The FAI ETB courses, formerly FAS Courses, have contributed to the development of many talented young Irish footballers over the years.

Amongst the Cork City and Dundalk players to have graduated from the programmes are Mark McNulty, Kevin O'Brien, John Kavanagh, Darren Dennehy, Liam Miller, Colin Healy, Mark O'Sullivan and Cian Coleman in the Rebel Army camp and Chris Shields, Sean Gannon, Daryl Horgan, John Mountney, Darren Meenan and Andy Boyle in the Lilywhites squad.

ETB  Co-Ordinator Harry McCue is delighted that so many of the FAI graduates will appear on the biggest stage in the country this Sunday"The ETB/FAI courses continue to produce players of a very high calibre. The amount of players from both sides playing from ETB courses past and present on Sunday counts at over 50% and is a signification reflection on the quality of player coming through," he said.

"This is huge compliment to the highly qualified coaching staff who work very closely in developing these players. The unique combination of football and education continues to develop dedicated, talented footballers who have high ambitions of becoming professional footballers both here or overseas and hopefully continue to do so into the future. I wish them all the very best of luck in the Final."

Paul Osam's side led through a first half goal by Aaron Bolger but conceded a second half penalty and were unfortunate not to force a winner.

Ireland came close to threatening an opener in the 16th minute saw a Scottish defender clear off the line after a corner.

Six minutes later Scottish keeper Jon McCracken made a decent save to deny Ireland striker Thomas Caffrey after he burst through on goal.

Three minutes before the break a fantastic run by Luke Nolan sees him beat two players before curling an effort just going wide of the far post.

Just on the half-time whistle Ireland scored after they countered following a Scots corner and Bolger found the net with a low driven effort.

Unfortunately for Osam's side they conceded a penalty just three minutes into the second half with Elliott Watt finding the net.

Connolly came close to restoring Ireland's lead in the 65th minute with a low strike that was well pushed away by keeper McCraken.

Three minutes into extra-time Jonathan Afolabi almost snatched a winner when he drilled narrowly wide with the goal at his mercy.

"We played quite well in the first half and scored a very good goal. The performance was as good as it was in the first two games although Scotland were very good," said Osam.

"Scotland were very good in the second half and we tired but we did very well with two late chances. It may have been an injustice if we'd stolen it but I think these things even themselves out and we may have deserved our luck.

"Our goal came from an excellent break with Lee O'Connor, Jordan Doherty and Luke Nolan linking to set up Aaron Bolger who came forward from right back. He took a touch and scored a lovely goal.

"We showed great character when the elements were poor and we had to dig in and frustrated them.

"They'll have learned a lot from playing games and the limited time we have with them in terms of roles and responsibilities. That takes time and we don't have the time to go through everything with them. We tried to give them an understanding of the system and the Emerging Talent Programme has been a huge help as they've come through that process.

"We'll know sit down and look at the rest of the season. The UEFA Development Tournament is in Hungary in May and between now and then we'll look to get them together as much as we can within the budgetary confinements."

REUBLIC OF IRELAND: Brian Maher, Aaron Bolger, Cian Lee, Marcus Rowley, Kevin Healy, Aaron McColgan, Luke Nolan, Thomas Caffrey, Aaron Connolly, Jordan Doherty, Lee O'Connor.  Subs: James Jennings for McColgan 40 mins, Cian Hughes for Rowley 40, Alex Kelly for Doherty 66, Jonathan Afolabi for Caffrey 75 , Luke O'Brien for Healy 80.

Tickets for FAI Cup Finals will be available for purchase by members of the public from 10am on Sunday and the arrangements are as follows:

From 10am at Turnstile Q which is located in the South East corner of the Aviva Stadium

From 11am at the Ticketmaster Outlet in the Ballsbridge Hotel and also from the Ticketmaster Van which will be located at the junction of Northumberland Road and Lansdowne Road

Tickets are priced at €10 for adults, €5 for children (U16) and €30 for Premium Level tickets.

Doolin's side will face Slovenia, Latvia and Scotland with the top two sides from each progress alongside the third-placed team with the best record against the top pair in their group.

Injuries cost Doolin the services of Tom Cadman (dislocated elbow) and Shane McLaughlin and the Irish boss anticipates a real challenge despite the fact that Ireland has home advantage. Their first game is against Slovenia in Galway on Friday, November 13.

"It's going to be tough for us. We've played Italy and Ukraine in some friendly games and while the games were close enough we were only at the level we want them to be in a half each time. We need to improve to get to the level we are looking for," said Doolin.

"Slovenia is the opener and it is all we are focusing on at the moment. They are quite a good side and they have several strong players so it's a tough start for us. We will get the players together this week to prepare for that game first and foremost.

