Eddie Bailham passed away aged 75 and had lived most recently in Surrey. He is survived by his wife Ruth, three children and five grandchildren..

The Dubliner won one international cap against England in a 3-1 loss at Dalymount Park in May 1964. His Ireland colleagues included Joe Haverty, Tony Dunne, John Giles, Andy McEvoy and Noel Cantwell while England's line-up included Bobby Moore, Jimmy Greaves and Bobby Charlton.

A prolific forward, Dundrum native Eddie was a club mate of John Giles at Manchester United and played for Home Farm before making his League of Ireland debut with Cork Hibernians in 1959.

He became a very popular player with Shamrock Rovers after signing for the Hoops in 1960 and twice finished top scorer in the League of Ireland. He helped the club to the league and FAI Cup double in 1964, scoring twice in the final against Cork Celtic, and also starred in the 1962 FAI Cup Final win over Shelbourne.

Eddie made regular appearances in Europe with Rovers and stood out with the League of Ireland representative squad including a goal in a famous 2-1 defeat of the English League in October 1963.

After his impressive spell with Rovers he moved to the UK and was amongst the highest scoring players in non-league football with Cambridge City (two spells), Worcester FC, Wimbledon FC, Bexley United and Chesham United..

"Eddie Bailham was a great Irish football name from the 1960s and we are saddened to learn of his death this week. Our thoughts are with his family and we will pay tribute to him at the Wales international in March," said FAI CEO John Delaney.

Huge strides have been made in football development in the Banner County with FAI Football Development Officer Denis Hynes doing superb work and the backing of the County Council has been vital.

Competing against the Leinster Senior League, Donie Garrihy's side came out as 5-2 victors in a memorable final that saw David McCarthy net four times as Clare won the competition for the only second time in their history.

To mark that fantastic achievement, the County Council hosted a Civic Reception for the team and the backroom staff, which was attended by Cllr Gerry Flynn, Cllr Pat McMahon, Cllr Ann Norton, Cllr Joe Cooney, Cllr John Crowe and Cllr PJ Ryan.

Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, Bill Chambers spoke passionately about the team's success as well as remembering the late Frank Healy and Jimmy Rocks, who gave so much to football development in Clare.

It was a good night with the team getting the recognition that they deserved and also an opportunity to remind everyone of how strong Clare football has become in recent years.

The FAI has been in discussions with the PCA, and their legal representative Michael Cush SC, over recent months regarding all aspects of the SSE Airtricity League.

At the end of the 2017 season, the First Division champions will be promoted, while the bottom three teams in the Premier Division will be relegated.

Over the last two years, the FAI Board has placed the future of the SSE Airtricity League at the top of its list of priorities by commissioning two independent reports, to look at the overall structure of the League (Consultation Process Report) and the League as a Brand (Branding Review Report).

From the Consultation Process Report, a number of recommendations have started to be implemented, including:

• Aiding clubs with Strategic/Business Plans
• Focus on Facility Development
• Recruitment of a Marketing Executive
• Establishment of a Marketing Group with club representation
• Restructuring of the League format
• New official SSE Airtricity League website for 2017 season

The next meeting with Michael Cush and the PCA will take place on January 16.

Below are the fixtures for the 2017 SSE Airtricity League season...

2017_Season_SSE_Airtricity_League_Premier_Division_Fixture_List.pdf

2017_Season_SSE_Airtricity_League_First_Division_Fixture_List.pdf

*Fixtures for the Under 19 and Under 17 Leagues will be revealed in due course

The successful candidate will work closely with other internal departments ensuring brand, communication and marketing are in line with the FAI Strategy 2016 – 2020 and are linked with the SSE Airtricity League Strategy. You will report directly to the Competitions Director whilst working closely with the Communications Team and Marketing Team ensuring consistency in approach.

The main objectives of this role:

• Strong stakeholder management with SSE Airtricity Clubs and their marketing point of contact.
• Deliver a marketing strategy and implementation plan specifically for the SSE Airtricity League that is in line with the League’s Strategy and objectives and the FAI’s Strategy 2016 - 2020 whilst working

  closely with all key stakeholders.

• Marketing point of contact for the 20 Clubs around the country in relation to FAI marketing project

  initiative(s), sharing knowledge, experience whilst supporting them to achieve their marketing

  strategy and to deliver this at Club level.

