Dundalk FC will be entered in the UEFA Champions League while Cork City FC, Saint Patrick’s Athletic FC and Shamrock Rovers will be entered in the Europa League.

Football fever is gripping the nation this summer and the Sports Direct.com FAI Summer Soccer Schools are back! Book HERE!

Republic of Ireland manager Martin O'Neill was on hand at Aviva Stadium today to launch the 2016 Sports Direct.com FAI Summer Soccer Schools programme. Both O'Neill and Roy Keane were huge supporters of the programme last year and hope to be involved again this year.

The Sports Direct.com FAI Summer Soccer Schools programme is the FAI's largest grassroots programme and one of the most important as it encourages children's involvement in sport, in a fun and friendly environment. Now in its 20th year, the summer camps enjoyed record participation numbers last year with over 26,500 children from all around the country taking part. 

Camps are priced at €65, with discounts available for siblings and multiple camp bookings, and are a fantastic way to introduce children aged between 6 and 14 to football. The week-long camps come with a high standard of coaching and care delivered by Garda vetted FAI qualified coaches and begin on July 6 and run right through to August 28 (Monday-Friday 10:30am to 3pm).

Speaking at today's launch, Ireland manager O'Neill said: "Roy and I visited Temple Street last year and saw the great work fundraising does so I'm personally very proud to be involved again this year. The camps are superbly run by the FAI and offer children a great opportunity to play a sport and make new friends. Perhaps we could have the next Irish superstar to come from these camps."

Leonard Brassel, Managing Director of Heatons and Sports Direct Ireland said: "Sports Direct are delighted to partner with the FAI and support a grassroots programme as important as the FAI Summer Soccer Schools. Anything that gets kids active and healthy is something we're proud to be associated with.

"We are now in the second year of the sponsorship and it's important to let existing Heatons / Sports World customers know that Sports Direct International has recently acquired the company. All Sports World stories will be rebranded over the next few months into Sports Direct stores. Heatons and Sports Direct Ireland are now an integral part of the Sports Direct International's portfolio. Customers can expect even better value now in Sports Direct Ireland stores due to our buying power internationally.

"We are delighted to also continue the extremely positive relationship that Heatons started last year with Temple Street Children's Hospital as our charity partner. We'll also give away a number of free places to the camps on Facebook. Our customers loved these last year."

All camp participants receive a new fully branded Sports Direct FAI Summer Soccer Schools kit, football and backpack. All attendees will also receive 20% off all Sports Direct and Heatons products in store.Book your place HERE.

The SSE Airtricity League First Division game between Shelbourne and Athlone Town on Friday, April 29 will kick off at 18:45 rather than the original time of 19:45.

The EA Sports Cup Quarter-Final between Shelbourne and Shamrock Rovers on Monday, May 2 will now kick off at 17:00 instead of the original time of 19:00.

Also, the SSE Airtricity League Premier Division game between Bray Wanderers and Shamrock Rovers originally schedule for Saturday, July 30 will now take place on Friday, July 29 at the Carlisle Grounds - kicking off at 19:45.

The winning score came on 17 minutes after Jason McClelland floated in a perfect cross from the left and as Welsh ‘keeper Ashley Morris failed to get a touch on the ball Jason Lyons headed it back across the goal and Poynton managed to head home.

The Irish dominated the rest of the half and Lyons might have increased the lead but Morris held on to his firm drive and later the striker had another great effort blocked by Luke Cooper. Anthony McAlavey then shot wide after a great run from his own half.

The main threat from the Welsh came from full back Bobby Briers long throw ins and free kicks but the Irish defence well marshalled by an outstanding display from centre back Paul Rooney stood firm.

A much improved second half performance from the home side saw them make the Irish work hard to hold their lead and the Welsh best chance of an equaliser came when Declan Sheppard had a close range header well held by goal keeper Matt Connor.

While Joe Collins could have sealed the win with a late second goal after good work from McAlavey but he fired well over.

Welsh Universities: A Morris; B Briers, L Cooper, D Vincent, M Long; A Orme C Greene, B Flay (J Bloom 65), L Gerard (N Hayden 76); E Bellamy (J Roberts 70), T Webbe (D Sheppard 70).

Ireland Colleges & Universities: M Connor; A Brilly, P Rooney, R Taheny (G Kearney 66), G O’Boyle; R Coughlan (D O’Connell h-t), J McKeown (C Barry 75), A McAlavey, G Poynton (J Collins 82), J McClelland (K McDaid 61); J Lyons (D Broaders h-t).

Referee: M Boucher.

Carrigaline Community School ace Aaron Drinan got the Irish scholars off to the perfect start with a goal inside six minutes with a splendid 35 yard screamer that curled past Roberts in goal.

Aaron’s second of the night came courtesy of some great play from Raphoe’s Billy Banda as he slipped the ball into the path of Eoghan Morgan. The Mount Temple student hit the by-line and squared the ball to the impressive Drinan who made no mistake in front of goal. Two up with 36 minutes played.

The Irish were unfortunate that they didn’t extend their goal tally four minutes from the interval as Captain Jamie Aherne just couldn’t connect with Drinan’s rebounded shot on goal.

Paddy O’Reilly made a number of substitutions in the second half which saw Davitt College pupil Fintan Borotto make his International debut as Billy Banda made way. 

Confey College starlet Aherne was lively throughout the first half and kept this momentum going as he forced Roberts into a smart save four minutes into the restart.

The Irish Captain finally got on the scoresheet with a converted penalty on 55 minutes ensuring the tie was out of Welsh reach. 

The Irish were in total control in the latter stages as the Welsh were restricted to shots from range. A great finish to the Republic of Ireland Centenary Shield campaign which saw O’Reilly maintain his unbeaten record in this competition. 