"What we've seen in the games we've played this season is that perhaps unlike in other years we do not have an abundance of attacking options. We've looked at different players in wide areas and used different shapes to see if we can get the best out of the players.

"Frankie Mulhern has done well for us and Khius Metz has come in now and we're hoping that they can help get us the goals that we'll need to get the results. It's a tough group overall as Scotland are a strong unit at this age group while Latvia are always awkward opponents."

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND U19 SQUAD:

Caoimhin Kelleher (Liverpool FC)

James Talbot (Sunderland AFC)

Dan Casey (Sunderland AFC)

Ethan Boyle (Waterford United FC)

Danny Kane (Huddersfield Town FC)

Stephen Best (Bohemians FC)

Shane Elworthy (Fulham FC)

Olamide Shodipo (Queens Park Rangers FC)

Anto Breslin (Wolverhampton Wanderers FC)

Connor Ronan (Wolverhampton Wanderers FC)

Graham Kelly (Sheffield United FC)

Ryan Sweeney (AFC Wimbledon)

Dylan Watts (UCD AFC)

George Poynton (Dundalk FC)

Colm Deasy (St Patrick's Athletic FC)

Jason McClelland (UCD AFC)

Khius Metz (Burnley FC)

Frankie Mulhern (Leeds United FC)

FIXTURES

Friday, November 13

Scotland v Latvia, Athlone Town Stadium (2.30pm)

Republic of Ireland v Slovenia, Eamon Deacy Park, Galway (4.00pm)

Sunday, November 15

Slovenia v Scotland, Markets Field, Limerick (2.30pm)

Republic of Ireland v Latvia, Eamon Deacy Park, Galway (7.30pm)

Wednesday, November 18

Scotland v Republic of Ireland, Markets Field, Limerick (3.30pm)

Latvia v Slovenia, Eamon Deacy Park, Galway (3.30pm)

Shelbourne Ladies FC will take on Wexford Youths WFC in the first game as women's football takes centre stage before Cork City come up against Dundalk in an intriguing clash that will cap off what promises to be another memorable day for Irish football supporters.

Both games will be broadcast live on RTE2 and a big crowd is expected at Aviva Stadium to witness history as neither Shelbourne nor Wexford have lifted the Continental FAI Women's Cup before while Dundalk are aiming to win the Irish Daily Mail FAI Cup for the 10th time and Cork City are eyeing up a third triumph.

This will be Cork's first appearance in a final since winning the prestigious competition in 2007 on a night that saw referee David McKeon take charge. He will again be handling the showpiece event that Dundalk hope leads to them being crowned double champions following their recent SSE Airtricity League Premier Division title win.

In the Continental FAI Women's Cup Final, it is all new as Shelbourne only joined the Continental Tyres Women's National League this season following a merger with Raheny United - last year's winners of the Cup - and Wexford, who are the League champions, have yet to play at the Aviva Stadium.

There will be no shortage of quality on show with possibly more than 10 Republic of Ireland Women's Senior internationals involved in the first game, while the likes of Liam Miller, Colin Healy, Alan Bennett, Richie Towell, Daryl Horgan, and Stephen O'Donnell could feature in the men's game.

Tickets are still available for the two games - priced €10 for adults and €5 for kids (U16) - through Ticketmaster.ie

Sunday, November 8 - Aviva Stadium
Shelbourne Ladies FC v Wexford Youths WFC, Continental FAI Women's Cup Final, KO 12:20pm
Cork City v Dundalk, Irish Daily Mail FAI Cup Final, KO 15:30

Click on the links below to check out promotional videos for each final:

Continental FAI Women's Cup Final
Irish Daily Mail FAI Cup Final

Shelbourne Ladies 2-2 Wexford Youths Women

(Wexford Youths women win 4-2 on penalties)

A game of great excitement saw Wexford Youths equalise five minutes into stoppage time before taking an extra-time lead before Shelbourne sending the game to penalties with the final kick of the game.

Shels had the first real opening on 26 minutes, Grace Murray found space down the right her pull back found Jamie Finn, pulling her shot just wide.

Wexford’s first chance of the game came after 29 minutes, Claire O’Riordan unable to steer Ciara Rossiter's corner the right side of the post.

Shels keeper Niamh Reid Burke produced a world class save on 38 minutes to deny Ciara Rossiter’s attempted chip from the edge of the box.

O’Riordan raced through on goal minutes later with a great chance but she pulled her shot wide of the target after latching onto a long ball and racing behind the Shels defence.

Siobhan Killeen - winning goal scorer in the 2014 final - opened the scoring with a sublime finish on 55 minutes.

Killeen’s close control and trickery avoided Nicola Sinnott in the box, Killeen then whipping the ball into the top left hand corner of Tamara Furlong’s net.