• Support all Clubs in the design and delivery stages of their marketing plan that increases brand

  awareness and attendance figures at matches with a focus on greater community links. Provide

  guidance, advice and recommendations on current model.

• Further develop the SSE Airtricity League brand through dedicated marketing activities and

  providing structure.

• Develop metrics and key performance indicators (KPIs) in order to provide regular reports to the

  League Director and National League Executive Committee.

  Key Responsibilities/Objectives:

  • Responsible for the delivery of the overall marketing plan for SSE Airtricity League including digital and PR.
  • Act as the main point of contact for all SSE Airtricity League club marketing personnel including organising and presenting to 3/4 SSE Airtricity League marketing meetings each season.
  • Audit current practices at Club level and advise on gaps, solutions and propose recommendation(s).
  • Responsible for ensuring all SSE Airtricity League Clubs have a marketing plan in place each year that is approved by the Association and is in line with both Strategies.

FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION OF IRELAND

SSE Airtricity League Marketing Executive Job Description

• Increase SSE Airtricity digital activities in collaboration with the Communications Department and the Marketing Team across all major social media platforms including website management.
• Implement marketing initiatives e.g. market research, ticket promotions and digital marketing campaigns.
• Achieve KPIs in areas of attendance and brand at all SSE Airtricity League games.
• Responsible for the creation and delivery of all SSE Airtricity League creative assets to clubs.
• Responsible for ensuring all SSE Airtricity League Clubs achieve their marketing

  commitments, KPI’s and overall objectives.

• Responsible for the SSE Airtricity League Clubs community programmes delivery and KPIs.

  THE PERSON: The successful candidate will have the following:

  Experience

• 3-5 year’s professional experience of working in a similar position in marketing preferably in a sports environment.
• 2-3 year’s people management experience, an advantage.
• Experience in dealing with Senior Management, Director to CEO level.
• Proven track record of delivering high profile, innovative marketing campaigns that have delivered

  results and achieved business objectives.

• Experience in Marketing/Brand/PR and promotion of events.
• Experience with digital marketing/solid analytics and analysis.
• Experience in developing, managing and executing integrated marketing strategies and tactical

  plans.

• Experience in project management and delivery of KPIs.

  Education

  • Third Level Degree preferred in Marketing, Business, Sports Management or equivalent.
  • A recognised Project Management qualification an advantage.

    Abilities, skills and knowledge

    • Strong in Strategy design, development and delivery.
    • Solid understanding of Club and League Structures at a National Level – SSE Airtricity.
    • Resilient with the ability to manage and influence key stakeholders.
    • Energetic personality – driven to achieve results, solution focused and delivering

      consistently.

    • Excellent administrative and organisational skills with the ability to prioritise and to manage

      and meet deadlines.

    • Strong interpersonal skills with ability to establish relationships both internally and

      externally at all levels.

FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION OF IRELAND

SSE Airtricity League Marketing Executive Job Description

• Ability to interact with sensitivity, efficiency and professionalism with different stakeholders.
• Expert in the marketing field, innovative and solution-oriented.
• Creative, innovative, proactive and pragmatic.
• Competent Intermediate to Advanced Level with Microsoft Office Package in particular

  Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook.

• Excellent communication skills both verbal and written.
• Strong and credible presentation skills, both in the preparation of user-friendly, convincing

  and contextualised presentations and in their presentation delivery. 

Location: FAI HQ, Abbotstown, Dublin 15

Direct Reporting Line To: Competitions Director

Commencement Date: ASAP

Salary: Up to €40,000 dependent on Experience & Qualifications Fixed Term Contract – initial 12 month contract

Duration: Fixed Term Contract Contract - initial 12 month contract 
Process of application is via the careers page on the FAI website at www.fai.ie/careers

Closing date for receipt of applications is 5pm on Friday 6th January 2017. Candidates that are shortlisted for interview will be expected to be available week of 9th January 2017, exact date to be confirmed.

The Football Association of Ireland is an equal opportunities employer. 

Ahead of the release of our end of year review with Martin O'Neill, the Ireland manager tells FAI TV his favourite moment from the Green Army in France.

Check out his choice below and don't forget to subscribe to FAI TV for free on YouTube to get the latest videos first. 

2016 was a year to remember for the Irish team with a thrilling UEFA EURO 2016 campaign and a place on top of our FIFA World Cup Qualifying group table. 

