drogheda), Ava Gibson Doyle (St. Laurence College, Loughlinstown), Liadan Clynch (Bush Post Primary School, Dundalk), Aoibhe Fleming (Lucan Community College), Jessie Stapleton (Palmerstown Community School), Jade Flannery (Clonturk Community College), Eve O’Brien (Woodbrook College, Bray), Leah Tighe (Larkin Community College), Katie Law (Presentation Secondary School, Wexford), Allie Larkin (Ringsend College), Kate Skillington (Santa Sabina Dominican College), Orlaith O’Mahony (St. Farnan’s Post Primary School, Prosperous), Tara O’Hanlon (Castleknock Community College), Ruby Atkinson (St. Joseph’s Secondary School, Rush), Ciara Giles (Dominican College, Griffith Avenue), Claudia Keenan (Ardscoil Rathagan), Aoife Kelly (Presentation College, Carlow)

MUNSTER: Caoilinn Casey, Jenny Ryan (Cashel Community School), Meabh Russell (Loreto Secondary School, Clonmel), Libby Costelloe (Laurel Hill Secondary School), Nicole Nix (Laurel Hill Coláiste), Jodie Griffin (Ardscoil Mhuire, Corbally), Ellie O'Brien (Scoil Muire gan Smál, Blarney), Heidi O'Sullivan (Regina Mundi College, Cork), Caoimhe Golden (Coláiste Choilm, Ballincollig), Michaela Lawrence, Grace Flanagan (Presentation Secondary School, Thurles), Grace Fitzpatrick, Sarah Bell (Ursuline Secondary School, Thurles), Ellie O’Brien (Scoil Muire gan Smál, Blarney), Leah Martin (Scoil na Tríonóide Naofa, Doon), Shauna Pearson (St. Mary’s Secondary School, Newport), Niamh Cotter (Coláiste na Toirbhirte, Bandon), Amy Madden (St. Patrick’s Comprehensive School, Shannon)

RESULTS
Friday, November 15
Leinster 1-0 Connacht | POTM Abbie LARKIN, Ringsend College
Ulster 1-1 Munster | POTM Ellie LONG, Carndonagh Community School

Saturday, November 16
Leinster 2-0 Ulster | POTM Tara O’HANLON, Castleknock College
Munster 3-2 Connacht | POTM Heidi O’SULLIVAN, Regina Mundi College, Cork

Sunday, November 17
Connacht 2-1 Ulster | POTM Rola OLUSOLA, Merlin College, Galway
Munster 0-2 Leinster | POTM Aoife KELLY, Presentation College, Carlow

The six-year programme, sponsored by Mrs. Brown’s Boys and endorsed by stars Brendan O’Carroll and his wife Jenny, kicked off last January and already over 1600 boys and girls have been screened in the National Leagues.

Mrs. Brown’s Boys have committed €430,000 over six years to the programme which has been developed under the guidance of FAI Medical Director, Dr Alan Byrne.

The Heart Care Programme has already referred 85 young footballers for cardiology assessment and treatment, 50 of these referrals were based on ECG results, 30 on physical examination and/or symptoms and 5 on family history.

In one case, a 15-year-old boy is now under the care of a cardiologist and undergoing keyhole surgery in the next 12 months after the discovery of a heart murmur.

A 13-year-old boy underwent a cardiac ablation in July following ECG readings outside the normal range while a 15-year-old boy will also undergo cardiac ablation but can continue to play football until his procedure.

With over 5,000 Sudden Cardiac Deaths in Ireland every year, Mrs. Brown’s Boys and the FAI are committed to expanding their Heart Care programme under the auspices of Advanced Medical Services who have carried out the screenings for National League players.

At a Press Conference at the FAI’s Headquarters at Abbotstown on Monday, details were also announced for a programme to introduce basic life support training nationwide for grassroots volunteers in 2020 with the first training courses conducted by Heartsafety Solutions scheduled for February. This training is Irish Heart Foundation certified and will cover CPR and the use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED).

As part of the programme, Heartsafety Solutions will donate two defibrillators for a raffle open to all participants who attend for CPR/AED training next year. Clubs can also get the health of their defibrillator units checked at the course venues with discounts available for the purchase of new Automatic External Defibrillators.

Speaking at the media briefing, Mrs. Brown’s Boys creator Brendan O’Carroll and his wife Jenny said: “We at Mrs. Brown’s Boys have been delighted with the success of the Heart Care Programme in year one and we look forward to the expansion of this programme in 2020 and the introduction of Basic Life Support training in grassroots football.