Carol Breen spurned Youths best chance of the game after 73 minutes, Edel Kennedy unlocking the Shels defence, Breen failing to the hit the target.

Kylie Murphy’s bullet header rattled the Shelbourne cross bar with nine minutes remaining, Murphy beating Shels keeper Niamh Reid Burke to Emma Hansberry’s free kick.

O’Riordan was next to go close for Youths heading over Maria Delahunty’s pin point right wing cross.

Sarah Rowe immediately had a chance to seal it for Shels, muscling Ruth Fahy off the ball, bur firing her shot to close to replacement keeper Naimh Furlong.

Furlong kept Noelle Murray’s long range effort out moments into the first minute of stoppage time with Furlong denying Murray’s volley three minutes later.

High drama was left to the final minute of stoppage time, Reid-Burke kept out Emma Hansberry’s free kick with Ciara Rossiter scrambling the ball home.

Maria Delahunty’s excellent volley appeared to win the cup for Wexford with four minutes remaining, Shels having cleared Emma Hansberry's corner, Delahunty volleying home.

Shels equalised in with the final kick of extra time, Jamie Finn’s shot coming off the cross bar, Rebecca Creagh attempt falling to Dearbhaile Beirne.

Wexford converted all four of their penalities through Ruth Fahy, Rianna Jarrett, Claire O’Riordan and Kylie Murphy.

Noelle Murray and Shauna Newman both missed for Shels seeing Youths land the cup for the first time.

SHELBOURNE LADIES: Reid-Burke, Keenan, Slattery, Walsh, Newman, Killeen (Beirne 85), Graham (Dwyer 67), Finn, G.Murray (Rowe 59), Creagh, N.Murray

Subs Not Used: McQuillan, Taylor, Brierley, Donnelly

WEXFORD YOUTHS WOMEN: Kelly (Furlong 33), Sinnott, Fahy, Rossiter, Douglas (Delahunty 61), Murphy, Kennedy, Hansberry, Frawley (Jarrett 76), O’Riordan, Breen

Subs Not Used: Conlon, Gleeson, Cassin, Hutchinson,

REFEREE: Paula Brady

Half-time of the 2014 Ford Cup Final saw the culmination of this year’s Irish Football National Draw with the winners drawn for all regional and national prizes, including four brand new Ford Fiesta cars. 

The second annual draw has been a huge success and has again raised close to €1 million for clubs and leagues across the country through sales of 110,000 tickets.

Money raised through the draw will bring in valuable funds to support the great work clubs are doing in communities nationwide.

Local club draws all took place over the last few weeks leaving the main national and regional draws to conclude yesterday. 

The four winners of the Ford Fiesta Cars are:

There were many other prizes on offer too, please see below the full list of winners, broken down by region.   

Winners will be contacted over the coming days to arrange delivery of their prizes. 

National Draw

MUNSTER Regional Draw

LEINSTERRegional Draw

DUBLIN Regional Draw

CONNACHT/ULSTERRegional Draw

Cork City 0-1 Dundalk (After extra-time)

Midfielder Towell struck for the only goal of an intriguing final between the country's top two sides two minutes into the second period of extra-time.

Astonishingly, it was the 24-year-old’s 29th goal in all competitions this year to give Stephen Kenny’s all-conquering Lilywhites the club's 10th FAI Cup victory and a third double in their history.

“I don’t really trust my left foot much,” quipped a delighted Towell of his match-winning goal.

“I said to Horgs (Daryl Horgan) coming out for extra-time ‘just give me one chance’. 

“He was getting into great spaces. So, I just wanted one opportunity and I was confident I was going to put it away.

“The little man put it on my foot, as he usually does, and I was lucky enough to hit the back of the net.”

Both managers had big selection calls to make before kick-off.

Cork boss John Caulfield opted for Alan Bennett in central defence ahead of Dan Murray while Kevin O’Connor started in central midfield as Colin Healy only made the bench.

Likewise, Dundalk manager Kenny had decisions to make as skipper Stephen O’Donnell wasn’t fit to start. That meant Chris Shields, as expected, anchored their midfield with Towell while Darren Meenan got the nod ahead of John Mountney on the right flank.

With the rain having subsided, the players still had to contend with a swirling wind as the 95th cup final kicked off.

Cork had a promising attack inside the opening minute, though Mark O’Sullivan’s header from a Billy Dennehy cross scarcely troubled Gary Rogers in the Dundalk goal.

Dundalk responded three minutes later with an incisive move setting up Ronan Finn who turned smartly on the edge of the area to curl a shot not far wide of Mark McNulty’s left-hand post.

That sparked a sustained spell of Dundalk possession, as Cork struggled initially to get a foothold in the game.

However, that ended on 16 minutes when Dennehy again found space on the right to pick out Karl Sheppard whose shot on the turn was blocked by the vigilant Brian Gartland.