Republic of Ireland: Coffey (Chambers 73), Morgan, Kane, Scales, McCarthy, Hanney, G Doherty (A Delap 65), Drinan, K Doherty (Brouder h-t), Banda (Borotto 60), Aherne.

Wales: Roberts, Nash, Davies, K Jones (Kilburn h-t), Pratt, Woods, Maksimovic (Touray 75), S Jones (Woods h-t), A Jones (Lovett 85), Bibby, Boyles (Edwards 79).

The 2016/17 Republic of Ireland away kit has been revealed. You can pre-order yours now at FAIShop.com. 

The new kit is in stores from Friday, May 6. FAIShop.com is the only place you will find the full official range of Republic of Ireland EURO 2016 merchandise, including, shirt names and numbers, match details and sleeve badges. 

The Irish will meet Hungary, Austria and Slovakia in the annual event which helps prepare sides for the competitive UEFA U17 Championships qualifiers in the autumn.

Osam's side recently played Turkey in two testing friendly internationals in Dublin and participated in the Victory Shield Tournament in Wales in November.

"This is the last event for this age group and the third event we've had with them in the season so we're looking forward to the tournament," said Osam.

"It's going to be a tough week again and once again we're playing some decent sides. We've done a bit of research on our opponents and we know what we'll need to be strong and organised.

"But there's also a requirement to be able to attack as well at this level and the players need to know their roles. That's our jobs as the coaching staff.

"Of course you want to win the games but there's a balance between wanting to win and develop players as the same time."

Osam felt that despite the losses to Turkey earlier this month there were elements of the performances which were pleasing but he is looking for improvement in the tournament this week.

"With the exception of some errors in the first half of the first game against Turkey we didn't play poorly defensively but we worked hard to be more compact defensively in the second of those games," he added.

"We know we can defend as a team but we also have to be better offensively. We have added pace to our attack with Callum Thompson coming in and I feel Aaron Connolly is very good on the counter so if we can focus on our transitions to attack we can take advantage of their attributes.

"We'll be looking to give the players that information in training in preparation for these games and we will be looking for them to continue their learning in these games."

The Irish meet hosts Hungary in Telki on Monday afternoon (12.30pm Irish).

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND U16 SQUAD:

Cian Lee (Belvedere)

Richie O'Farrell (Belvedere)

Rowan Roache (Blackpool)

Cian Murphy (Cork City)

Marcus Rowley (Malaga)

Aaron Connolly (Mervue United)

Jordan Doherty (Sheffield United)

Lorcan Callaghan (Sligo Rovers)

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)

Callum Thompson (St Joseph's Boys)

Kameron Ledwidge (St Kevin's Boys)

Brian Maher (St Kevin's Boys)

Dominic Peppard (St Kevin's Boys)

Luke Nolan (St Patrick's Athletic)

Lee O'Connor (Villa FC)

Conor Coventry (West Ham United)

FIXTURES

UEFA U16 Development Tournament

Monday, May 2

Hungary v Republic of Ireland, Telki, Hungary (12.30pm Irish)

.

Wednesday, May 4

Republic of Ireland v Austria, Telki, Hungary (4.00pm Irish)

Friday, May 6

Slovakia v Republic of Ireland, Telki, Hungary (10.00am Irish)

Monday, May 2

UEFA Development Tournament
Republic of Ireland Under 16 v Hungary, Telki, Hungary, 12:30

EA Sports Cup Quarter-Finals

Bray Wanderers v St Patrick's Athletic, Carlisle Grounds, 15:00
Shelbourne v Shamrock Rovers, Tolka Park, 17:00
Cork City v Derry City, Turner's Cross, 19:45

SSE Airtricity National Under 17 League - Southern Division
Limerick v Cobh Ramblers, Hogan Park, 14:00

FAI Umbro Under 17 Cup Final
Nenagh v Wilton United, Jackman Park, 14:00

Tuesday, May 3

European Championships
Defence Forces v Greece, Eamonn Deacy Park, 11:00 

EA Sports Cup Quarter-Finals
Limerick v Galway United, Markets Field, 19:15

Wednesday, May 4

UEFA Development Tournament
Republic of Ireland Under 16 v Austria, Telki, Hungary, 16:00

Continental Tyres Women's National League
Peamount United v Wexford Youths WFC, Greenogue, 19:30
UCD Waves v Kilkenny United WFC, Jackson Park, 19:45

SSE Airtricity National Under 17 League - Northern Division
Sligo Rovers v Longford Town, The Showgrounds, 19:30

Friday, May 6

European Championships
Defence Forces v France, Fahy's Field, 11:00

UEFA Development Tournament
Republic of Ireland Under 16 v Slovakia, Telki, Hungary, 10:00

SSE Airtricity League Premier Division

St Patrick's Athletic v Derry City, Richmond Park, 19:45

Dundalk v Galway United, Oriel Park, 20:00, Live on Setanta Sports
Finn Harps v Bohemians, Finn Park, 20:00

SSE Airtricity League First Division
Athlone Town v Drogheda United, Athlone Town Stadium, 19:45
Waterford United v UCD, RSC, 19:45

SSE Airtricity National Under 19 League - Southern Division
Cabinteely v UCD, Larkview, 19:45

Saturday, May 7

SSE Airtricity League Premier Division
Bray Wanderers v Cork City, Carlisle Grounds, 19:30
Longford Town v Shamrock Rovers, City Calling Stadium, 19:30
Sligo Rovers v Wexford Youths, The Showgrounds, 19:45

SSE Airtricity League First Division
Cabinteely v Shelbourne, Stradbrook, 15:00
Cobh Ramblers v Limerick, St Colman's Park, 19:15

SSE Airtricity National Under 19 League - Northern Division
Bohemians v Finn Harps, IT Blanchardstown, 14:00
Derry City v Shelbourne, Brandywell Stadium, 14:00
Dundalk v Drogheda United, Oriel Park, 14:00