“Everything about this programme is designed to save lives and to reduce the Sudden Cardiac Death figures and we are delighted with the progress to date. Our thanks go to all the medical staff who have made this possible and to Dr Alan Byrne and his team at the FAI for co-ordinating the programme.”

Welcoming the new additions to the Heart Care Programme for 2020, FAI Medical Director Dr Alan Byrne said: “With the support of Mrs. Brown’s Boys, we have been able to ensure that more children and adolescents continue to play football in a safer and healthier environment.

“As sport plays such a significant part in the lives of so many young people in this country, this Programme is a major benefit to the health of our nation and we thank Brendan, Jenny and everyone involved with Mrs. Brown’s Boys for their commitment and support of this Heart Care Programme.”

Heartsafety Solutions Managing Director David Greville said: “For every minute that CPR and Defibrillation is delayed following a sudden cardiac arrest, the chance of survival is reduced by 10%. Therefore, equipping clubs and coaches with the skills and equipment required will definitely save lives in the future.”

Advanced Medical Services CEO Ed Donovan remarked: “We are delighted with the uptake from both the players and clubs involved in this important screening programme to date. The support from the FAI and of course Brendan and Jenny O’Carroll’s generosity has allowed for this potentially lifesaving service to become available to so many young soccer players.”

Coaches can log on to register for the CPR training at www.hearts.ie/fai

First-half goals from Oliver O’Neill and Anselmo Garcia McNulty followed by second-half finishes from Sinclair Armstrong (pictured above) and Evan Ferguson was enough to see the young Boys in Green make it three wins out of three to ensure they head into the next stage of the qualifiers as group winners.

Colin O’Brien’s side came into this game high in confidence following their impressive 6-0 win against Andorra and their 3-1 victory over Montenegro at this venue last week.

And after controlling the opening exchanges, they finally took the lead in the 17th minute thanks to an excellent finish from Oliver O’Neill.

The Fulham forward secured Omotayo Adarmola’s pass on the left flank forced his way into the box before coolly slotting the ball into the bottom left corner at the near post.

The hosts remained dominant and they deservedly made it 2-0 shortly before the half time break when Wolfsburg defender Anselmo Garcia McNulty tapped home Ben McCormack’s low corner for his second goal in two games.

And they scored from another corner at the beginning of the second half as Sinclair Armstrong nodded McCormack’s superb delivery into the net from a few yards.

Israel, to their credit, refused to give up and they reduced the deficit when Ellay Yacob Shafiki directed his header from a corner just inside the far left post.

But the Irish restored their three-goal advantage just past the hour as Bohemians’ Evan Ferguson shrugged off his marker before rolling the ball past the keeper.

Israel’s Dor David Turgeman completed the scoring as he drilled the ball into the far bottom-right corner but it wasn’t enough for them join Ireland in the Elite round as Montenegro’s dramatic last-minute strike against Andorra in Cobh saw them secure second place in Group three.

The draw for the Elite Round will take place on December 3 when 32 teams will be drawn into eight groups of four with the group winners and the seven best runners joining host nation Estonia in the Finals next summer.

Republic of Ireland: Daniel Rose; Gavin Liam O’Brien, Oisin Hand, Anselmo Garcia McNulty, Omtayo Adaramola; Oran Crowe, Ben McCormack (Andrew Moran 76), Colin Conroy (Mohammed Olabosun Lawal 76); Sinclair Armstrong (Robert Mahon 67), Evan Ferguson (Calum Kavanagh 83), Oliver O’Neill (Kailin Barlow 83).

Israel: Dvir Nir; Ellay Yacob Shafiki, Ismail Soboh, Ariel Belson; Bar Nuhi, Ilay Madmoun, Dor David Turgeman, Anar Ushmandi, Romi Cohen (Amit Kodman 74); Ebrahem Bader (Omer Senior 91), Ron Arie (Osher Eliyahu 52).

Referee: Mario Zebec (Croatia).

Ireland are set to face Sweden at Tallaght Stadium on Tuesday, November 19, with kick-off at 8pm as Stephen Kenny's side continue their bid to be the first U-21 team to qualify for a finals tournament.

The 17-year old Bazunu is set to start for Ireland in the absence of Caoimhin Kelleher having made his U-21 debut in the 1-0 win over Armenia.

Bazunu came through the youth ranks at Shamrock Rovers before breaking into the first-team at the age of 16 for the club he has always supported. His form helped him earn a move to Manchester City this year and he is looking forward to playing at Tallaght Stadium once again.

"Shamrock Rovers is my club. I joined the club at the age of five, it was my club and it is the club I'll always supported," said Bazunu.