Dennehy instigated the danger from Cork again four minutes later, forcing Rogers into flapping away his corner.

A third corner from Cork, this time whipped over by skipper John Dunleavy from the opposite side, was then headed wide by Bennett on 23 minutes.

Having thrown the ball straight to a green shirt earlier, Rogers’ distribution was again poor as a clearance from way outside his area on the right was picked up by Garry Buckley. The City midfielder’s attempted shot was well off target, though, as a grateful Dundalk 'keeper scampered frantically back to his line.

Cork were now well in what was developing into an absorbing tussle.

Despite that, the first save of note in the game didn’t come until the 40th minute when McNulty dived to his left to pluck David McMillan's shot from the air.

Dundalk were then forced into a change two minutes before the interval when Sean Gannon had to limp off, O’Donnell coming into central midfield as Shields dropped to right-back.

Kenny's side injected some much needed purpose to their game from the resumption with McMillan's volley bringing a tip-over save from McNulty after Dane Massey went on the overlap to set him up to minutes in.

A minute later, McMillan was guilty of a heavy touch when played in on goal as McNulty raced from his line to gather.

Towell, relatively quiet up till then, brought a save from the Cork keeper on 63 minutes after working a one-two with Finn on the edge of the area.

A fine run from midfield by Horgan then came to nothing for Dundalk as the winger’s cross was gathered by McNulty.

Though better fare than the first 45 minutes had been, the second half also failed to produce a goal as the game went to extra-time.

Two minutes into that, Finn did well to burst in on goal from the left only to see his weak shot comfortably saved.

But it was the second minute of the second half of extra-time that brought the game’s crucial moment.

A terrific surging run down the inside-left channel from Horgan resulted in his cross picking out Towell in the area.

Controlling the low delivery with his right foot, Towell then side-footed home from ten yards with his left to send the massed Dundalk fans at the Havelock Square end goal delirious.

“It’s something you probably dream of,” added Towell.

“If somebody had told me that this was going to happen at the start of the year, I’d have bitten their hand off - score the winner in the cup final.

“It’s just a magical, magical night. And a magical way to end an unbelievable season.”

CORK CITY: McNulty; Dunleavy, Bennett, D. Dennehy, Gaynor; Miller (Healy, 59), O’Connor; B. Dennehy, Buckley, Sheppard (Murray, 101); O’Sullivan (Morrissey, 79).

DUNDALK: Rogers; Gannon (O‘Donnell, 43), Gartland, Boyle, Massey; Shields, Towell; Meenan (Mountney, 77), Finn, Horgan; McMillan (Kilduff, 71).

Referee: Dave McKeon (Dublin).

Top Performer
Daryl Murphy (Ipswich Town)
After an indifferent start to the season, Murphy rediscovered his form in front of goal by firing in a hat-trick for the Tractor Boys. The Waterford native had been doing all of the right things, he just needed a bit of luck and now that has arrived he should kick on for the remainder of the campaign.

Watch Out For
Jake Mulraney (Dag & Red)
This talented Dubliner was originally snapped up by Nottingham Forest but a move to Queens Park Rangers has opened up new doors, such as a loan move to Dagenham & Redbridge. The tricky attacker has the potential to make a difference in League Two if he takes his chance.

Irish Manager Monitor
In the Championship, Chris Hughton’s Brighton & Hove Albion maintained their unbeaten start with a 2-1 victory over MK Dons, Mick McCarthy’s Ipswich Town won 5-2 away to Rotherham United, and Lee Carsley’s Brentford drew 1-1 with Blackburn Rovers.

John Sheridan’s Newport County drew 2-2 with Brackley Town in the FA Cup, while Joe Dunne – who is in caretaker charge – inspired Cambridge United to a 1-0 victory over Basingstoke Town.

Further Afield
In the Dutch Eredivisie, Jack Byrne played the full 90 minutes for Cambuur as they drew 2-2 with Groningen. Over in the Indian Super League, Darren O’Dea helped Mumbai City secure a 1-1 draw away to Delhi Dynamos.

In the Scottish Championship, Paul Heffernan was on target for Queen of the South, while Danny Rogers (Falkirk), Conor Pepper (Morton), Jon Daly (Raith Rovers), Rob Kiernan (Rangers), and Jim Goodwin (St Mirren) were also in action.

Women’s Focus
On Sunday, Clare Shine scored a hat-trick for Glasgow City as they overcame Glasgow City to secure the Scottish Women’s Cup and a domestic treble. Denise O’Sullivan also played in the game.