Darragh McGinley from FAI TV sat down with Ireland boss Martin O'Neill where the manager reflected on the highs and lows of the year just gone.

O'Neill discusses in-depth the journey through UEFA EURO 2016, the new leaders within the squad and his various highlights throughout the year. Watch the full version of the intruiging interview below: 

Applications are being sought from sports clubs, voluntary and community groups, national governing bodies of sport and local authorities.  Third level colleges, Education and Training Boards and schools may only apply for funding jointly with sports clubs.

Since 2014, 230 clubs and leagues around the country received €11,738,167 in funding for numerous projects. Amongst the projects funded in 2015 were the AUL (€160k), Athlone Town (€200k), Salthill Devon (€20k) and North Tipperary Schoolchildren's League (€200k).

What you can apply for:

• Natural grass sports pitches, tracks and courts (including pitch drainage)

• Floodlighting

• Artificial sports pitches, tracks, courts and multi-use games areas

• Security fencing, ball stop netting and goal posts

• Building or refurbishment of dressing rooms, showers and toilets

• Building or refurbishment of sports halls and gyms

• Modifications to sports facilities to improve access for people with disabilities.

• Non-personal sports equipment including gym equipment1 , lawn mowers and defibrillators. Anything set in the ground (such as goal posts) is not considered equipment.

• Any other capital projects that are clearly sporting in nature and that will increase participation in sport or improve performance

Applications can be made from 9am on Monday, January 23, at www.sportscapitalprogramme.ie.

The deadline for registration is 5pm on Friday, February 10, 2017. If your organisation is not registered on OSCAR (Online Sports Capital Register) by 5pm on February 10, 2017, you will not be able to make an application. If your organisation has already registered, you do not need to register again.

The deadline for applications is 5pm on Friday, February 24, 2017.The online system will be shut down at this time and no late or partial applications will be accepted.

 For details on how to register or apply for the 2017 Sports Capital Programme please go to https://www.sportscapitalprogramme.ie/  

Shelbourne Ladies dominated the season, completing an impressive league and cup double for the first time in their history. 

The awards ceremony for the season will take place on Thursday, January 12th at the Guinness Storehouse at 12.30pm, with two Shelbourne players nominated for Senior Player of the Year. Leanne Kiernan, who scored an impressive hat-trick in the Women’s Senior Cup final against Wexford Youths, takes her place next to team-mate Noelle Murray and Republic of Ireland international Karen Duggan for the prestigious award. 

Galway’s Sadhbh Doyle and Peamount’s Roma McLaughlin goes up against Kiernan for the Young Player of the Year award whilst Peamount striker Amber Barrett will be presented with the Irish Daily Mail Golden Boot award after scoring 16 goals during the 2016 campaign.

The 2016 Team of the Year features five Shelbourne Ladies players as well as three UCD Waves players, Roma McLaughlin and Amber Barrett from Peamount United and Chloe Moloney from Galway WFC. 

The nominations for the awards are as follows: 

SENIOR PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Leanne Kiernan (Shelbourne Ladies)

Noelle Murray (Shelbourne Ladies)

Karen Duggan (UCD Waves)

YOUNG PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Sadhbh Doyle (Galway WFC)

Leanne Kiernan (Shelbourne Ladies)

Roma McLaughlin (Peamount United)

IRISH DAILY MAIL GOLDEN BOOT

Amber Barrett (Peamount United)

2016 CONTINENTAL TYRES TEAM OF THE SEASON

Amanda McQuillan (Shelbourne Ladies)

Jetta Berrill (UCD Waves)

Pearl Slattery (Shelbourne Ladies)

Chloe Moloney (Galway WFC)

Niamh Prior (UCD Waves)

Karen Duggan (UCD Waves)

Roma McLaughlin (Peamount United)

Noelle Murray (Shelbourne Ladies)

Leanne Kiernan (Shelbourne Ladies)

Amber Barrett (Peamount United)

Siobhan Killeen (Shelbourne Ladies)

The Irish youngsters will travel to the Netherlands to face their hosts in fixtures on Tuesday, January 31 (3.00pm Irish), and Thursday, February 2 (2.00pm Irish), for games at the KNVB training centre in Zeist.