SSE Airtricity National Under 19 League - Southern Division
Cork City v Waterford United, Bishopstown Stadium, 14:00
Galway United v Limerick, Eamonn Deacy Park, 12:00
Wexford Youths v Cobh Ramblers, Gorey, 15:00

SSE Airtricity National Under 17 League - Northern Division
Athlone Town v Shelbourne, Lisseywollen, 14:00
Finn Harps v Dundalk, Finn Park, 14:00

SSE Airtricity National Under 17 League - Southern Division
Mervue United v Kerry League, Fahy's Field, 14:00
Shamrock Rovers v Cork City, Tallaght Stadium, 14:00

Sunday, May 8

UEFA Development Tournament
Republic of Ireland Women's Under 16 v Slovakia, Buki Sportcentrum, 12:30

Continental Tyres Women's National League
Galway WFC v Wexford Youths WFC, Eamonn Deacy Park, 14:00
Kilkenny United WFC v Peamount United, Buckley Park, 14:00
Shelbourne Ladies FC v Cork City WFC, Morton Stadium, 14:00

SSE Airtricity National Under 19 League - Northern Division
Longford Town v Sligo Rovers, City Calling Stadium, 14:00
St Patrick's Athletic v Athlone Town, IT Blanchardstown, 14:00

SSE Airtricity National Under 17 League - Northern Division
Drogheda United v Derry City, United Park, 14:00

SSE Airtricity National Under 17 League - Southern Division
Bray Wanderers v Waterford United, Carlisle Grounds, 14:00
Cobh Ramblers v Salthill Devon, St Colman's Park, 14:00
Limerick v UCD, Hogan Park, 14:00
Wexford Youths v Cabinteely, Bunclody, 15:00

**All fixtures are correct at time of publication but are subject to change

Ringmahon Rangers 1-3 Ballincollig

In what was a historic all Cork FAI Youths Cup final, played on the immaculate surface in Turners Cross, it was Ballincollig who emerged as the victors in a cracking game of football . The game most certainly lived up to expectations that is for sure.

Given that a large number of Cork’s Youth Inter League squad came from both of these sides, this was always going to be an eagerly awaited and a cracking contest and it most certainly delivered as a spectacle. Both sides like to play an attacking brand of football and this meant that those in attendance were always going to be entertained.

Ringmahon made a rip roaring start to the contest, with the ever reliable Jordan O’Regan going close before Evan O’Brian’s shot rattled the post in the opening minutes. The game was played at a lighting quick pace early on.

Ballincollig also set their stall out in the early stages and it was them who took the lead in the 15th minute. Following a corner kick on the right by Shay Daly, Ronan Barrett’s excellent headed effort found the top left hand corner of the net.

Ringmahon reacted with the never say die attitude they always possess and in the 25th minute, they had a great chance to level, but Christopher Hull’s effort went just over the bar from inside the box.

With 27 minutes on the clock, Ringmahon levelled things up, when Troy O’Sullivan’s glancing header went in via the post. O’Sullivan is a solid centre back, who was captain of the Ireland U18 side against Wales in Waterford recently.

Ballincollig had a great chance to go in at the break ahead through Darren Murphy, but Robbie O’Leary saved well. But as the first half concluded, this cracking contest was on a knife edge.

Early in the second half, Hull headed wide for Ringmahon before Ballincollig’s Whelan was denied by an excellent save by O’Leary.

Just as though it looked like Ringmahon were getting on top, up stepped that man Whelan to slot Ballincollig in front.

Ringmahon applied the pressure for the late stages, with Kearney unable to get a vital touch on a great ball in by Dalton.

Ballincollig needed another goal to ensure victory and they got it through Darren Murphy on the counter attack, as he rounded O’Leary and neatly finished home to spark wild celebrations .

Ringmahon Rangers: Robbie O’Leary; Aaron Quilligan, Mark O’Callaghan, Troy O’Sullivan, Aaron Ahern; Evan O’Brien; Christopher Hull, David Hurley, Gordon O’Meara, Ciaran Kearney; Jordan O’Regan.

Subs: David Dalton for O’Meara 62 , Cameron Harlson for O’Callaghan 85. Cillian Farmer, Caoilte Hayes , Jack McCarthy, Keelyn Cotter (not used).

Ballincollig: Shane Hogan, Shane Dunne, Evan Kenefick, Jordan O’Connor, Stephen Keane; Shay Daly; Finonan O’Donovan, Matthew Whelan, Kevin Crowley, Ronan Barrett; Darren Murphy.

Subs: David Courtney for Dunne 70 , Mark Walsh for Barrett 79,Darren Forde for O’Donovan 89 , Daire O’Leary, Tony Hogan, Nathan O’Callaghan, Eoghan Curran (not used).

Referee: Kevin O’Sullivan.

REPORT By John O’Shea

Top Performer
Shane Duffy (Blackburn Rovers)
The giant centre-back notched in the winning goal to secure Blackburn’s 12th League triumph of the season. He has been a stand-out performer for Paul Lambert’s side this term.

Watch Out For
Brian Lenihan (Hull City)
A first start of the season for this Cork native may have resulted in a narrow defeat, but he did enough to show Hull boss Steve Bruce what he is capable of should he be called upon in the play-offs.

Irish Manager Monitor
In the Championship, Mick McCarthy’s Ipswich Town claimed a 3-2 win over MK Dons, while Brian McDermott’s Reading lost 2-1 to Preston North End. Chris Hughton’s Brighton & Hove Albion are in action on Monday night against Derby County,

In League One, John Sheridan’s Oldham Athletic lost 3-0 away to Millwall to stay on 54 points and four places above the relegation zone.