Weekend Stats

Premier League
11 appearances– Ciaran Clark (Aston Villa), Harry Arter (Bournemouth), Damien Delaney (Crystal Palace), Seamus Coleman, James McCarthy (Everton), Rob Elliot (Newcastle United), Robbie Brady, Wes Hoolahan (Norwich City), Jonathan Walters, Glenn Whelan (Stoke City), James McClean (West Bromwich Albion)
5 un-used substitutes– Darron Gibson (Everton), Stephen Ireland, Marc Wilson (Stoke City), Josh Cullen, Darren Randolph (West Ham United)
3 yellow cards– Harry Arter (Bournemouth), James McCarthy (Everton), Glenn Whelan (Stoke City)
1 clean sheet– Rob Elliot (Newcastle United)

Championship
21 appearances– Stephen Gleeson (Birmingham City), Shane Duffy (Blackburn Rovers), Alan McCormack (Brentford), Derrick Williams (Bristol City), Stephen Ward (Burnley), Joe Mason, Anthony Pilkington (Cardiff City), Stephen Henderson (Charlton Athletic), Cyrus Christie, Jeff Hendrick, Richard Keogh (Derby County), Joe Murphy (Huddersfield Town), David Meyler (Hull City), Jonathan Douglas, Daryl Murphy (Ipswich Town), Samir Carruthers, Darren Potter (MK Dons), Alan Browne, Eoin Doyle (Preston North End), Paul Green (Rotherham United), Keiren Westwood (Sheffield Wednesday)
3 goalscorers– Stephen Gleeson (Birmingham City), Jonathan Douglas, Daryl Murphy [3] (Ipswich Town)
4 un-used substitutes– Jack Bonham (Brentford), Simon Cox (Bristol City), Alex Pearce (Derby County), Matt Doherty (Wolves)
1 yellow card– Cyrus Christie (Debry County)

FA Cup
65 appearances– Seamus Conneely (Accrington Stanley), Sean McGinty (Aldershot Town), Josh O’Keefe (Altrincham), Conor Hourihane, Conor Wilkinson (Barnsley), Colin Doyle (Blackpool), Conor Clifford (Boreham Wood), Billy Clarke (Bradford City), Callum Reilly (Burton Albion), Barry Corr, Rory Gaffney (Cambridge United), Gary Dicker (Carlisle United), Shamir Fenelon, Rhys Murphy (Crawley Town), Jack Connors, Jake Mulraney (Dag & Red), Clinton Morrison (Exeter City), Jimmy Ryan (Fleetwood Town), John Egan, Bradley Garmston, Emmanuel Osadebe (Gillingham), Padraig Amond, James McKeown (Grimsby Town), Kieran Sadlier (FC Halifax), Jake Carroll (Hartlepool United), Alan Dunne (Leyton Orient), Alan Power (Lincoln City), Sean Long (Luton Town), Neill Byrne (Macclesfield Town), David Forde, Aiden O’Brien, Shaun Williams (Millwall), Jamie Devitt, Barry Roche (Morecambe), Mark Byrne (Newport County), Brendan Moloney, John-Joe O’Toole (Northampton Town), Alan Sheehan (Notts County), Mark Yeates (Oldham Athletic), Pat Hoban, Callum O’Dowda (Oxford United), Chris Forrester (Peterborough United), Graham Carey, Carl McHugh (Plymouth Argyle), Michael Doyle, Brian Murphy, Enda Stevens (Portsmouth), Sam Foley (Port Vale), Donal McDermott (Rochdale), Stephen O’Halloran (Salford City), Paddy Madden (Scunthorpe United), Conor Sammon (Sheffield United), James Collins, Liam McAlinden (Shrewsbury Town), Cian Bolger, Stephen McLaughlin, Dave Mooney, Glen Rea, Michael Timlin (Southend United), Harry Crawford (St Albans), Anton Rodgers (Swindon Town), Anthony Forde (Walsall), Scott Davies (Wealdstone), Chris McCann (Wigan Athletic), Michael Collins, Eddie Nolan (York City)
7 goalscorers– Clinton Morrison (Exeter City), Padraig Amond [2] (Grimsby Town), Aiden O’Brien (Millwall), Paddy Madden [2] (Scunthorpe United), Conor Sammon (Sheffield United), James Collins (Shrewsbury Town), Anthony Forde (Walsall)
6 un-used substitutes– Paddy Kenny (Bury), Mark O’Brien (Luton Town), Ritchie Branagan (Macclesfield Town), Liam Lawrence (Shrewsbury Town), Liam Kinsella (Walsall), Ryan Sweeney (AFC Wimbledon)
6 yellow cards– Jack Connors (Dag & Red), Graham Carey, Carl McHugh (Plymouth Argyle), Stephen O’Halloran (Salford City), Michael Timlin (Southend United), Chris McCann (Wigan Athletic)
1 red card– Alan Power (Lincoln City)
1 clean sheet– Barry Roche (Morecambe)

