Tom Mohan's side held the hosts to a draw in Pruszkow to leave both sides with an identical record in Group 7 and tied on second place behind group winners Serbia.

Under the rules of the competition that meant the sides went to a penalty shoot-out. Thomas O'Connor scored first for Ireland then Mikołaj Kwietniewski levelled for Poland before Tyreke Wilson missed unfortunately for the Irish.

Tymoteusz Puchacz put the Poles 2-1 up and this was levelled by Daniel McKenna before Adam Chrzanowski restored the host nation's lead. Canice Carroll brought it back to 3-3 on spot-kicks before Przemysław Macierzyński made it 4-3.

Tragically for the Irish side, Glen McAuley's penalty struck the woodwork and the Poles sealed the win 4-3 on penalties to progress to the finals in Azerbaijan next month.

Jayson Molumby had Ireland's first attempt on goal in the second minute and forced a save from Kamil Grabara and Irish keeper Mark Travers was forced into his first stop in the 13th minute to deny Marco Drawz.

In the 20th minute Daniel McKenna and Anthony Scully each had shots blocked as Ireland sought the decisive opening goal.

Drawz had another effort denied by Travers in the 35th minute as the stalemate continued.

In the 52nd minute another McKenna effort saw keeper Grabara forced into a save once more and the Polish keeper also denied Anthony Scully in the 65th minute.

Drawz and Kwietniewski had efforts blocked in injury-time which may have won it for Poland but ultimately the tie went to the drama of a shoot-out and disappointment for the Irish.

Mohan admitted to being disappointed for the players that they had dropped short of their ultimate goal.

"I am extremely proud of these players. Last year we were the ones celebrating qualification for the finals and this year we're the side left disappointed and that's part of football," he said.

"We showed real character to take the game to the host nation in these qualifiers and created numerous chances but unfortunately we just could not convert them in the end.

"Once again we were playing on a poor pitch that did us no favours and the players had to show real personality to perform on what was basically a sandpit and they did themselves proud.

"It is obviously a disappointment that they didn't get the reward their hard work has deserved over the campaign. Penalties is an unfortunate way to lose out but Poland were very good with their efforts and there's not much you can do about that.

"Overall I feel that this week the players have been a credit to everybody who has worked on their development since they started playing the game. For some people to be criticising Irish players and coaches the way they have with derogatory comments over the last few weeks has been nothing short of a disgrace.

"I couldn't be more proud of these players and, while we unfortunately won't be going to the finals this year, they can go home with their heads held high after another very good performance against a top European side."

POLAND: Kamil Grabara, Paweł Olszewski, Tymoteusz Puchacz, Adam Chrzanowski, Bartłomiej Gajda (Riccardo Grym 52), Tomasz Makowski, Marco Drawz, Bartosz Wiktoruk (Kacper Chodyna 41), Jakub Moder (Przemysław Macierzyński 58), Mikołaj Kwietniewski, Sebastian Szymański.

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND: Mark Travers, Canice Carroll, Tyreke Wilson, Declan Rice, Dara O'Shea, Lee O'Connor, Jayson Molumby, Anthony Scully (Glen McAuley 71), Daniel McKenna, Thomas O'Connor, Michael Murphy (Stephen Mallon 64).

RESULTS

Monday, March 28

UEFA U17 Championships Elite round Group 7

Republic of Ireland 0-2 Serbia, MZOS Znicz, Pruszkow (POL)

Poland 2-0  Montenegro, W.O.S.I.R Polonia, Warsaw (POL)

Wednesday, March 30

UEFA U17 Championships Elite round Group 7

Republic of Ireland 3-0 Montenegro, Stadion ROSRRiT Siedlce, Siedlce (POL)

Serbia 2-1 Poland, W.O.S.I.R Polonia, Warsaw (POL)

Saturday, April 2

UEFA U17 Championships Elite round Group 7

Poland 0-0 Republic of Ireland, MZOS Znicz, Pruszkow (POL) *Poland won 4-3 on pens

Montenegro 0-2 Serbia, Stadion ROSRRiT Siedlce, Siedlce (POL)

The game offers both sides an opportunity to test out players and tactics, while it will be Greg Yelverton's first game in charge of the Colleges & Universities team following his recent appointment.

For Yelverton this is a pretty important fixture as it acts as a warm-up for upcoming internationals against the Scottish Universities, Welsh Universities, and French Universities teams. So he is taking it quite seriously.

"This will be the first time that myself and the backroom team will get to spend with the players but we will make sure that we get our message across," said Yelverton.

"The Defence Forces will provide strong opposition. I expected it to be a feisty affair and the perfect start before facing into a series of internationals."

The game is also significant for the Defence Forces, who have assembled an impressive squad under Declan Sheridan and they will be hoping to make the most of it with some tough assignments ahead.

Irish Defence Forces squad
Aidan Friel (Wexford Youths), Keith Duffy (Ballina), Barry Tourish (Castlefin), Niall Scullion (St Peters), Aidan Brown (Willow Park), Gary Stephens (St Peters), Scott Delaney (St Peters), David Long (Conninstown), Noel McGee (St Peters), Sean Poutch (Tolka Rovers), Sean Gannon (Tolka Rovers), Stephen Whelan (St Kevin's), Steven Fisher (Woodview Celtic), Keith Arnold (Drogheda), Craig Shortt (Birr Town), Jodie Dillon (Portlaoise), Mark Horgan (Avondale), Michael O'Shea (Cobh Wanderers), Gerry Walsh (Carrick United), Craig Wall (Wexford Youths), Ricky Fox (Shamrock Rovers Wexford), Lee Grace (Wexford Youths), Shane Dempsey (Northend United), James Aust (Northend United), Chris Kenny (Wexford Youths), Ken Deegan (St Heart), Dave O'Riordain (Newbridge Town), Lee Delaney (Callan)

Irish Colleges & Universities squad
Goalkeepers: Eoghan Daly (Colaiste Stiofain Naofa), Joe Coll (Galway-Mayo)

Defenders: Aaron Brilly (DIT), Daniel McGuinness (IT Carlow), Gerard O'Boyle (IT Carlow), Sean O'Mahony (UCC), Sean McLoughlin (UCC), Jack Black (DCU), Kyle McNamara (Colaiste Stiofain Naofa)