Further Afield
In the Eredivisie, Jack Byrne scored a superb goal for Cambuur Leeuwarden but they still fell to a 6-2 defeat to PSV, who are joint top with Ajax.

In MLS, Kevin Doyle played the full 90 minutes as Colorado Rapids drew 2-2 away to Montreal Impact to leave them top of the Western Conference.

In the NASL in the United States, Colin Falvey helped Indy Eleven record a 2-1 win away to Rayo OKC as they moved onto eight points from four games played.

In the USL, James O’Connor’s Louisville City – who had Niall McCabe in their line-up –  shared a point with James Chambers’ Bethlehem Steel in a scoreless draw, Bobby Moseley helped San Antonio FC claim a 3-1 win over Tulsa Roughnecks, Derek Foran featured for Sacarmento Republic in their narrow 1-0 loss to Orange County Blues, and Liam Miller played for Wilmington Hammerheads in their 1-1 draw with FC Cincinnati.

Women’s Focus
In England, Stephanie Roche was unable to prevent Sunderland Ladies losing 2-0 to Manchester City Ladies, while Katie McCabe played the full 90 minutes for Arsenal Ladies in their scoreless draw with Birmingham City Ladies.

In Scotland, Savannah McCarthy, Ruesha Littlejohn, and Clare Shine all helped Glasgow City to a 2-0 win over Hibernian Ladies. In Sweden, Louise Quinn started for Eskilstuna United as they lost 3-1 at home to Linkoping. And in Germany, Diane Caldwell’s Koln overcame Turbine Potsdam 3-2.

In the United States, Denise O’Sullivan came off the bench for Houston Dash to make her NWSL debut in a scoreless draw with Sky Blue FC. She becomes the second Irish international to play for the club following in the footsteps of Roche.

Weekend Stats

Premier League
12 appearances– Ciaran Clark, Kevin Toner (Aston Villa), Harry Arter (Bournemouth), Damien Delaney (Crystal Palace), Darron Gibson, James McCarthy (Everton), Robbie Brady, Wes Hoolahan (Norwich City), Shane Long (Southampton), Jonathan Walters, Glenn Whelan (Stoke City), James McClean (West Bromwich Albion)
2 goalscorers– Ciaran Clark (Aston Villa), Shane Long (Southampton)
3 un-used substitutes– Eunan O’Kane (Bournemouth), John O’Shea (Sunderland), Darren Randolph (West Ham United)
1 yellow card– Darron Gibson (Everton)

Championship
24 appearances– Stephen Gleeson (Birmingham City), Shane Duffy, Darragh Lenihan (Blackburn Rovers), Alex Pearce, Derrick Williams (Bristol City), Anthony Pilkington (Cardiff City), Sean Scannell (Huddersfield Town), Brian Lenihan (Hull City), David McGoldrick (Ipswich Town), Samir Carruthers, Kevin Long, Darren Potter (MK Dons), Alan Browne, Greg Cunningham, Eoin Doyle (Preston North End), Josh Barrett, Paul McShane, Stephen Quinn (Reading), Leon Best, Lee Frecklington, Stephen Kelly (Rotherham United), Keiren Westwood (Sheffield Wednesday), Matt Doherty, Joe Mason (Wolverhampton Wanderers)
5 goalscorers– Stephen Gleeson (Birmingham City), Shane Duffy (Blackburn Rovers), David McGoldrick (Ipswich Town), Stephen Quinn (Reading), Joe Mason (Wolverhampton Wanderers)
1 clean sheet– Keiren Westwood (Sheffield Wednesday)
6 un-used substitutes– Jack Bonham (Brentford), Kevin Foley, Adam McDonnell (Ipswich Town), Simon Cox (Reading), Paul Green, Paddy Kenny (Rotherham United)

League One
27 appearances– Conor Hourihane (Barnsley), Colin Doyle (Blackpool), Josh Cullen (Bradford City), Damien McCrory, Anthony O’Connor (Burton Albion), Cian Bolger, John O’Sullivan (Bury), Connor Dimaio, Jay O’Shea (Chesterfield), Owen Garvan (Colchester United), Stephen Hunt (Coventry City), John Egan, Bradley Garmston (Gillingham), Aiden O’Brien (Millwall), Chris Forrester (Peterborough United), Sam Foley, Sam Kelly (Port Vale), Niall Canavan, Donal McDermott (Rochdale), Stephen Dawson, Paddy Madden (Scunthorpe United), Graham Kelly (Sheffield United), Noel Hunt, Stephen McLaughlin, Dave Mooney (Southend United), Anton Rodgers (Swindon Town), Chris McCann (Wigan Athletic)
3 goalscorers– Jay O’Shea (Chesterfield), Paddy Madden (Scunthorpe United), Chris McCann (Wigan Athletic)
8 un-used substitutes– Mark Yeates (Blackpool), Billy Clarke (Bradford City), Callum Reilly (Burton Albion), Ian Lawlor (Bury), Louis Dunne (Colchester United), David Forde (Millwall), Conor Sammon (Sheffield United), Gary Deegan (Southend United)
2 yellow cards– Conor Hourihane (Barnsley), Stephen McLaughlin (Southend United)

League Two
26 appearances– Seamus Conneely (Accrington Stanley), Rory Gaffney (Bristol Rovers), Charles Dunne, Shamir Fenelon, Liam McAlinden, Frankie Sutherland (Crawley Town), Glen Rea, Alan Sheehan (Luton Town), Jamie Devitt, Barry Roche (Morecambe), Mark Byrne (Newport County), James Collins, John-Joe O’Toole (Northampton Town), Graham Burke (Notts County), Callum O’Dowda (Oxford United), Graham Carey, Carl McHugh (Plymouth Argyle), Adam Barton, Michael Doyle, Brian Murphy, Enda Stevens (Portsmouth), Jake Mulraney (Stevenage), Connor Smith (AFC Wimbledon), Michael Harriman (Wycombe Wanderers), James Berrett, Kenny McEvoy (York City)
2 goalscorers– Graham Carey (Plymouth Argyle), Kenny McEvoy (York City)
1 clean sheet– Brian Murphy (Portsmouth)
2 un-used substitutes– Rhys Murphy, Ryan Sweeney (AFC Wimbledon)
2 yellow cards– Carl McHugh (Plymouth Argyle), James Berrett (York City)