Scottish Premiership
6 appearances– Willo Flood, Jonny Hayes, Adam Rooney (Aberdeen), Sean Dillon (Dundee United), Graham Cummins, Joe Shaughnessy (St Johnstone)
2 goalscorers– Jonny Hayes, Adam Rooney (Aberdeen)

Compiled by GARETH MAHER

FIXTURES

Friday, November 13

Scotland v Latvia, Athlone Town Stadium (2.30pm)

Republic of Ireland v Slovenia, Eamon Deacy Park, Galway (4.00pm)

Sunday, November 15

Slovenia v Scotland, Markets Field, Limerick (2.30pm)

Republic of Ireland v Latvia, Eamon Deacy Park, Galway (7.30pm)

Wednesday, November 18

Scotland v Republic of Ireland, Markets Field, Limerick (3.30pm)

Latvia v Slovenia, Eamon Deacy Park, Galway (3.30pm)

Henderson has been drafted into the squad as a replacement for Keiren Westwood who has returned to Sheffield Wednesday after a pre-existing ankle injury flared up today in training at the FAI National Training Centre.

Brentford’s Alan Judge, who stayed behind at Brentford to continue his rehabilitation from a hamstring injury, has been cleared to join up with the squad after training for the past few days with his club and is due to arrive at the team’s Dublin base this evening.

Shane Long will not be involved in Friday’s first leg as he will remain at Southampton for further treatment on his ankle injury but he has not been ruled out of next Monday’s second leg at the Aviva Stadium.

The sides will meet at Rock Celtic FC on Tuesday, November 24 (7.00pm) and Thursday, November 26 (12.00pm).

"These are first two officials fixtures after the players were identified following the Kennedy Cup then we have conducted a three day training camp and held further assessments," said O'Brien.

"These games will give some indication where the players are at in relation to what is required at international level and it'll be the highest standard they'll have played so far in their careers.

"We played Poland last year and they produce good technical sides so it'll be a good opportunity for them to see what this level is about.

"You can see that these players already have some ideas on how to build from the back and the work do they have done at the centres of excellence will stand to them.

"It's our job to develop them a little bit more in regards to how we want them to play in attacking and defending so it will be very hard to judge where they're at until they have the first couple of games under their belts. We're looking forward to working with them."

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND U15 SQUAD:

Ciaran Brennan (East End United)

Sean Brennan (Belvedere)

Harry Clarke (Cherry Orchard)

Kian Clarke (St Kevin's Boys)

Barry Coffey (Nenagh AFC)

Nathan Collins (Cherry Orchard)

Adam Idah (College Corinthians)

Jason Knight (Cabinteely)

Kameron Ledwidge (St Kevin's Boys)

Sean Mahon Brennan (Cherry Orchard)

Oisin McEntee (Malahide United)

Jamin Nwanze (St Kevin's Boys)

Adam O'Reilly (Ringmahon Rangers)

Kevin O'Reilly (Cherry Orchard)

Ray O'Sullivan (St Kevin's Boys)

Caelin Rooney Abreu (Clashmore Ramblers)

Callum Thompson (St Joseph's Boy's)

Marc Walsh (Gweedore  Celtic)

FIXTURES

Tuesday, November 24

U15 International

Republic of Ireland v Poland, Rock Celtic FC, Co Louth (7.00pm)

Thursday, November 26

U15 International

Republic of Ireland v Poland, Rock Celtic FC, Co Louth (12.00pm)

Noel King's side are in a four-way split for top spot in Group 2 with Italy, Serbia and Slovenia so a victory against the Lithuanians would ensure the Irish went into 2016 continuing to share the lead.

The nine group winners qualify automatically. The four runners-up with the best record against the nations first, third, fourth and fifth in their sections advance to the play-offs.

Ireland got off to 100 per cent winning start with victories over Andorra twice and then Lithuania in Waterford last month before suffering an unfortunate 1-0 loss to Italy in Vicenza. It was a game which saw the Irish create more chances than their hosts but ultimately fail to secure a memorable result.

"We played well in Italy. We had some smashing attacking patches, some excellent defending, created plenty of chances but that game is gone. We didn't get anything out of that particular match. Italy away is always tough and we look back and try to learn from it," said King.

"We're now looking at Lithuania. We're trying to win this game and it would be great to get the three points obviously and then you are looking to go into the New Year still joint-top of the group. We're confident that we can do that and that hopefully on the night everything works out as we've planned."

King has the height of respect for the Lithuanians having watched them before the sides met in October.

"Lithuania came to Waterford last month and we know we can beat them. They know our strengths and we know theirs. It's a question of taking things on a step further and making sure we deliver on the night," he said.

"I think Lithuania have big strong players, physical but try to play and they haven’t had much luck so far. They are a threat from set-pieces. They're persistent, they're at home, they know the pitch and being the home side has certain advantages. It's not going to be easy but we have to go out and do the job."