Midfielders: Sean O'Callaghan (UCC), Robert Coghlan (Colaiste Stiofain Naofa), Sam Simpson (DIT), Joe Collins (University of Limerick), Danny O'Connell (Cork IT), Eoin McGreevey (Cork IT), Jason McClellan (UCD), Shane Daly-Butz (UCC)

Forwards: Dean Broaders (IT Carlow), Jason Lyons (Athlone IT), Ross Taheny (St Patrick's College Drumcondra)

Irish Defence Forces v Irish Colleges & Universities, Monday, April 4, Collins Barracks, Cork, KO 14:30

Top Performer
Conor Hourihane (Barnsley)
A trip to Wembley was made all the sweeter for this Cork-born midfielder as he helped The Tykes lift the Johnstone’s Paint Trophy for the first time in their history. Hourihane has been superb all season and fully deserved his winner’s medal.

Watch Out For
Ryan O’Reilly (Wrexham)
On loan from Stoke City, this athletic defender is keen to make his mark at senior level and Wrexham know how good he can be. There are still areas of his game to work on, but he possesses a lot of the tools required to forge a solid career.

Irish Manager Monitor
In the Championship, Mick McCarthy’s Ipswich Town drew 0-0 with Wolves, while Chris Hughton’s Brighton & Hove Albion drew 2-2 with Burnley, and Brian McDermott’s Reading won 1-0 away to Bolton Wanderers.

Further Afield
In the Eredivisie, Jack Byrne featured for Cambuur Leeuwarden as they drew 2-2 away to De Graafschap. In Cyprus, Cillian Sheridan played the full 90 minutes for Omonia Nicosia as they lost 1-0 to AEK Larnaca.

In the A-League, Andy Keogh opened the scoring for Perth Glory as they beat Melbourne City 3-2, while Roy O’Donovan played for Central Coast Mariners as they lost 4-1 to Western Sydney Wanderers.

In the NASL in the United States, Colin Falvey played for Indy Eleven in a scoreless draw with Tampa Bay Rowdies (former Ireland underage star Eamon Zayed also featured).

In the USL, Liam Miller started for Wilmington Hammerheads in a 0-0 draw with Richmond Kickers, James O’Connor’s Louisville City, who brought Niall McCabe on a substitute, lost 2-0 to New York Red Bulls II who had Ryan Meara in goal, Derek Foran helped Sacarmento Republic overcome Arizona United 1-0, Iarflaith Davoren played as Tulsa Roughnecks went down 2-1 to Swope Park Rangers, and Bobby Moseley made his debut for San Antonio FC in a 3-0 win over Seattle Sounders II.

Women’s Focus
In England’s FA Women’s Cup, Katie McCabe came off the bench to help Arsenal Ladies beat Notts County Ladies 4-3 on penalties, Niamh Fahey captained Chelsea Ladies to a 6-0 triumph over Aston Villa Ladies, Stephanie Roche helped Sunderland Ladies claim a 3-0 win against Reading Women, who saw Lois Roche and Hareitt Scott feature for them.

Weekend Stats

Premier League
9 appearances– Eunan O’Kane (Bournemouth), Damien Delaney (Crystal Palace), Seamus Coleman, James McCarthy (Everton), Robbie Brady, Wes Hoolahan (Norwich City), Stephen Ireland, Glenn Whelan (Stoke City), James McClean (West Bromwich Albion)
1 goalscorer– Damien Delaney (Crystal Palace)
3 un-used substitutes– Shay Given (Stoke City), John O’Shea (Sunderland), Darren Randolph (West Ham United)

Championship
25 appearances– Stephen Gleeson (Birmingham City), Shane Duffy, Darragh Lenihan (Blackburn Rovers), Alan Judge, Alan McCormack (Brentford), Alex Pearce (Bristol City), Stephen Ward (Burnley), Anthony Pilkington (Cardiff City), Richard Keogh (Derby County), Sean Scannell (Huddersfield Town), Jonathan Douglas, David McGoldrick (Ipswich Town), Darren Potter (MK Dons), Alan Browne, Greg Cunningham (Preston North End), Simon Cox, Paul McShane, Stephen Quinn (Reading), Leon Best, Lee Frecklington, Stephen Kelly (Rotherham United), Aiden McGeady, Keiren Westwood (Sheffield Wednesday), Matt Doherty, Joe Mason (Wolverhampton Wanderers)
1 goalscorer– Lee Frecklington (Rotherham United)
1 clean sheet– Keiren Westwood (Sheffield Wednesday)
10 un-used substitutes– Jack Bonham (Brentford), Stephen Henderson (Charlton Athletic), Cyrus Christie (Derby County), Joe Murphy (Huddersfield Town), David Meyler (Hull City), Kevin Foley (Ipswich Town), Samir Carruthers, Kevin Long (MK Dons), Eoin Doyle (Preston North End), Paddy Kenny (Rotherham United)
5 yellow cards – Alan Judge, Alan McCormack (Brentford), Anthony Pilkington (Cardiff City), Stephen Quinn (Reading), Leon Best (Rotherham United)
1 red card– Shane Duffy (Blackburn Rovers)

League One
24 appearances– Colin Doyle (Blackpool), Billy Clarke, Josh Cullen (Bradford City), Damien McCrory (Burton Albion), Cian Bolger, John O’Sullivan (Bury), Connor Dimaio, Jay O’Shea (Chesterfield), Jimmy Ryan (Fleetwood Town), Bradley Garmston (Gillingham), Aiden O’Brien, Shaun Williams (Millwall), Chris Forrester (Peterborough United), Sam Foley, Sam Kelly (Port Vale), Niall Canavan, Donal McDermott, Joe Rafferty (Rochdale), Paddy Madden (Scunthorpe United), Gary Deegan, Stephen McLaughlin (Southend United), Anton Rodgers (Swindon Town), Anthony Forde (Walsall), Chris McCann (Wigan Athletic)
2 goalscorers– Jay O’Shea (Chesterfield), Niall Canavan (Rochdale)
1 clean sheet– Colin Doyle (Blackpool)
7 un-used substitutes– Callum Reilly (Burton Albion), Stephen Hunt (Coventry City), John Egan (Gillingham), David Forde (Millwall), Stephen Dawson (Scunthorpe United), Graham Kelly (Sheffield United), Liam Kinsella (Walsall)
4 yellow cards – Josh Cullen (Bradford City), Cian Bolger, John O’Sullivan (Bury), Jimmy Ryan (Fleetwood Town)