Donohue and his staff will continue to work with the Irish players through this month to ensure they are prepared for the meetings with their Dutch counterparts. The Irish drew 0-0 and lost 2-1 in two games against Poland at this age group in November.

"With most of the players' club seasons transitioning to operating in the calendar year format from now on we had to put a plan in place to keep the players ticking over during January in particular," said Donohue.

"With the cooperation of the clubs, leagues and the SFAI's assistance with All-Ireland cup fixtures, we're bringing them in each weekend in January in preparation for the double-header against the Netherlands.

"We are using this as an opportunity to further look at players who played against Poland and after a centre of excellence assessment day over Christmas we have also made six changes from the squad that played in those games. Players were rewarded for good performances in the ETP programme.

"Within the weekends training in January we've analysed the Netherlands and we're working on applying our principles of play within the four functions - defending, attacking and the transitions. Within that we've organised a training game against Paul Osam's Ireland U16 squad and they will help us by setting up to play as we expect the Netherlands to play. That'll help the players prepare for the demands of the games they'll face in the double-header.

"Our objective in the Poland games was to make sure we could build out from the back competently and against Netherlands and we'll try to progress that now and look to improve our play from midfield and in the final third while also keeping a good defensive structure."

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND U15 SQUAD:
Conor Carty (St Francis FC)
Aaron Davies (Ratoath Harps)
Alex Dunne (Belvedere FC)
Ayodeji Sotona (Manchester United)
Jack Funge (St Kevin?s Boys FC)
James Furlong (St Joseph's Boys FC)
Armstrong Okoflex (Arsenal)
Harry Halwax (Leixlip United FC)
Brandon Holt (Belvedere FC)
Cian Kelly (St Joseph's Boys FC)
Sean Kennedy (Tralee Dynamos FC)
Seamus Keogh (Benbulben FC)
Kian Leavy (St. Francis FC)
Matthew Healy (College Corinthians)
Sean McEvoy (St Kevin?s Boys FC)
Troy Parrott (Belvedere FC)
Timi Sobowale (Villa FC)
Cormac Moore (St Francis FC)

FIXTURES
U15 International Friendly
Tuesday, January 31
Netherlands v Republic of Ireland, KNVB Training Centre, Zeist (3.00pm Irish)

Thursday, February 2
Netherlands v Republic of Ireland, KNVB Training Centre, Zeist (2.00pm Irish)

Dessie passed away aged 88 in the United States, where he had lived for many years. He moved there to coach in New York before settling in Pennsylvania.

He won two Ireland caps - scoring on his debut against West Germany at Dalymount Park in 1951 and also appearing against Norway in Oslo four years later. His former Ireland colleagues included Con Martin, Frank O'Farrell, Alf Ringstead, Sean Fallon, Tommy Eglington and Arthur Fitzsimons.

The Dubliner's youth career included spells with Johnville and Clifton United before he proved himself a prolific striker with Drumcondra and Shelbourne. He bagged 111 League of Ireland goals before illness ended his career in 1958.

He won the League of Ireland title with Drumcondra in 1949 and played in two FAI Cup finals. He helped Drums beat St Patrick's Athletic in the 1954 and scored a penalty in the semi-final as  Drumcondra progressed to the 1955 final where they were beaten by Shamrock Rovers.

FAI Chief Executive John Delaney paid tribute to Glynn this afternoon.

“We are saddened to learn of the passing of former international Dessie Glynn. He has the honour of representing his country and scoring on the international stage and I’m sure his family were very proud of his achievements in the game. We will pay our respects to Dessie at the forthcoming World Cup qualifier against Wales,” he said.

The programme involved almost 24,000 students last year with over 1,200 schools participating. The competition has been running since the mid 1990s and the programme promises to be bigger and better than ever this year. 

FAI Schools are delighted to announce that the National Finals will be hosted in the spectacular surrounds of the Aviva Stadium again this year. It could be your School in the National Finals on May 31, so sign up now for your chance to go all the way and create a day to remember for your School and its students.

This magnificent competition is for kids in 4th, 5th and 6th class and it all begins at your local county level. The events are a fantastic opportunity for girls and boys to participate in a fun filled one day blitz. There are six sections (3 for boys and 3 for girls) to cater for all school sizes so whether your school falls into the small, medium or large category there is a competition to cater for you. 