The Irish boss feels that his side has shown that they can create chances already in this campaign and wants that to be translated into more goals.

"We've been creative throughout the campaign and obviously we'd like to score more of those chances. We’ve played very well and this group of players is gaining confidence in every game and gaining cohesion," he added.

"The boys are really dying to get the victory, beat Lithuania and stay top of the group. I can sense the mood amongst them. There's a confidence and awareness of the reality. I'm looking forward to the game myself.

"I've never experienced a campaign like this where so few players have picked up knocks. We've used maybe 15 or 16 players in total across the four games which is a remarkable situation. I think it shows that the players really want to play for their country and do something special and succeed. That can lead to a performance I believe."

FIXTURES

Friday, November 13

UEFA U21 Championships Qualifying Round Group 2

Lithuania v Republic of Ireland, LFF stadionas, Vilnius (4.30pm Irish)

Serbia v Italy, Karadjordje, Novi Sad (SRB)(5.30pm Irish)

Paul Doolin's side know that a solid start in Group 1 could have a massive impact on whether they progress to the Elite Phase. The top two sides from each progress alongside the third-placed team with the best record against the top pair in their group.

Ireland lost Burnley striker Khius Metz to an ankle injury this week so Dundalk's Michael O'Connor has been added to the squad.

"It's going to be a tough game for us. Slovenia are a decent team. They've had 11 friendlies and look like they've been together longer than us. They have strong players and pace out wide," said Doolin.

"For us we've got to try and do our thing right. Training has been very good, the players have taken on board what we've asked of them so we'll be going into it in the right frame of mind.

"We'll have to adapt to the conditions whatever happens. We're hoping to start well. You've two teams coming out of the group but the first game is vital. We've qualified for five campaigns in a row so it would be good to continue that run.

"We are a good team. Friendlies are one thing but the competitive games are where the serious stuff starts and we'll be looking to begin with a good performance and result."

Meanwhile, the other group game - Scotland v Latvia - which takes place tomorrow afternoon has been switched to Markets Field, Limerick (2.30pm).

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND U19 SQUAD:

Caoimhin Kelleher (Liverpool FC)

James Talbot (Sunderland AFC)

Dan Casey (Sunderland AFC)

Ethan Boyle (Waterford United FC)

Danny Kane (Huddersfield Town FC)

Robbie McCourt (West Bromwich Albion)

Stephen Best (Bohemians FC)

Shane Elworthy (Fulham FC)

Olamide Shodipo (Queens Park Rangers FC)

Connor Ronan (Wolverhampton Wanderers FC)

Graham Kelly (Sheffield United FC)

Ryan Sweeney (AFC Wimbledon)

Dylan Watts (UCD AFC)

George Poynton (Dundalk FC)

Colm Deasy (St Patrick's Athletic FC)

Jason McClelland (UCD AFC)

Michael O'Connor (Dundalk FC)

Frankie Mulhern (Leeds United FC)

FIXTURES

Friday, November 13

Scotland v Latvia, Markets Field, Limerick (2.30pm)

Republic of Ireland v Slovenia, Eamon Deacy Park, Galway (4.00pm)

Sunday, November 15

Slovenia v Scotland, Markets Field, Limerick (2.30pm)

Republic of Ireland v Latvia, Eamon Deacy Park, Galway (7.30pm)

Wednesday, November 18

Scotland v Republic of Ireland, Markets Field, Limerick (3.30pm)

Latvia v Slovenia, Eamon Deacy Park, Galway (3.30pm)

Slovenia scored from their only shot on target after 32 minutes by Mika Mario Rokavec and then held through intense pressure to record a famous victory which was celebrated with gusto at the end.  

“The first half was even but I thought we were outstanding in the second half, to play the way we did against the breeze and to create the chances we did,” said Ireland Head Coach Paul Doolin. “We are disappointed but if we can continue to perform like we did today we should get results. We are not out it but we will probably need to win the next two games starting with Latvia on Sunday.”

Doolin named a team that contained five players from SSE Airtricity League clubs and they started brightly, forcing four corners early on as they sought to take advantage of the strong wind. However, they didn’t trouble the Slovenian goalkeeper until the 21st minute when Frankie Mulhern headed against the crossbar following a free-kick by Graham Kelly that was put back into the danger area by Danny Kane. Kane injured himself in that incident and although he played on for another few minutes he was eventually replaced by Dan Casey.

Slovenia took the lead against the run of play after 32 minutes when Ireland lost possession in midfield and a quick counter-attack saw Andraz Mrkonja slip in Mika Mario Rokavec to drill a low shot to the far corner past James Talbot.