League Two
24 appearances– Seamus Conneely (Accrington Stanley), Graham Stack (Barnet), Rory Gaffney, Liam Lawrence (Bristol Rovers), Charles Dunne, Shamir Fenelon, Frankie Sutherland (Crawley Town), Jake Carroll (Hartlepool United), Glen Rea, Alan Sheehan (Luton Town), Jamie Devitt, Barry Roche (Morecambe), Mark Byrne (Newport County), James Collins, Brendan Moloney, John-Joe O’Toole (Northampton Town), Graham Carey, Carl McHugh (Plymouth Argyle), Michael Doyle, Enda Stevens (Portsmouth), Jake Mulraney (Stevenage), Rhys Murphy (AFC Wimbledon), Michael Harriman (Wycombe Wanderers), James Berrett (York City)
2 goalscorers– Liam Lawrence (Bristol Rovers), Michael Harriman (Wycombe Wanderers)
4 un-used substitutes– Clinton Morrison (Exeter City), Ronan Murray (Notts County), Ryan Sweeney (AFC Wimbledon), Kenny McEvoy (York City)
8 yellow cards – Frankie Sutherland (Crawley Town), Jake Carroll (Hartlepool United), Mark Byrne (Newport County), John-Joe O’Toole (Northampton Town), Enda Stevens (Portsmouth), Jake Mulraney (Stevenage), Michael Harriman (Wycombe Wanderers), James Berrett (York City)

Johnstone’s Paint Trophy
3 appearances– Conor Hourihane, Aidan White (Barnsley), Callum O’Dowda (Oxford United)
1 goal– Callum O’Dowda (Oxford United)

National League
10 appearances– Sean McGinty (Aldershot Town), Josh O’Keefe (Altrincham), Conor Clifford (Boreham Wood), Sean Long (Braintree Town), Padraig Amond, Pat Hoban, James McKeown (Grimsby Town), Alan Power (Lincoln City), Mark O’Brien (Southport), Ryan O’Reilly (Wrexham)

Scottish Premiership
8 appearances– Willo Flood, Jonny Hayes (Aberdeen), Darren O’Dea (Dundee), Sean Dillon, Gavin Gunning (Dundee United), Gary Dicker (Kilmarnock), Graham Cummins, Joe Shaughnessy (St Johnstone)
1 un-used substitute– Richie Foran (Inverness CT)

*Only players still eligible to represent Republic of Ireland teams appear on this list

The game was played on the Army’s excellent sand-based Prunty pitch in warm sunshine and they took the lead on 28 minutes when Wexford Youths striker Chris Kenny collected a throw-in, swivelled and volleyed high into the net past goalkeeper Joe Coll.

The Universities went close to an equaliser when Shane Daly-Butz headed Ger O’Boyle’s cross over but he was whistled back for offside, Danny O’Connell had a shot saved and then Daly-Butz set up Jason Lyons to put the ball in the net but he too was called back for an offside decision.

Lee Delaney took a Joe Collins shot off the line for the Defence Forces on the hour mark from O’Connell’s delivery only for Declan Sheridan's team to make it 2-0 after 66 minutes.

Jody Dillon scored with a close range, side-footed finish from Friel’s cross before the Colleges and Universities pulled a goal back on 72 minutes when UCC’s Sean McLoughlin netted from Eoin McGreevey’s corner.

McLoughlin went close to an equaliser six minutes later when his header from another McGreevey corner was scrambled clear by the Army’s defensive lines and then Craig Wall on a run through from the half-way line fired just wide.

DefenceForces: Whelan (Browne h-t); Shortt, Grace, Delaney, Long; Dempsey (Wall h-t), O’Riordan (Walsh h-t); Fox (Deegan h-t), Gethins (Poutch 66), Friel; Kenny (Dillon 65).

Colleges&Universities: Coll (Daly 61); Brilly (Blake 68), McGuinness (McGreevey h-t), O’Mahony, O’Boyle (McNamara 68); O’Callaghan (Daly-Butz 20), O’Connor, Simpson (McLoughlin h-t), Collins (Taheny 62), McClelland (Coughlan h-t); Lyons (Broaders 62).

Referee: John Thompson (Cork).

Two years ago, the Kildare native was part of Dave Connell's talented squad - known as 'The History Girls' - who marched all the way to the semi-finals of the tournament in Norway. Back then she was a fringe player, but now she's a senior.

For the last year, Nolan has been dreaming about playing a starring role at a EURO Finals and she gets an opportunity to make that happen this week as Ireland kick off their Elite Phase qualifiers on home soil.

First up on Tuesday is Germany (KO 19:30, Tallaght Stadium) before meeting Azerbaijan on Thursday (KO 19:30, Tallaght Stadium), and then facing off against Poland on Sunday (KO 14:00, Tallaght Stadium). Three tough assignments but Nolan is ready for them. 

"I want to get back to the finals. It would be even better this time because I was only really a substitute breaking into the squad in 2014; now I'm more of someone in the mix to play games," said Nolan.

"This is a great squad and any of the girls can slot in and not weaken us. I want to be able to drive the girls forward as much as I can from midfield and use the experience that I got from the last EURO finals.

"Obviously I want us to qualify for the finals in Slovakia this summer, but I also want us to win it. But first things first, we need to beat Germany in our first game."

Nolan's confidence is refreshing and also shared amongst the Ireland squad, where work ethic and teamwork are valued as highly as technique or ambition. This is a group that wants to win together.

It is one of the reasons why 19-year-old Nolan is always excited to report back in for duty. Almost every other day of the year she is based in Hartford, Connecticut, where she studies Business & Finance and plays for a Division 1 college team.