Visit http://www.fai.ie/primary5 TO REGISTER NOW

REGISTRATION PROCESS & PAYMENT

Please register your school now at www.fai.ie/primary5

Schools should forward a cheque for €50 made payable to FAI SCHOOLS to your relevant Provincial Organiser:

Munster: Mr. Gerard Duggan, St. Mary’s BNS, Ferrybank, Co. Waterford

Ulster: Mr. Martin Robins, 51 Ard Colgan, Carndonagh, Inishowen, Co. Donegal

Connacht: Mr. Noel Dervan, Lisaniskey NS, Ballydooley PO,Donamon, Co. Roscommon

Leinster: Mr. Tom Bolger, St. Bernadette’s SNS, Quarryvale, Dublin 22

Schools will not be allowed to participate until the online application form and entry fee has been received.

If you wish to make an amendment to your entry, please do not submit a second application. Amendments can be made by emailing primaryschools@fai.ie  

Each participating school will receive one complimentary football for entering the competition. You will receive this on the day of your local competition.

CLOSING DATES

Please note that this year we have one single closing date for all counties, the closing date is strictly Friday, February 17 at 5pm and no late applications will be accepted. 

For further information on the programme please email primaryschools@fai.ie. 

Murray enjoyed a fantastic season in the Women’s National League, helping Shelbourne claim their first League and Cup double. Team-mate Leanne Kiernan claimed Young Player of the Year after a starring season which included a hat-trick in the Women’s Senior Cup final where Shels claimed a 5-0 victory over Wexford Youths.

Peamount United striker Amber Barrett picked up her Irish Daily Mail Golden Boot award after 16 goals for Peas, helping them claim third-place in the Women’s National League. 

After receiving the award, Murray credited the Shelbourne squad and staff for a fantastic season, and believes the club can push on in the UEFA Women’s Champions League next season.

Murray said: “It’s a great feeling to be named Senior Player of the Year and delighted to pick up the award. 

“It’s definitely the best moment of my career so far and it’s been a great year for me with this fantastic Shelbourne team. I couldn’t have done it without them so a big thanks has to go to all my team-mates and staff.

“The youth the football club has produced and is currently producing is unbelievable. I’m sure Shelbourne will continue to grow from strength to strength in the Champions League next season.”

The Continental Tyres Women’s National League Team of the Year also received their awards which included five Shelbourne players as well as three from UCD Waves, Amber Barrett and Roma McLaughlin from Peamount United and Chloe Moloney from Galway WFC.

The full Continental Tyres Women’s National League Team of the Year is as follows:

Amanda McQuillan (Shelbourne Ladies), Jetta Berrill (UCD Waves), Pearl Slattery (Shelbourne Ladies), Chloe Moloney (Galway WFC), Niamh Prior (UCD Waves), Karen Duggan (UCD Waves), Roma McLaughlin (Peamount United), Noelle Murray (Shelbourne Ladies), Leanne Kiernan (Shelbourne Ladies), Amber Barrett (Peamount United), Siobhan Killeen (Shelbourne Ladies).

CISM is the International Military Sports Council and brings together representatives of defence forces from across the world in a number of sports. The football section moved from the World Military Games to its own international competition in recent years.

After coming through the qualifying campaign last year, the Irish side heads to Muscat anticipating a tough group which features Qatar, the USA and Mali.

Speaking at the FAI National Training Centre last week when meeting of the squad with Minister for Defence Paul Kehoe and FAI CEO John Delaney, the Irish team manager Captain Ian Snee was positive that his side can go to Oman and make a good impression.

"It's a great honour and achievement to get to this position. Our first game is against Mali on Tuesday and we know it'll be a tough start. We then play Qatar who beat us in India a few years ago and have professional players in their set-up," he said.

"The US is the final game and they have a lot of players they brought in with college soccer experience.

"I'm confident we have the ability to get out of our group. Our team captain Chris Kenny recently signed for Sligo Rovers which is great for himself.

"We got great support from the FAI in terms of training facilities and we're looking forward to heading to the tournament, representing their country and winning an international cap so it’s a great opportunity for them."