Ireland almost equalised three minute later when Mulhern met Shodipo’s cross but his effort was just past the post.

Doolin’s team talk at half-time certainly had the desired effect as Ireland dominated the second half but despite creating a number of chances they couldn’t find a way past the Slovenian goalkeeper Rok Vodisek. The keeper went full stretch after 61 minutes to keep out Mulhern’s header and eight minutes later did even better to turn a piledriver from Ethan Boyle around the post.

Substitute Connor Ronan weaved his way into the box with a mazy run and a slick one-two created a great chance but his shot screamed past the post and then Shodipo, under pressure from two defenders, blasted over from six yards.

Mulhern finally got the ball in the back of the net but the effort was disallowed for a foul on the keeper and deep into injury time Ireland saw a volley from Graham Kelly go the wrong side of the post while appeals for a penalty, when Shodipo was pushed jumping for the ball, were dismissed by the Finnish referee in the final seconds.

Scotland beat Latvia 2-0 in the group’s other game in Limerick so Ireland must beat Latvia on Sunday in Galway to keep alive their hopes of progressing to the Elite Phase for the sixth successive season.

Republic of Ireland: James Talbot; Colm Deasy, Danny Kane (Dan Casey 27), Ryan Sweeney, Stephen Best;  George Poynton, Ethan Boyle, Dylan Watts (Connor Ronan 71);  Olamide Shodipo, Frankie Mulhern, Graham Kelly.

Schedule

Friday, November 13

Scotland 2 Latvia 0

Republic of Ireland 0 Slovenia 1 

Sunday, November 15

Slovenia v Scotland, Markets Field, Limerick (2.30pm)

Republic of Ireland v Latvia, Eamon Deacy Park, Galway (7.30pm)

Wednesday, November 18

Scotland v Republic of Ireland, Markets Field, Limerick (3.30pm)

Latvia v Slovenia, Eamon Deacy Park, Galway (3.30pm)

Both Irish teams were handed tough draws in the Elite Round of the 2015-16 competitions with the Women’s U19s drawn to face Germany, Azerbijan and Poland although they will have home advantage as the mini-tournament will be played in Ireland from April 5 to 10, 2016. The Women’s U17s will be heading to France for their Elite Round with the Czech Republic and Hungary from March 19 to 24, 2016.  

“We are looking forward to playing Germany,” said Women’s U19 manager Dave Connell. “They are one of the superpowers and it is going to be very difficult but it is 11 v 11 and we will certainly be giving it our best effort. It’s a hard group because Poland have been strong in recent years and Azerbaijan won their group but we will prepare well and will hopefully get plenty of support at home. We have a lot of experience in our team so our girls won’t fear anybody.”

Women’s U17 manager Dave Bell, who is taking charge of his first European campaign having previously been Connell’s assistant is also looking forward to the challenge. “We have got one of the top seeds in France and it was type of draw we didn’t really want but the girls will relish the challenge and it is a great opportunity t test themselves against a top team. We played Czech Republic at U16 level last year and Hungary have a lot of talent so it will be tough but we will give it our best shot,” said Bell.

In the draws for the Qualifying Rounds of the 2016-17 competitions, the Women’s U17s will have home advantage in Group 10 against Iceland, Belarus and Faroe Island. This will be played between October 26 and 31. The Women’s U19s are in a group also containing Italy and Wales which will be played in Macedonia from October 18

Both Irish teams were handed tough draws in the Elite Round of the 2015-16 competitions with the Women’s U19s drawn to face Germany, Azerbijan and Poland although they will have home advantage as the mini-tournament will be played in Ireland from April 5 to 10, 2016. The Women’s U17s will be heading to France for their Elite Round with the Czech Republic and Hungary from March 19 to 24, 2016.  

“We are looking forward to playing Germany,” said Women’s U19 manager Dave Connell. “They are one of the superpowers and it is going to be very difficult but it is 11 v 11 and we will certainly be giving it our best effort. It’s a hard group because Poland have been strong in recent years and Azerbaijan won their group but we will prepare well and will hopefully get plenty of support at home. We have a lot of experience in our team so our girls won’t fear anybody.”

Women’s U17 manager Dave Bell, who is taking charge of his first European campaign having previously been Connell’s assistant is also looking forward to the challenge. “We have got one of the top seeds in France and it was type of draw we didn’t really want but the girls will relish the challenge and it is a great opportunity t test themselves against a top team. We played Czech Republic at U16 level last year and Hungary have a lot of talent so it will be tough but we will give it our best shot,” said Bell.

In the draws for the Qualifying Rounds of the 2016-17 competitions, the Women’s U17s will have home advantage in Group 10 against Iceland, Belarus and Faroe Island. This will be played between October 26 and 31. The Women’s U19s are in a group also containing Italy and Wales which will be played in Macedonia from October 18