National League
8 appearances– Conor Clifford (Boreham Wood), Sean Long (Braintree Town), Harry Crawford (Dover Athletic), Conor Henderson, Pat Hoban (Grimsby Town), Alan Power (Lincoln City), Ritchie Branagan, Neill Byrne (Macclesfield Town)
1 un-used substitute– Josh O’Keefe (Altrincham)

Scottish Premiership
7 appearances– Willo Flood, Jonny Hayes, Adam Rooney (Aberdeen), Richie Foran (Inverness CT), Gary Dicker (Kilmarnock), Graham Cummins, Joe Shaughnessy (St Johnstone)
2 goalscorers– Jonny Hayes, Adam Rooney (Aberdeen)
1 yellow card– Joe Shaughnessy (St Johnstone)

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

Declan Sheridan's side took the lead early on when quick thinking from Jodie Dillon saw him take the ball away from goalkeeper Yannick Germannaud and slot into an empty net.

The visitors left it late to hit back when Antoine Goulard fired in on 81 minutes to level matters and that is how it stayed until the final whistle sounded - providing a relatively fair outcome from a competitive encounter.

Preparations for this tournament were disrupted slightly by the withdrawal of both Greece and Azerbaijan, which forced a change of schedule to pit the Irish outfit against their French counterparts over two legs. 

The winner of this tie will then progress to the European final against the top team from the other group, which contains Germany, Netherlands, Poland and Lithuania, while they will also secure a place at the 2017 World Military Games in Oman.

"I felt that we had the better of the chances overall, but we will take the draw. It gives us a decent chance of qualifying and we can take a lot of positives from this game," said Sheridan.

"The French side were technically excellent and highly motivated. We are well used to playing against them and the last three times we have played them competitively we have come out on the wrong side, so a draw was pleasing from that point of view.

"Regardless of the result though I couldn't be prouder of the lads. They have been outstanding in their commitment to these games and now we are one step closer to qualifying. It's winner takes all on Wednesday."

Sheridan's team will meet the French again on Wednesday at 11:00 at Eamonn Deacy Park, where victory would seal their place in the European final and at the World Military Games.

Irish Defence Forces: K Deegan; Fox, Long, Delaney, Kenny, Dempsey, Friel, Wall, Dillon (J Deegan 62), Gethins (Duffy 82), Gannon (Walsh 71).

French Armed Forces: Germannaud; Trinite, Rossignol, Kamba, Goulard, Dupuis (Jougounoux 59), Abriel, Laplace Palette, Asbabou (Pannier 77), Coulomb, Oggad (Moatti 71).

Paul Osam's side sit joint top of the group after the first day following Slovakia's 2-1 defeat of Austria earlier in the day.

Ireland produced a dynamic display with the pace of their attacking players troubling the Hungarian defence.

The Irish went ahead in the 55th minute when Aaron Bolger produced a cross from the left and St Patrick's Athletic's Luke Nolan volleyed home from close range.

Hungary levelled in the 68th minutes after Horváth Csanád produced an excellent cross for Kevin Csoboth to head home.

Ireland grabbed the winner two minutes from time as Dominic Peppard beat a couple of defenders then broke into the left side of the penalty area and fired in a low shot to snatch the win.

"It was a good win. It was a difficult game against a decent opponent. We started well and created some chances. We'd watched videos of them and felt we could make impact out wide against them. Callum Thompson did well down the left," said Osam.

"We had five or six corners in the first 20 minutes. We went in at half-time comfortable enough and in the second half we did get a bit tired which was a concern.

"We felt we countered well. They had good possession in the second half without creating anything really. We defended well.

"After Hungary equalised we had to defend for our lives but looked good on the counter even in that spell. Dominic Peppard scored an excellent goal.

"Overall we've shown good improvement since the last games against Turkey and were better in the areas that we needed to be better in. We'll prepare for our next game against Austria."

Marc Walsh and Adam Idah were added to the Irish squad for Marcus Rowley and Aaron Connolly who picked up injuries over the weekend.

HUNGARY: Gergely Hutvágner, Dániel Farkas (Ádám Újvárosi 41), Csanád Horváth (András Csonak 79), Balázs Opavszky, Olivér Győri (Dániel Csóka 65), Krisztián Kovács (Dominik Molnár 41), András Lipóth (Kevin Csoboth 59), Krisztofer Szerető, Szabolcs Schön, Olivér Horváth (Dominik Szoboszlai 59), Zoltán Tóth (Tamás Kiss 59).

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND: Brian Maher, Cian Lee, Lee O'Connor, Joe Redmond, Dominic Peppard, Aaron Bolger, Jordan Doherty, Conor Coventry, Rowan Roache, Cian Murphy, Callum Thompson. Subs: Luke Nolan for Roache 53, Cian Hughes for Coventry 53, Adam Idah for Murphy 66, Marc Walsh for Lee 70, Richie O'Farrell for Doherty 70.

RESULTS & FIXTURES

UEFA U16 Development Tournament

Monday, May 2

Hungary 1-2 Republic of Ireland, Telki, Hungary

Wednesday, May 4

Republic of Ireland v Austria, Telki, Hungary (4.00pm Irish)

Friday, May 6

Slovakia v Republic of Ireland, Telki, Hungary (10.00am Irish)

The match-winning goal was scored by winger Daniel Burke when he fired home from a pass by man of the match Barry Coffey with seconds to go before a penalty shoot-out.