IRELAND DEFENCE FORCES SQUAD:

Derek Walsh (Usher Celtic. AUL)

Stephen Whelan (St Paul’s Artane, AUL)

Craig Shortt (Birr Town, CCFL)

Ian Lordan (Greenwood FC, Cork AUL)

Craig Wall (Freebooters, Kilkenny & District League)

Sean Gannon (Dublin Central FC, LSL)

Darren Kelly (Cherry Orchard, LSL)

Richard Barber (St James Gate, LSL)

Kenneth Deegan (Newbridge Town, LSL)

Keith Duffy (Ballina Town, Mayo AFL)

Ross MacCarthy (Youghal United AFC, Munster SL)

David Stack (Cobh Wanderers, Munster SL)

Mark Horgan (Avondale, Munster SL)

Michael O’Shea (Cobh Wanderers, Munster SL)

David Sweeney (Ballincollig, Munster SL)

Sean Guerins (BT Harps, North Tipperary DL)

Shane Dempsey (Wexford Youths)

Chris Kenny (Sligo Rovers)

Philip Gorman (Waterford FC)

Aidan Friel (Longford Town)

Ricky Fox (Shamrock Rovers, Wexford FL)

FIXTURES

Tuesday, January 17

Ireland v Mali (1.00pm Irish)

Thursday, January 19

Ireland v Qatar (1.00pm Irish)

Saturday, January 21

USA v Ireland (1.00pm Irish)

First up for the Girls in Green is a game against Portugal on Tuesday, with a clash with the Netherlands to come later in the week.

The chance to play two sides who will also be in Elite Phase action is the perfect preparation and an opportunity Connell says he couldn’t let slip by.

‘It’s the first time we’ve had the opportunity to play games against teams of this calibre at this time of the year so it was an opportunity we couldn’t turn down.

‘Portugal and the Netherlands will be ideal preparation for the Elite Phase games in April. They both have a similar style to what we’ll come up against,’ said Connell.

Connell, who is aiming to guide a third different women's team to a UEFA finals tournament, is relishing tomorrow’s challenge, and the chance to fine-tune his squad ahead of the Elite Phase opener against Scotland.

‘Games against Portugal are always close. They are are strong, technical team and it will be a decent test for us,’ he added.

 Playing time for as many of the squad as possible is a priority with two games in close succession, as the Ireland head coach aims to give his players the chance to impress.

‘We are accutely aware it’s just the start of pre-season for the majority of our players, so it will be a good chance for us to use our squad as a whole,’ Connell concluded. 

Portugal WU19 v Republic of Ireland WU19 - Kick-off 2pm. 

Following a tight opening period, the Girls in Green finally broke the deadlock in the 27th minute. Leanne Kiernan, who was named the Continental Tyres Women’s National League Young Player of the Year last week,  latched on to a sublime through ball from Roma McLaughlin to finish into the far corner of the net.

It was Kiernan again who doubled Ireland’s advantage on the stroke of half time, finishing on the rebound after Alex Kavanagh’s initial shot was parried by the Portugeuse goalkeeper, Ines Pereira.

Ireland had to wait until the 82nd minute to add to their tally. An inviting free kick from wide on the left, whipped in by Tiegan Ruddy, was met at the back post by a brilliant header from Chloe Moloney.

There was still time for a relentless Ireland to find a fourth as Dearbhaile Beirne’s cool finish gave the Girls in Green the perfect ending to a clinical display.

Speaking after the game, Head Coach Dave Connell was delighted with what he saw from his side. ‘We picked up where we left off in the qualifying round with a very good performance. We played some fantastic football and could have scored more.’

‘We looked solid at the back, the midfield linked the play excellently, and we have a lot of players that can score goals, so it was as good as a performance as we have put in in a long time,’ Connell concluded.

Next up for the Women’s Under-19 side is a clash with the Netherlands on Thursday.

Republic of Ireland: Amanda McQuillan (GK) (McAloon 70), Jamie Finn © (Ruddy 45), Niamh Farrelly (Donnelly 70), Chloe Moloney, Niamh Prior, Jess Nolan (Payne 45), Alex Kavanagh (Daly 60), Lucy McCartan (Craven 45), Roma McLaughlin (Watters 70), Leanne Kiernan (Beirne 60), Saoirse Noonan (Ryan Doyle 60). 

Substitutes: Naoisha McAloon (GK), Fiona Donnelly, Sophie Watters, Evelyn Daly, Lynn Craven, Dearbhaile Beirne, Eleanor Ryan Doyle, Tiegan Ruddy, Heather Payne.