Full-time training has clearly benefitted the fleet-footed midfielder as she is noticeably stronger off the ball and more accurate on it, although she is quick to brush off any plaudits in favour of promoting her team.

"I have definitely improved since moving to America. I'm doing a lot of gym work and getting great training in, but you need a team of players to win games and that is what is important," said Nolan.

"We have a great team spirit in this group and Dave [Connell] really motivates us. We all want to qualify for the finals and that is the only thing that matters right now."

Fixtures
Tuesday, April 5: Republic of Ireland v Germany - Tallaght Stadium, KO 19:30
Thursday, April 7: Republic of Ireland v Azerbaijan - Tallaght Stadium, KO 19:30
Sunday, April 10: Republic of Ireland v Poland - Tallaght Stadium, KO 14:00

Tickets are available at Tallaght Stadium, priced €5 for adults and €2 for children

Last month's FAI International Awards saw Denise O'Sullivan pick up the coveted Senior Women's International Player of the Year Award for the first time in her career. “I was absolutely delighted, it was an honour to win it,” O’Sullivan said of winning the acolade.

O'Sullivan was speaking to FAI TV ahead of Thursday’s qualifier away to Montenegro, which is the WNT’s first game since last month’s promising Cyprus Cup campaign that culminated in a win over EURO 2017 group rivals Finland. Those performances are something O'Sullivan is looking to build on over the next two games. “We have a mixture of youth and experience, so it’s a great squad. We had fantastic performances and the results didn’t reflect that in all four games. We did play Finland in the last game and beat them, whereas we played them a couple of months ago and lost in the qualifiers, so to beat them gives us confidence going into these qualifiers.”

January this year saw the Girls in Green travel to San Diego to take on world Champions, USA, and O’Sullivan feels that workout will stand Sue Ronan’s side in good stead. “It was great to get that game under our belt. Obviously some of the best players in the world are playing in that team.  It was a great run out for us and those are the type of games we want to play going into the Spain game.  There are some fantastic players in the Spain team, I think we saw that a few months ago, so it will be a tough game but we are more than ready to take them on and give it our best shot.“

O’Sullivan’s performance against the world champions did not go unrecognised and in the aftermath of the game, top Women’s National Soccer League side Houston Dash came calling. “I signed for Houston Dash a few weeks ago. It was actually after the USA game in January where it all came about. I’m going over after this camp, there are very good players there, and one of them, Carli Lloyd, is World Player of the Year,  so it will be great training with them and the level over there is fantastic, so I’m really looking forward to it,” O’Sullivan added.

The interview in full can be viewed below: 

Republic of Ireland WNT’s upcoming UEFA Women’s EURO 2017 Qualifiers:

Thursday April 7th: Montenegro WNT v Republic of Ireland WNT, Petrovac, 13:00 (Irish Time)

Tuesday, April 12th: Spain WNT v Republic of Ireland WNT, Madrid, 19:30 (Irish Time) 

Azerbaijan 0-0 Poland

Poland passed up a clear-cut chance to open the scoring in the 12th minute when Agnieszka Jędrzejewicz was put through on goal but blazed over with just keeper Aytaj Sharifova to beat.

Azerbaijan defender Vesela Borukova made a stunning goal-line clearance to deny Patrycja Matla a certain opener in the 44th minute as Poland's pressure on the Azeri goal looked set to finally pay dividends.

The Azeris had a big chance to break the deadlock on the hour but Yaiza Relea fired over after bursting into the Polish penalty area.

Poland attacker Jędrzejewicz had a powerful shot from distance bravely saved by Sharifova in the 70th minute as the pressure continued on the Azeri goal.

The Poles came close to grabbing a sensational winner in the 89th minute when captain Ewa Cieśla dribbled past two defenders but unfortunately her shot was too high to trouble the keeper.

AZERBAIJAN: Aytaj Sharifova, Diana Mammadova, Vesela Borukova, Natalia Loa, Malena Ortiz, Yaiza Relea, Nigar Jalilli (Susan Mansimova 90+2), Kristina Bakarandze (Firangiz Teymurova 64), Aysun Aliyeva, Lucia Sanchez, Samara Ortiz.

POLAND: Kinga Szemik, Kamila Szafrańska (Julia Wycisk 84),         Klaudia Lefeld (Michalina Kowalska 61), Małgorzata Mesjasz, Patrycja Matla, Patrycja Falborska, Agnieszka Jędrzejewicz, Karolina Ostrowska, Aleksandra Nieciąg (Patrycja Jerzak 46), Ewa Cieśla, Katarzyna Michalska      .

Connell’s side produced a strong defensive performance in Tallaght Stadium with Vikoria Schwalm’s first half strike collecting all three points for Germany.

Amanda McQuillan was the busier of the two goalkeepers in the first half, the Irish defence keeping the German shots at range, McQuillan stopping both Sanders and Ehegotz.

Germany took the lead on 31 minutes, the hosts failed to fully clear with Lina Hauslcke chipped pass slotted past McQuillan by Viktoria Schwalm.

McQuillan produced a super save to stop and hold Isabella Hartig’s edge of the box free kick one minute before half time, Savannah McCarthy having fouled Sanders.

Nina Ehegotz rattled the McQuillan’s cross bar on 51 minutes while McQuillan reached to produce a clean grab on Schwalm’s 25 yard drive down.

Ireland had Germany on the back foot for  many periods in the second half with good word from Roma McLaughlin and Hayley Nolan though failed to test German keeper Brandt

Jamie Finn had Irelands first clear cut chance 60 seconds later, linking up with Roma McLaughlin though firing over Brandt’s cross bar.

McQuillan was at her best again on 72 minutes, this time stopping with her legs as Sanders charged in on goal with the Irish wanting an offside.

Schwalm blasted Walking’s corner over the bar with the Irish defensive door refusing to open for a second time.

Ireland shouted for a penalty in the final minute as German captain Michaela Specht bundled second half substitute Rachel Kearns over.

The opening round results see’s Ireland in fourth place in group one after Azerbaijan drew 1-1 with Poland in group one’s other fixture.

Ireland face Azerbaijan in their second Group 1 game on Thursday in Tallaght Stadium, kick off 7.30pm.