Nenagh led twice and Wilton fought back to parity twice at 2-2 to force extra time but it was Tipperary’s Nenagh, who play in the Limerick District League ,who lifted the trophy in a dramatic finish to a game of average quality despite the five goals.

Jake Morris gave Nenagh a 36th minute lead from the spot after Coffey was fouled in the box and they held this advantage to the break.

Wilton made it 1-1 when Lee Cooke scored after keeper Callan Scully had parried a shot by Jordan Murphy just four minutes into the second half.

It was 2-1 to Nenagh three minutes later in the 52nd minute when Barry Coffey netted with a right-footed finish across the keeper Michael Oakes into the far corner.

Wilton fought back a second time to make it 2-2 after 78 minutes when right-back Robert Wyse equaliser shooting low into the far corner past Scully before we had that dramatic climax to the tie and Burke’s match winner at the death.

Nenagh: Callan Scully; Keith Ryan, Eoin Coffey, Jack Dunne, Conor McCarthy; Daniel Burke, Dylan Sheehan, Oisin O’Sullivan, Casey Finn (Morris 29); Bryan McLoughney (O’Brien 81), Barry Coffey.

Wilton United: Michael Oakes; Robert Wyse, Tomas Sheehan, Colm O’Driscoll, Killian Murray; James O’Sullivan, John Weir (Grace 66), Peter O’Driscoll, Karl Walsh (R. Byrne 56); Lee Cooke (Henry (extra-time), Jordan Murphy.

Referee: Michael Rock (Clare).

Kenny Shiels' Derry made the journey down to Turner's Cross and had to fight until the 95th minute when Dean Jarvis' goal ensured their place in the final four of the competition with a 2-1 win.

Fighting is exactly what The Candystripes had to do in their quarter-final as they went behind inside the opening 10 minutes when Mark O'Sullivan fired in for Cork.

A goal on 38 minutes from Barry McNamee settled Derry's nerves somewhat, but they were made to scrap all the way into extra-time for the victory as a youthful Cork side kept up with them.

In Tolka Park, Craig Hyland was the hero for Shamrock Rovers as he saved three penalties in a shoot-out with Shelbourne following a 1-1 draw that went into extra-time and then to spot kicks.

Rovers, who had Rob Cornwall sent off, had to rely on Dean Clarke to net on 62 minutes to keep them in the tie after conceding an own goal from Danny North just before the half hour.

Pat Fenlon's team held their nerve in the shoot-out with Clarke, North, and Patrick Cregg all proving to be successful, but Hyland took all the plaudits for his superb saves.

It was late drama at the Carlisle Grounds as St Patrick's Athletic claimed a 3-2 triumph over Bray Wanderers with Mark Timlin providing the all-important winning goal.

The Cup holders went ahead through Billy Dennehy on 53 minutes but Bray responded within three minutes as Dylan Connolly found the back of the net. Next to strike was Jamie McGrath for the visitors.

But Gareth McDonagh levelled again for Bray, only for Timlin to send Liam Buckley's side into the semi-finals and a step closer to retaining the trophy that they won last year.

The Irish will face Slovakia, Bosnia & Herzegovina and the hosts in the four-team tournament in Bük.

Ireland are preparing for the UEFA WU17 Championships Qualifying Round which will take place in October when we will host a group including Iceland, Belarus and Faroe Islands.

Boyle’s side beat Wales 2-0 and 4-0 in two friendly internationals in Newport earlier this month so will travel to Hungary in good form.

"The expectations would be to try and win all the games if we can and hopefully that the girls will develop and progress to Dave Bell's U17s next season," said Boyle.

"Some of them have already been up there - Tiegan Ruddy, Heather Payne and Sadhbh Doyle  - and it's great to have the three of them back to lead the other girls. They can show what the standard is like at U17 level.

"I wouldn't underestimate the sides we're playing against. They're all developing well and you can see countries like Azerbaijan reaching UEFA WU19 Finals that teams across Europe are making progress.

"All around the park we've a strong group of players to work with. We have players who can play in different positions, which is something we've been working on over the past year.

"We showed with our clean sheets in Wales last month that we're strong defensively and we've worked on shape and not conceding goals but we are also focused on the attacking side of the game.

"We'll train in the FAI National Training Centre on Thursday then fly out to Hungary on Friday. It should be an excellent experience for the squad."

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND WU16 SQUAD:

Erica Turner (Shelbourne Ladies FC)

Aoife Fennell (Shelbourne Ladies FC)

Sadhbh Doyle (Salthill Devon)

Heather Payne (Salthill Devon)

Emma Lawlor (Emo Celtic FC)

Tiegan Ruddy (Peamount United)

Harriet Lambe (Bristol City Academy)

Hannah O'Donoghue (Killarney Celtic)

Lauryn Grier (Kentstown Rovers FC)

Amy Boyle Carr (Donegal Town FC)

Bethany Fensom Carroll (Piltown AFC)

Megan MacKey (Chelsea Ladies FC)

Tyler Toland (Maiden City)

Aoife Lynagh (Salthill Devon)

Carla McManus (Bealnamulla FC)

Gillian Keenan (Emo Celtic FC)

Tara Cully (Shelbourne Ladies FC)

Rachel Baynes (Castlebar Celtic)

Keelin McEntee (Peamount United)

Sally Kelly (Tramore FC)

FIXTURES

UEFA Women's U16 Development Tournament

Sunday, May 8

Republic of Ireland v Slovakia, Bük, Hungary (12.30pm Irish)

Tuesday, May 10

Bosnia & Herzegovina v Republic of Ireland, Bük, Hungary (12.30pm Irish)

Thursday, May 12

Hungary v Republic of Ireland, Bük, Hungary (9.00am Irish)

The other semi-final will see record winners Derry City take on SSE Airtricity League First Division leaders Limerick with the games scheduled take place on Monday, August 1.