"To play for the club was a dream come true really, especially at such a young age. I played back at Tallaght Stadium in the U-17 European Championships and it was fantastic as it brought all of the memories back.

"To be playing for the U-21s in Tallaght will be fantastic and I've got a lot of family and friends coming along to support. It's a huge night for us so hopefully we can get the result."

Ireland go into the game top of Group One having already claimed a 3-1 victory in Sweden in September.

With another big crowd expected at Tallaght Stadium, Bazunu says the team are full of belief that they can get another crucial victory in their bid to qualify.

"The win in Armenia was huge for us. We had a lot of changes coming into the game but the way we played was fantastic and really important win," continued Bazunu.

"I didn't have much to do during the game in Armenia which shows you how well we defended and how much we dominated the match.

"We need to bring that form into the Sweden match. We're fully aware that it will be a tough match but we're full of confidence, we've got plenty of talent in the squad."

TEAM NEWS: Stephen Kenny has confirmed he has a fully fit squad to chose from as Jayson Molumby and Conor Masterson both trained with the squad today.

Ireland knew a win against Denmark would secure an automatic spot in the tournament next summer but despite a positive performance and a late goal from Matt Doherty, Martin Braithwaite’s finish was enough to ensure the spoils were shared.

Following an uneventful opening to the game, the Danes suffered a couple of significant blows as both Thomas Delaney and Andreas Cornelius was forced to withdraw with injuries.

The Republic grew into the match and they finished the first half strongly but they just couldn’t edge in front before the break.

David McGoldrick caused the opposition’s defence numerous problems and after 34 minutes his over-hit pass sent Conor Hourihane through on goal but the Aston Villa man side-footed his effort straight at Kasper Schmeichel.

McGoldrick created an opportunity for Alan Browne moments later but the Cork native could only drive his half volley from distance narrowly wide of the far left post.

Mick McCarthy was forced to make a switch at the interval with John Egan being replaced by Ciaran Clark but the Boys in Green continued to play on the front foot.

Conor Hourihane again went close to breaking the deadlock at the beginning of the second half but following a clever short corner his cross was parried away by Schmeichel under severe pressure from the Irish attackers.

Ciaran Clark headed off target from a corner on the hour shortly before McGoldrick fired over on the turn as the home side pressed for the lead.

But as they began to pile players forward they left themselves open at the back and Denmark took advantage with 17 minutes remaining as they scored against the run of play.

Henrik Dalsgaard’s cross from the right-wing picked out the run of Martin Braithwaite and on the stretch, he managed to stab the ball past Randolph from close range.

The Irish battled until the end and they got an equaliser in the closing stages with Matt Doherty heading Enda Stevens’ cross home at the back post but it wasn’t to be as the visitors held on to the point that sees them finish second with Ireland third in Group D.

The draw for the play-offs will now take place on Friday.

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND: Darren Randolph; Matt Doherty, Shane Duffy, John Egan (Ciaran Clark ht), Enda Stevens; Conor Hourihane (Callum Robinson 68), Glenn Whelan (Sean Maguire 81); Alan Browne, Jeff Hendrick, James McClean; David McGoldrick.

DENMARK: Kasper Schmeichel, Simon Kjaer, Thomas Delaney (Pierre Emile Hojbjerg 13), Christian Eriksen, Martin Braithwaite, Mathias Jorgensen, Henrik Dalsgaard, Jens Stryger Larsen, Lasse Schone (Andreas Christensen 83), Yussuf Poulsen, Andreas Cornelius (Kasper Dolberg 33).

Referee: Felix Brych (Germany).

Maynooth University set the ball rolling in the morning kick off, hitting seven without reply against last season’s winners University of Limerick . Leon Kennedy hit a brace and with Dylan Pierce, Eoin O’Neill, Success Edogun, Callum Worfield and Lukas Maher all getting on the score sheet Maynooth coasted into the semi finals. It was a disappointing defence of their title from UL but Maynooth University will be full of confidence going into tomorrow’s semi-final.

Ace marksman Colm Whelan marked his debut for UCD by grabbing five goals in their 6-0 demolition of DCU. The Belfield outfit proved much too strong for their Dublin rivals and centre back Tomas O’Connor had them in front early on. Whelan then got into his stride and the goals kept coming from this prolific striker with a hat trick netted by half time and Whelan added to second half goals to ease UCD into the semi-finals.

The home side Queen’s University also progressed to the semi finals claiming a 6-2 victory over Trinity College Dublin with the help of two late own goals by unfortunate Trinity defenders. Ben Collins, Mark Farrell, Cian McGarvey and Padraig Slane were the Queens scorers with Jem Campion and Chris McFadden replying for the Dublin side.