Germany: Brandy, Specht, Hauslcke, Hartig, Gasper (Kempe h-t), Schalm, Walkling, Feldkamp, Gerhardt, Ehegotz, Sanders.

Republic of Ireland: McQuillan, Nelson, Keenan, McCarthy, Prior, Finn (Kearns 72), Daly (McCartan 50), Nolan, Gargan, McLaughlin, Nolan (Beirne 81).

Referee: L Otte (Belgium).

The meeting with Montenegro is followed on Tuesday by a trip to Madrid to face group leaders Spain, who defeated the Girls in Green 0-3 earlier in the campaign.

Preparations for the game have been ideal with the squad travelling to Vienna for a three day training camp before flying to Montengro this morning.  Head Coach Sue Ronan has been impressed with how the build-up to the game has gone so far, “The camp has been very very good. We arrived on Sunday night, didn’t have a full compliment of players (until Monday) because of club duty, but it’s gone very well. The players are looking sharp and eager to go.“

Following a 0-2 defeat in their last qualifier to Finland, Ireland travellled to the Cyprus Cup last month where hugely encouraging performances culminated in a reversal of that scoreline against group rivals Finland. On the back of the renewed confidence in the squad, maximum points is the aim this week according to Ronan, “We spoke at the beginning of this week about the aim of this week, and the aim is to get six points. We go into each match hoping to win.  Montenegro are first up on Thursday and that’s been taking our focus up until now and will be until that game is over. We want to build on the performances in the Cyprus Cup, we really played very well. There were some excellent passages of play, both in attack and in defence. All the results didn’t go our way, but that’s football.  I think if we can sharpen up on one or two elements of our game I’m hopeful that we will do really well over the coming week.”

Despite Montenegro’s postion in the group they have proven themselves to be an impressive outfit, one that this Ireland team will not be taking for granted going into the game. “There are no weak teams in international football anymore at women’s level. Every team deserves respect and every team on it’s given day can trouble another team,” Ronan stated. ”I look at my squad and the strength in it, the experience in it and indeed the desire in it. They are fully focused on going out in the game on Thursday and getting the three points. It’s not going to be easy but if we play as well as we can we should certainly win the game.” 

Kick-off for tomorrow’s UEFA Women’s EURO 2017 Qualifier between Montenegro WNT and the Republic of Ireland WNT in Petrovac is 13:00 Irish Time.

Live updates of the game will be provided on the Official FAIreland Twitter, Facebook and Instagram accounts throughout.

Republic of Ireland Women’s National Team Squad to face Montenegro:

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

Defenders: Louise Quinn (Eskilstuna United), Jessica Gleeson (Wexford Youths), Niamh Fahey (Chelsea), Sophie Perry (Brighton & Hove Albion), Meabh De Burca (Galway) Aine O’Gorman (UCD Waves).

Midfielders: Karen Duggan (UCD Waves), Denise O’Sullivan (Houston Dash), Diane Caldwell (Kóln), Ruesha Littlejohn (Glasgow City), Julie-Ann Russell (UCD Waves), Katie McCabe (Arsenal), Emma Hansberry (Wexford Youths), Jetta Berrill (UCD Waves)

Forwards: Stephanie Roche (Sunderland), Fiona O’Sullivan (California Storm), Clare Shine (Glasgow City)

Dave Connell's team narrowly lost 1-0 to Germany in their Group 1 opener at Tallaght Stadium but a positive performance has left midfielder Jessica Gargan enthused about bouncing back.

The former Peamount United ace, now based in the United States at Quinnipiac University, insists that Ireland can overcome their next opponent and get back in the mix for reaching this summer's finals.

"We were disappointed with the loss to Germany and I know a lot of people will say that losing 1-0 to them is good, but we felt that we could have got something from the game as we put them under a lot of pressure," said Gargan.

"We will take a lot of positives from that game - particularly from the second half when we changed our formation and pressed them high. But we move on now to the next game with the belief that we can take the three points."

Gargan was part of 'The History Girls' squad in 2014 that reached the UEFA European semi-finals, so she knows what it takes to join the elite teams at the top level.

It is why the 19-year-old is adamant that this current squad can get past Azerbaijan on Thursday and Poland on Sunday afternoon. Why? Because they are a team on and off the pitch.

"We have been together as a group for five or six years now, so we know each other inside out. We have each other's back and if someone falls down there will be someone to pick them back up," said Gargan.

"This next game is huge for us. We know what we have to do and everyone in the squad believes that we can win it - we just have to go out there and do it."

Fixtures
Thursday, April 7: Republic of Ireland v Azerbaijan - Tallaght Stadium, KO 19:30
Sunday, April 10: Republic of Ireland v Poland - Tallaght Stadium, KO 14:00

Tickets are available at Tallaght Stadium, priced €5 for adults and €2 for children

Paul Osam's side can perhaps consider themselves unlucky not to have at least found the target in a thrilling encounter but the Turks - unbeaten at this level with this group of players - were very impressive in the first half particularly.

Atalay Babacan opened the scoring in the ninth minute when he steered home from a low cross by Ramazan Civelek, who made a brilliant right-wing overlap before crossing.

The Turks extended their lead in the 17th minute when hesitant Irish defending was punished and Malik Karaahmet scored from close range after Irish keeper Brian Maher failed to hold onto an initial strike in slippery conditions.

Ireland had a chance to pull one back in the 23rd minute when Arsenal winger Nathan Tormey fired narrowly over with a free-kick from the edge of the box.

Two minutes later West Ham midfielder Conor Coventry delivered a brilliant corner and St Joseph's Boys defender Joe Redmond got a good connection but headed over from close range.

Early in the second half Mervue United striker Aaron Connolly showed his quality when he cut inside the Turkish defence and produced a powerful strike that keeper Ozan Can Oruç did well to parry.

Ireland's good pressure was undone when the Turks went 3-0 up in the 58th minute. Yunus Akgun scored at back post after a clever dribble down the right byline by Recep Gul and his cross failed to be cleared by the home defence.

Connolly had a low free-kick comfortably saved by the keeper in the 66th minute when just 60 seconds later St Kevin's Boys defender Dominic Peppard cut in from the left but his right-footed effort lacked the pace to overly trouble Can Oruç.