The draw was made at FAI HQ, but kick-off times are yet to be confirmed for what promises to be an action-packed day of Cup football.

After getting through tricky quarter-final ties the final four teams will now have their sights set on reaching the EA Sports Cup final on Saturday, September 17.

EA Sports Cup Semi-Finals
Derry City v Limerick
Shamrock Rovers v St Patrick's Athletic

*Ties to be played on Monday, August 1

Paul Osam's side conceded two goals in the final 14 minutes to end up on the losing side but the Irish can still win the group if they beat Slovakia in their final game on Friday and the Hungary-Austria fixture ends in a draw.

Adam Idah had a header just off target in the best chance of a scrappy opening half and the Irish had a solid chance to open the scoring early in the second half when Idah had the ball in the Austrian net but the effort was ruled out for offside.

It was Idah once more in the right place at the right time when he connected with a Ryan Burke cross after the Austrians half-cleared an Irish corner but this time his header was blocked by the goalkeeper.

To complete the drama Idah was so unlucky when he produced an excellent turn and strike that saw the ball cannon back off the base of the Austrian upright.

Austria punished the Irish for not taking their chances when Matteo Meisl arrived at the back post to control and fire the opener in the 66th minute.

To compound matters the second Austrian goal came in the 76th minute when Christophe Klarer converted with a free header after Idah was off the pitch with an injury and the Irish were not allowed bring a substitute on before the kick was taken.

"We were on top at the time of the opening goal but it's always the case in international football that you have to take their chances when they come," said Irish coach Osam.

"Their opening goal was decent for them but disappointing for us, as any goal you concede is.

"We may not have deserved to win overall but we probably did not deserve to lose. All four teams are on three points now so it sets things up for an interesting end to the tournament on Friday.

"The positives are definitely creating the chances. The first half wasn’t so bad but we could have been better. We had worked on getting crosses into the box as we felt that could create chances for us and unfortunately we couldn’t convert them.

"We will focus on Friday’s game now and will look hopefully finish the tournament on a high with a good performance."

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND: Lorcan Callaghan, Luke Nolan, Joe Redmond (Cian Lee 41), Kameron Ledwidge, Ryan Burke, Jack Connolly (Aaron Bolger 53), Richie O’Farrell (Rowan Roache 67), Jordan Doherty (Lee O’Connor 41), Marc Walsh (Callum Thompson 53), Adam Idah (Cian Murphy 67), Cian Hughes (Dominic Peppard 75).

FIXTURES & RESULTS

UEFA U16 Development Tournament

Monday, May 2

Hungary 1-2 Republic of Ireland, Telki, Hungary

Wednesday, May 4

Republic of Ireland 0-2 Austria, Telki, Hungary

Friday, May 6

Slovakia v Republic of Ireland, Telki, Hungary (10.00am Irish)

The two teams finished last Monday's first meeting with a similar scoreline but the tie had to be settled this time and it was Declan Sheridan's side who came up just short.

Goalkeeper Yannick Germannaud proved to the hero for the visitors as he saved spot kicks from Craig Short and David Long to seal a 4-2 shoot-out win and send his team through to the European finals.

Sheridan, though, had every reason to be proud of his team over the course of the two games as they pushed a very skilled outfit all the way and played some terrific football.

The game could hardly have started better for the hosts as captain Chris Kenny headed in the opening goal on three minutes following good work by Long.

The French hit back on 25 minutes when Antoine Goulard managed to notch the ball past goalkeeper Aidan Brown, but that did not deter the Irish who continued to battle for the upper hand.

A positive reaction allowed Sheridan's men to push their opponents onto the back foot on numerous occasions and force the game into extra-time, but nobody could seize advantage during that period.

So it all came down to penalties. Brown did pull off a fine save to deny Cedric Rossignol but the French were clinical with their remaining kicks and that made all the difference - aligned with Germannud's heroics.

Irish Defence Forces: Brown; Fox, Long, Delaney, Kenny, Short (Dempsey h-t), Stack, Wall, Dillon (Deegan 63), Finlay (Walsh h-t), Friel.

France Armed Forces: Germmanud; Trinite, Rossignol, Goulard, Dupuis, Pouverean (Kaimba h-t), Coulomb, Moatti (Gallo 63), Pannier, Jougounoux (Asbabou 105), Laplace Palette.

This will be Mohan's first game since being appointed as Republic of Ireland U19 Head Coach and although he is working with a younger age-group, these players will all be eligible for next season's UEFA U19 Championships qualifiers which saw Ireland drawn in Group 4 with Germany, group hosts Albania and Gibraltar.

These fixtures take place in October so Mohan is pleased to have the opportunity to work with these players in preparation for the campaign ahead.

"It's very strong opposition and great opportunity for players to test themselves against top class opposition. The Germans proved their quality last year by reaching the UEFA Championship Final and they also beat France in a friendly last month winning 4-1," said Mohan.

"We play them in the UEFA qualifiers next year so perhaps it's not ideal but you take it for what it is. That's five months away and a lot can happen in football in that time.

"It's testament to this group pf players that teams like England and Germany wanted to play them. A lot of our underage sides are being invited to play big nations, which is what we want."

Mohan led this age-group to the UEFA U17 Championships Final tournament in Bulgaria last year so he is well aware of the talent in this group of players.

"I've a good understanding of this group of players but others will come onto the radar as well. This fixture is an added bonus with five months to prepare for the UEFA qualifiers," he said.

"We'll try see as many games as we can over the coming months - whether its Under 19 and first team games here in Ireland or going to the UK to watch players at various levels.