It was a much tighter affair when UCC met NUI Galway with the westerners finally coming out on top in a penalty shoot out. UCC looked comfortable at the break holding a 3-0 lead after Rory Doyle bagged two either side of a fine Charlie Whalley strike. But Galway responded in style in the second half and goals from Rodrigo Serralo and Joe Thompson had back in contention. Doyle struck again to complete his hat trick and stretch the UCC lead to 4-2. That wasn’t the end of the scoring as late goals from Aidan O’Halloran and a dramatic last minute equaliser from NUI Galway goalkeeper Michael Garrity had the sides level at the finish. It was straight to penalties and Galway proved the more accurate coming out on top 4-2.

Today’s (Tuesday) semi finals pits Queen’s University against Maynooth University and UCD will face NUI Galway both at 2:00pm.

RESULTS

MONDAY NOVEMBER 18
Rustlers IUFU Harding Cup: Quarter Finals
Maynooth University 7 (Leon Kennedy 2, Dylan Pierce, Eoin O’Neill, Success Edogun, Callum Worfield, Lukas Maher) University of Limerick 0
UCC 4 (Rory Doyle 3, Charlie Whalley) NUI Galway 4 (Rodrigo Serralo, Joe Thompson, Aidan O’Halloran, Michael Garrity)
DCU 0 UCD 6 (Colm Whelan 5, Tomas O’Connor)
Trinity College Dublin 2 (Jem Campion, Chris McFadden) Queens University Belfast 6 (Ben Collins, Mark Farrell, Cian McGarvey, Padraig Slane, OG 2)

FIXTURES (All games at Queens University Dub Sports Grounds Belfast)
TUESDAY NOVEMBER 19 
Rustlers IUFU Harding Cup: Semi Finals
NUI Galway v UCD (14:00)
Queens University Belfast v Maynooth University (14:00)

Rustlers IUFU Spillane Cup: Semi Finals

UCC v DCU (11:00)

Trinity College Dublin v University of Limerick (11:00)

WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 20
Rustlers IUFU Harding Cup: Final
Winner - NUI Galway/UCD v Winner - Queens University Belfast/Maynooth University (13:30)

IUFU Rustlers Spillane Cup: Final
Winner – UCC/DCU v Winner - Trinity College Dublin/University of Limerick (11:00)

Prior to the Three International Friendly between the Republic of Ireland and New Zealand, eighteen players were honoured for their participation with the team in the 2018/2019 campaign. FAI President Donal Conway and High-Performance Director Ruud Dokter presented the cap to each player. The year's programme included a resounding victory against the Irish Defence Forces in Athlone Town Stadium and a narrow 1-0 defeat to France in Bordeaux.

It is the third campaign in a row that the team has been awarded international caps following an amalgamation of representative sides from the Colleges FAI (CFAI) and Irish Universities (IUFU) in 2015. The partnership follows the success of the Colleges and Universities Football League where the players are selected from to represent their country.

Eight Colleges and Universities had representation in the team led by Head Coach Greg Yelverton. Thirteen of the team would also represent Team Ireland at the 2019 Summer Universiade where they would finish 8th following games against South Korea, Uruguay, Russia, Ukraine and France.

It was a night to remember for Third Level Football both on and off the pitch as Sean Maguire, who spent some time studying in IT Carlow, netted his first senior international goal in the 3-1 victory against the All-Whites.

Speaking at the presentation, FAI National Coordinator for Schools and Third Level Football Mark Scanlon was delighted to give the students the recognition for representing their country in International Football.

“When we speak to young players about continuing their education, one of the factors we ask them to consider is the opportunity to receive international honours as they study. Already in the three years of this joint initiative by the CFAI and IUFU, some of our top young players have come through this pathway and progressed higher on the international pathway and into professional football. The list of players that have been capped at Colleges and Universities level has a growing stardom to it with the likes of Liam Scales, Sean McLoughlin, and Georgie Kelly all being previous recipients of caps. Their progress is a fantastic compliment of the development of Third Level Football and shines the way for future players to come”.

Colleges and Universities 2018/2019 Squad
Paul Martin, Darryl Walsh (Both Waterford IT), Aaron Dobbs, Jamie Hollywood, Joe Manley, Michael Scott (All TU Dublin), David Coffey, Pierce Phillips, David Hurley, Rob Slevin, Gordon Walker, Simon Falvey (All UCC), Alan O’Sullivan, Dean Kelly (Both IT Carlow), Ronan Young (Queen’s University Belfast), Sean McSweeney (University of Limerick), Tristan Noack Hofmann (Dublin City University) Cillian Duffy (Maynooth University)