In the 71st minute a fantastic cross by Blackpool's Rowan Roache found the head of Connolly but the Turkish keeper made a top class stop to keep out the striker's header.

Roache hit another testing cross from the left in the 79th minute but Belvedere's Ruari Patton saw his header from a tight angle once again saved by the keeper.

The two sides will meet again at the same venue on Friday afternoon (12.00pm).

"It was a good learning curve for both myself and the coaching staff," said Ireland Head Coach Paul Osam.

"We were too open against such a high quality side as the Turks in the first half but we tightened things up at the break and in the second half we created numerous chances. The next step is to convert those chances but overall there were plenty of positives to take into Friday's game."

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND: Brian Maher, Luke Nolan, Dominic Peppard, Joe Redmond, Kevin Healy, Aaron Bolger, Conor Coventry, Cian Hughes, Rowan Roache, Aaron Connolly, Nathan Tormey. Subs: Jordan Doherty for Hughes 61 mins; Ruari Patton for Tormey 61; Cameron Moore for Connolly 76.

TURKEY: Ozan Can Oruç, Ramazan Emirhan Civelek, Ozan Muhammed Kabak, Ercan Şirin, Kerem Atakan Kesgin, Malik Karaahmet, Atalay Babacan, Enes Islam Ilkin, Adnan Emir Koldere, Abdussamed Karnuçu, Yunus Akgün. Subs: Bekir Melih Gökçimen for Sirin 41 mins; Ogün Çalişkan for Ilkin 41; Recep Gül for Koldere 41; Sefa Akgün for Karnuçu 69; Mehmet Kaan Türkmen for Karaahmet 69; Hasan Ali Adigüzel for Y Akgün 76.

RESULTS & FIXTURES

Wednesday, April 6

U16 International Friendly

Republic of Ireland 0-3 Turkey, Whitehall

Friday, April 8

U16 International Friendly

Republic of Ireland v Turkey, Whitehall (12.00pm)

Supporters will be able to secure their seat at the Aviva Stadium for five senior men's home internationals, including three FIFA World Cup qualifiers, and any additional game to the schedule will be offered as a bonus game.

Becoming a Season Ticket holder is the best way to be recognised as a loyal Ireland supporter and to further reward loyal supporters, for the second consecutive year, the Football Association of Ireland have included an exclusive discount for all 2015/16 Season Ticket holders who renew at any stage of the campaign.

As Martin O'Neill's team prepare for UEFA EURO 2016 the excitement continues to build around the country and it won't be long before the team is getting ready for qualification for the 2018 FIFA World Cup with Georgia first to visit the Aviva Stadium on October 6.

Being there on memorable nights, like when Shane Long scored against Germany or when Jonathan Walters' double sealed the Play-Off win over Bosnia & Herzegovina, is what being an Ireland supporter is all about. And with a Season Ticket you won't miss any of those crucial home internationals.

On top of that, there are some exclusive benefits that make the 2016/17 Season Ticket package even more appealing to Ireland supporters.

                              2016/17 FAI Season Ticket Benefits
- Exclusive discount for 2015/16 Season Ticket holders
- Pre-sale option for additional men's senior home international tickets
- Complimentary access to women's senior home international games
- Discount and pre-sale on tickets for club games
- Discount for Ireland gear on FAIShop.com
- Entry into competitions for signed jerseys and ball boy/girl & flag bearer places
- Invitation to annual Open Training Session at Aviva Stadium
- 10% discount off CityJet fares departing from Dublin & Cork
- Entry into Irish Daily Mail FAI Cup Final & Contintental FAI Women's Cup Final

                                 2016/17 FAI Season Ticket Prices

                                        Renewal Price            New Supporter Price
Category A                              €210                                €220
Category B                              €160                                €170
Category C                              €120                                €130
Family Section                        €280                                €310
Singing Section                       €120                                €130
Student                                    €90                                  €96
Child                                        €45                                  €48
Supporter with Disability         €120                                €130

*These packages are also available in two-part instalments

To purchase the 2016/17 Season Ticket package, visit faiseasontickets.ie

*Please note that the 'Three' International Friendly between Republic of Ireland v Netherlands on Friday, May 27 is included in the 2015/16 Season Ticket

2016 EA SPORTS CUP SECOND ROUND FIXTURE SCHEDULE

POOL 1

Mon. 18 April                     Cork City                              v              Waterford United            Turner’s Cross                                   7.45 pm

Tues. 19 April                     Limerick                               v              Wexford Youths               Markets Field                                    7.15 pm

POOL 2

Mon. 18 April                     Galway United                  v              Finn Harps                           Eamonn Deacy Park                        7.45 pm

Tues. 19 April                     Derry City                            v              Sligo Rovers                        Brandywell Stadium                        7.45 pm

POOL 3

Mon. 18 April                     Dundalk                               v              St. Patrick’s Athletic        Oriel Park                                            7.45 pm

Tues. 19 April                     Bray Wanderers               v              Bluebell United                 Carlisle Grounds                               7.45 pm

POOL 4

Mon. 18 April                     Shelbourne                        v              Bohemians                         Tolka Park                                           7.45 pm

Tues. 19 April                     Shamrock Rovers             v              Athlone Town                   Tallaght Stadium                               7.45 pm

If the scores are level after 90 minutes of play, then extra-time of 30 minutes shall be played. If the scores are still level, then a penalty shoot-out shall take place in order to determine the winners of the tie.

The sides will meet in Clonmel Celtic FC on Monday (3.00pm) and again on Wednesday (12.00pm) at Cahir Park AFC.

"It's our final two fixtures of the year so it's another opportunity for them to play a really high level opponent," said O'Brien.

"These games are always a great chance for our players to learn what is required to play against that a calibre of opponent which the Czech Republic normally prove to be.

"We've brought in a couple of new players so it's an opportunity for those players to learn about this level of the game while the players that were in before will hopefully build on what we've worked on with them throughout the season."

After two impressive performances against Poland in November, O'Brien's U15s travelled to a tournament in Turkey in February and produced some excellent displays against Netherlands, Turkey and Austria.