"A lot of them are progressing well at their clubs, playing Under 21 level in UK or first team level here in Ireland. It is good to see Under 18 players like Trevor Clarke at Shamrock Rovers doing well at first team level in our league in recent weeks."

Republic of Ireland Under 18 Squad
Goalkeepers: Caoimhin Kelleher (Liverpool), Mark Travers (Unattached)
Defenders: Corey O'Keefe (Birmingham City), Jonathan Lunney (Preston North End), Declan Rice (West Ham United), Dara O'Shea (West Bromwich Albion), Robert McCourt (West Bromwich Albion), Canice Carroll (Oxford United), Luke Wade-Slater (Stevenage)
Midfielders: Conor Levingston (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Liam Brady (Stevenage), Connor Ronan (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Conor Masterson (Liverpool), Daniel Mandriou (Brighton & Hove Albion), Zachary Elbouzedi (West Bromwich Albion)
Forwards: Josh Barrett (Reading), Trevor Clarke (Shamrock Rovers), Ronan Hale (Birmingham City)

Wednesday, May 11
Under 18 International Friendly

Germany v Republic of Ireland, Stadion Am Sommerdamm, Rüsselsheim am Main (10.00am Irish time)

Tuesday, May 10

UEFA Development Tournament
Republic of Ireland Women's Under 16 v Bosnia & Herzegovina, Buk, Hungary, 12:30 

SSE Airtricity League Premier Division
Bohemians v Cork City, Dalymount Park, 19:45
Derry City v Finn Harps, Brandywell Stadium, 20:00, Live on Setanta Sports
Dundalk v Bray Wanderers, Oriel Park, 19:45
Galway United v St Patrick's Athletic, Eamonn Deacy Park, 19:45
Longford Town v Wexford Youths, City Calling Stadium, 20:00
Shamrock Rovers v Sligo Rovers, Tallaght Stadium, 20:00

SSE Airtricity National Under 17 League - Northern Division
Bohemians v St Patrick's Athletic, Oscar Traynor Centre, 19:30

Wednesday, May 11

International Friendly
Germany v Republic of Ireland Under 18, Stadion Am Sommerdamm, Russelsheim am Main, 10:00

Continental Tyres Women's National League
Shelbourne Ladies v Wexford Youths WFC, Tolka Park, 19:00

SSE Airtricity National Under 19 League - Southern Division
Wexford Youths v Cobh Ramblers, Ferrycarrig Park, 19:00

Spar FAI Primary 5s National Finals
Various Qualifiers, Aviva Stadium, 11:30

Thursday, May 12

UEFA Development Tournament
Republic of Ireland Women's Under 16 v Hungary, Buk, Hungary, 9:00

Friday, May 13

SSE Airtricity League Premier Division

Cork City v Derry City, Turner's Cross, 19:45
Finn Harps v Dundalk, Finn Park, 20:00
St Patrick's Athletic v Longford Town, Richmond Park, 20:00, Live on Setanta Sports
Wexford Youths v Shamrock Rovers, Ferrycarrig Park, 20:00

SSE Airtricity League First Division
Drogheda United v Shelbourne, United Park, 19:45
Limerick v Athlone Town, Markets Field, 19:15
UCD v Cobh Ramblers, UCD Bowl, 19:45
Waterford United v Cabinteely, RSC, 19:45

Saturday, May 14

SSE Airtricity League Premier Division
Bray Wanderers v Galway United, Carlisle Grounds, 19:30
Sligo Rovers v Bohemians, The Showgrounds, 19:45

SSE Airtricity National Under 19 League - Northern Division
Athlone Town v Derry City, Lisseywollen, 14:00
Bohemians v Shelbourne, IT Blanchardstown, 12:00
Drogheda United v St Patrick's Athletic, United Park, 12:00
Finn Harps v Longford Town, Finn Park, 14:00

SSE Airtricity National Under 19 League - Southern Division
Cork City v Cobh Ramblers, Bishopstown Stadium, 14:00
UCD v Wexford Youths, Belfield, 14:00
Waterford United v Shamrock Rovers, RSC, 14:00

SSE Airtricity National Under 17 League - Northern Division
Derry City v Athlone Town, Brandywell Stadium, 14:00
Monaghan-Cavan v Drogheda United, Gortakeegan, 14:00
Shelbourne v Sligo Rovers, Tolka Park, 14:00

SSE Airtricity National Under 17 League - Southern Division
Salthill Devon v Shamrock Rovers, Drom, 14:00
Waterford United v Wexford Youths, TBC, 14:00

FAI Junior Cup Final
Pike Rovers v Sheriff YC, Aviva Stadium, 16:00

FAI Umbro Intermediate Cup Final
Letterkenny Rovers v Crumlin United, Aviva Stadium, 19:00

Sunday, May 15

Continental Tyres Women's National League Cup Final
Shelbourne Ladies v UCD Waves, Richmond Park, 15:00

SSE Airtricity National Under 19 League - Northern Division
Sligo Rovers v Dundalk, The Showgrounds, 14:00

SSE Airtricity National Under 19 League - Southern Division
Bray Wanderers v Galway United, Carlisle Grounds, 14:00
Limerick v Cabinteely, Hogan Park, 14:00

SSE Airtricity National Under 17 League - Northern Division
Longford Town v Bohemians, City Calling Stadium, 14:00
St Patrick's Athletic v Finn Harps, IT Blanchardstown, 14:00

SSE Airtricity National Under 17 League - Southern Division
Cabinteely v Kerry League, Larkview, 14:00
Cobh Ramblers v Cork City, St Colman's Park, 14:00
Limerick v Bray Wanderers, Carew Park, 14:00
UCD v Mervue United, Belfield, 14:00

**All fixtures are correct at time of publication but are subject to change