"We had an assessment day in March with 32 players but this will be the first time to work with the players since the tournament in February. We'll be focusing on the four functions of the game - attacking, defending and the transitions - both from a visual and practical point of view which will add to the players' knowledge," he added.

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND U15 SQUAD:

Adam Idah (Corinthians Boys)

Tyriek Wright (Lakewood)

Adam O'Reilly (Ringmahon Rangers)

Sean Brennan (Belvedere)

Jason Knight (Cabinteely)

Nathan Collins (Cherry Orchard)

Kevin O'Reilly (Cherry Orchard)

Seanie Mahon (Cherry Orchard)

Oisin McEntee (Malahide United)

Callum Thompson (St Joseph's Boys)

Max Murphy (St Joseph's Boys)

Kian Clarke (St Kevin's Boys)

Jamin Nwanze (St Kevin's Boys)

Kameron Ledwidge (St Kevin's Boys)

Ray O'Sullivan (St Kevin's Boys)

Marc Walsh (Gweedore Celtic)

Sam O'Gorman (Mervue United)

Hakeem Ryan (Mervue United)

Ciaran Brennan (East End Utd)

Barry Coffey (Nenagh AFC)

FIXTURES

U15 Friendly Internationals

Monday, April 11

Republic of Ireland v Czech Republic, Clonmel Celtic FC (3.00pm)

Wednesday, April 13

Republic of Ireland v Czech Republic, Cahir Park AFC (12.00pm)

Janesboro, Pike Rovers, and Bluebell United all secured wins in the First Round, while Killester United will have to take on Cherry Orchard again in a replay following a 1-1 draw.

There are still four games to play out in the First Round with two taking place this coming weekend and two more to follow next week.

Meanwhile, the draw for the Second Round will take place on Tuesday, April 26 at 17:00 in the Henry Dunlop Suite at the Aviva Stadium. 

Results
St John Bosco 2-4 Janesboro
Pike Rovers 1-0 Rockmount
Carrigaline United 0-5 Bluebell United

Replay
Killester United v Cherry Orchard, Elmdale, Sunday, April 24, KO 11:00

Fixtures
Bandon v Ringmahon Rangers, Town Park, Sunday, April 10, KO 10:45
Portmarnock v Letterkenny Rovers, Paddy's Hill, Sunday, April 10, KO 14:30
Crumlin United v Greystones United, Pearse Park Astro, Tuesday, April 12, KO 20:00
St Peter's v Leeside, Dubarry Park, Saturday, April 16, KO 17:00

Sharon Boyle's side are preparing for the UEFA Development Tournament in Hungary next month so these fixtures in Dragon Park, Newport, will prove very useful to their progress.

The UEFA Development tournament will see the Irish meet hosts Hungary, Bosnia & Herzegovina and Slovalkia.

"The focus is on the May development tournament in May so we're preparing for this and then looking to help to prepare for the next step to U17s next season," said Boyle.

"We welcome back Tegan Ruddy, Heather Payne and Sadbh Doyle from the U17s where they had a good campaign in the UEFA Qualifiers.

"You can see the influence that those three have brought to the group and the levels have improved in the sessions and hopefully it'll show in the games.

"We'll expect two very tough tests for the girls against Wales. For many of them it's their first time away trip as a group so naturally there's a lot of nerves but they'll benefit from the experience.

"Two of the girls Aoife Lynagh and Doireann Fahey played with the Irish Schools last week and did very well so we'll monitor their progress this weekend.

"We lost two players, Tyler Toland from Maiden City and Amy Boyle Carr from Donegal Town, both out with tonsillitis so that was unfortunate but it gives an opportunity for other players to show what they can do."

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND WOMEN'S U16 SQUAD:

Carla McManus (Bealnamualla FC)

Harriet Lambe (Bristol City Academy)

Megan Mackey (Chelsea Ladies FC)

Gillian Keenan (Emo Celtic FC)

Emma Lawlor (Emo Celtic FC)

Lauryn Grier (Kentstown Rovers FC)

Hannah O’Donoghue (Killarney Celtic FC)

Rachel Baynes (Castlebar Celtic)

Tiegan Ruddy (Peamount United FC)

Doireann Fahey (Peamount United FC)

Keelin McEntee (Peamount United FC)

Niamh Coombes (Peamount United FC)

Bethany Carroll (Piltown AFC)

Tara Mannix (Regional United FC)

Sadbh Doyle (Salthill Devon WFC)

Aoife Lynagh (Salthill Devon WFC)

Heather Payne (Salthill Devon WFC)

Erica Turner (Shelbourne LFC)

Aoife Fennell (Shelbourne LFC)

Sophie O’Donoghue (Shelbourne LFC)

Tara Cully (Shelbourne LFC)

FIXTURES

Women's U16 International Friendlies

Friday, April 8

Wales v Republic of Ireland, Dragon Park, Newport (7.30pm)

Sunday, April 10

Wales v Republic of Ireland, Dragon Park, Newport (12.30pm)

The lead came as early as the third minute when a short corner routine culminated with Julie-Ann Russell’s cross to the back post being headed home by Louise Quinn.

Ireland pressed hard for a second but it was Montenegro who had the next guilt edged opportunity as Armisa Kuc found space in the penalty area, only to be thwarted by the onrushing Emma Byrne.

Ireland continued to hold the lion's share of possesion and doubled their lead in the 24th minute as Julie-Ann Russell once again whipped a dangerous cross into the area, this time finding Katie McCabe. McCabe touched it down for Aine O’Gorman to finish into the bottom left corner of the net.

Just sixty second later Ireland were 3-0 ahead. O’Gorman raced into the box only to be taken down by Montenegro captain Sladjana Bulatovic. The referee had no hesitation in pointing to the spot where Ruesha Littlejohn scored her second penalty in succesive games, finishing low to the ‘keepers right.

Ten minutes into the second half, Meabh De Burca found space in the channel and hit an inviting ball into the Montenegro area that Fiona O’Sullivan was inches away from connecting with.

Ireland went close once more as Sophie Perry got on the end of a through ball but was denied by a fantastic save from Jovana Bajetic in the Montenegro goal. Two second half substitutes teamed up for the next chance as Stephanie Roche fired just over after a good one-two with Denise O’Sullivan.

The fourth goal finally came and it was worth the wait. Denise O’Sullivan jinked in the box, wrong footing the defender, before lashing a fierce right footed strike into the far corner. A simply stunning strike.

Ireland weren’t finished there as in the 85th minute, Julie-Ann Russell, who was a threat throughout, got to the endline before finding Stephanie Roche who headed home from six yards. 

A record-equaliing win for Ireland who head to Madrid next Tuesday for a clash with table toppers Spain with a spring in their step.

Following the game Head Coach Sue Ronan reflected on the victory before setting her sights on the Spanish challenge to come on Tuesday. 

RepublicofIreland WNT: Emma Byrne (c), Sophie Perry, Louise Quinn, Niamh Fahey, Karen Duggan, Diane Caldwell, Aine O’Gorman, Ruesha Littlejohn, Julie-Ann Russell, Katie McCabe, Meabh De Burca.

Subs: Stephanie Roche for Katie McCabe HT. Fiona O’Sullivan for Aine O’Gorman 62mins. Denise O’Sullivan for Diane Caldwell 72 mins.

MontenegroWNT: Jovana Bajetic, Zeljka Radanovic, Andreja Vidic, Tatjana Djurkovic, Sladjana Bulatovic (c), Milica Vulic, Tamara Bojat, Jasna Djokovic, Armisa Kuc, Aleksandra Popovic, Jovana Mrkic.

Subs: Jovana Zlaticanin for Aleksandra Popovic HT. Tamara Bojat for Dijana Miljanic 70 mins. Helena Bozic for Andreja Vidic.

After beating Ireland 1-0 in their opening fixture, the Germans were the favourites for this tie and started well but they were staring defeat in the face when the Poles took a 51st minute lead through Karolina Wierzbicka.

The Germans hit the Polish upright through Jana Feldkamp in the 12th minute before Isabella Hartig rattled the crossbar with a long range effort in the 29th minute.

Poland were given another let off two minutes into the second half when Andrea Viehl smashed a shot off the crossbar from close range.

Germany looked set to suffer the consequences of those missed chances when they conceded a sloppy opener six minutes into the second half. Defender Melissa Friedrich under-hit a back pass and Wierzbicka raced in to steal possession and rounded keeper Lena Pauels before firing home.

That added some pep to the German step and less than one minute later Stefanie Sanders missed from a decent opportunity to grab an immediate equaliser.

It could have been worse for the Germans as the impressive Polish captain Ewa Cieśla produced a stunning free-kick from wide on the left that keeper Pauels did very well to turn onto the crossbar in the 62nd minute.

Nine minutes later Germany equalised through an impressive low strike from Nina Ehegötz from 25 yards that found the net via the base of an upright.

Poland responded well and Małgorzata Mesjasz was unlucky not to head them back in front in the 75th minute when connecting with a Cieśla corner. A defender reacted well to head off the line.

Germany took the lead in the 78th minute when Franziska Gieseke pounced to turn the ball home after the Polish keeper failed to hold a shot from Anna Gerhardt.

Ehegötz made it 3-1 in the 94th minute when she fired home after the Poles failed to clear following a great run and cross by Viktoria Schwalm down the left.

GERMANY: Pauels, Hartig, Friedrich, Feldkamp, Karl, Schwalm, Gerhardt, Viehl (Gasper 59), Hausicke, Walkling (Gieseke 60), Sanders (Ehegötz 63).

POLAND: Szemik, Szafrańska, Wycisk, Wierzbicka (Kowalska 76), Lefeld (Ossowska 74), Mesjasz, Matla, Falborska, Jędrzejewicz (Michalska 88), Ostrowska, Cieśla.

The Irish were beaten 3-0 by the impressive Turks on Wednesday evening but showed considerable improvement in the second half after conceding two early goals.

Irish head coach Osam wants his side to show what they've learned when the sides meet again tomorrow.

"We knew how good they were going to be and their record over the past two years speaks for itself but we were probably victims of our own naivety to some degree," he said.

"The formation we started with didn't really lend itself to being solid enough against a side of that quality so we had a chat about it at half-time and changed our formation to more of a 4-2-3-1 after starting with a 4-3-3 and it gave us a bit more solidity.

"Turkey killed us on the counterattack in the first half. They were quick and powerful and we couldn't quite match them in the first half. In the second half we were a lot more solid and some of our play was very good.

"We created a lot of opportunities to score in the second half but I spoke the difference with Turkey was that when they got the chances they were clinical and we weren't.

"When I look back on the first half there were positives to take out of it. The players will have learned something I hope and myself and the coaching staff I believe we'll have learned a lot too."

Osam believes that this group of Irish players have plenty of creative qualities and now wants them to improve and start converting those opportunities.

"To create chances at international football you have to be doing something right and that's testament to the players. We'd 11 players in this squad so naturally it will take time for some to adjust," he said.

"We'll analyse want went well and what didn't. Everybody who didn't start on Wednesday will start in the second game. I feel we'll be a bit further along as a group for the second game and hope we can produce a performance to reflect that."

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND U16 SQUAD:

Nathan Tormey (Arsenal)

Cian Lee (Belvedere)

Kevin Healy (Belvedere)

Richie O'Farrell (Belvedere)

Rowan Roache (Blackpool)

Ruari  Patton (Belvedere)

Cameron Moore (Bolton Wanderers)

Aaron Connolly (Mervue United)

Ronan Manning (Mervue United)

Jordan Doherty (Sheffield United)

Cian Hughes (St Francis)

Jack Connolly (St Francis)

Aaron Bolger (St Joseph's Boys)

Ryan Burke (St Joseph's Boys)

Joe Redmond (St Joseph's Boys)

Brian Maher (St Kevin's Boys)

Dominic Peppard (St Kevin's Boys)

Luke Nolan (St Patricks Athletic)

Tom Murphy (UCD)

Conor Coventry (West Ham)

FIXTURES

Wednesday, April 6

U16 International Friendly

Republic of Ireland 0-3 Turkey, Whitehall

Friday, April 8

U16 International Friendly

Republic of Ireland v Turkey, Whitehall (12.00pm)