Portugal: Ines Pereira (GK), Ana Rute Rodrigues, Bruna Costa, Barbara Marques, Diana Gomes, Catarina Amado, Leandra Pereira, Neuza Besugo, Josephine Monteiro, , Tania Rodrigues, Carolina Rocha.

Substitutes: Ana Rita Oliveira, Ines Salvador, Daniela Silva, Nicole Nunes, Ines Maia, Sofia Borges, Constanca Silva, Beatriz Fonseca, Joanna Seca, Catarina Carmo, Ana Rita Soares, Joana Santos. 

Ireland got their tournament underway with an entertaining and high tempo game which was refereed by officials from Bahrain and Syria. The game ended with an equal share of the points. Ireland had the advantage as the small section of Irish fans made their voices heard as they sang 'Ole Ole Ole Ole' to get us in the mood. 

The Irish Defence Forces Soccer Team were well up for this game, their confidence was high. Ireland played the wide ball from the back with their wingers crossing in to the opposition's box on several occasions during both halves. The Malians game played mostly on the ground, working the ball through a tight midfield. 

Ireland kept their shape and were rewarded for their continuous pressure in the 18th minute with a headed goal by Mark Horgan, which came from a cross just after a corner kick. The assist goes to Chris Kenny.

The first half ended with Malian striker getting an equaliser by putting it past Irish goalkeeper Darren Kelly in the 45th minute, just after the 4th official signalled for one minute of extra time.

The Irish team's halftime talk was focused on keeping the shape and the ball, and so the second half started with the same tempo with Ireland trying to get back on top. In the 55th minute Ireland switched wingers with Aidan Friel going on to the right and David Stack.

Ireland changed it up on 70mins with Sean Gannon coming on for winger Friel and going on the left wing. Another quick change for the home team in the 74th minute as they took Stack off and replaced him with midfielder Shane Dempsey.

Ireland's final change came in the 84th minute with striker Kenny being replaced by Derek Walsh as Ireland go for it with fresh legs up front. 

The game was end to end, unfortunately no more goals were to come even after the 3 minutes of extra time.

In the post-match conference, Irish manager Capt Ian Snee said, "I would have said yes to a 1-1 draw before the game. Mali were good opponents. I'm impressed with the quality of the level of the teams I've seen so far. With many teams having professional players, I have a young team and many of them having never played at this level".

Asked about game's result, Capt Snee said, "This game is over we move on! I'm looking forward now to playing our next game against Qatar." Capt Snee finished by thanking Oman for hosting a tournament of high quality and said the facilities were excellent.

IRELAND:

1. Cpl Darren Kelly, 2 Bde MP Coy (Cherry Orchard FC)

2. Pte Sean Guerins, 12 Inf Bn (BT Harps)

3. Pte Ricky Fox, 3 Inf Bn (Shamrock Rovers)

4. Pte Mark Horgan, 1 Bde CIS Coy (Avondale)

15. Pte Keith Duffy, 25 Inf Bn (Ballina Town)

11. Armn Aidan Friel, No 1 Ops Wing (Longford Town)

13. Pte Craig Shortt, 1 Inf Bn (Birr Town)

10. Cpl Michael O’Shea, 1 Bde MP Coy (Cobh Wanderers)

20. Gnr David Stack, 1 Bde Arty Regt (Cobh Wanderers)

8. Pte Craig Wall, 3 Inf Bn (Freebooters)

5. Tpr Christopher Kenny, 1 Armd Car Sqn (Sligo Rovers)

Subs:

6. Pte Shane Dempsey, 3 Inf Bn (Wexford Youths)

7. Pte Sean Gannon, 7 Inf Bn (Dublin Central FC)

9. Pte Jody Dillon, 1 Mech Inf Coy (Portlaoise AFC)

12. Gnr Ross MacCarthy, 1 Bde Arty Regt (Youghal United)

14. Lt Richard Barber, 27 Inf Bn (St James Gate)

16. Pte Stephen Whelan, 7 Inf Bn (St Paul’s Artane)

17. Pte Derek Walsh, 7 Inf Bn (Usher Celtic)

18. Cpl David Sweeney, 1 Bde Tpt Coy (Ballincollig FC)

19. Pte Ian Lordan, 12 Inf Bn (Greenwood FC)

23. Lt Kenneth Deegan, Tpt Gp/Sch (Newbridge Town)

Luke Hardy (IT Carlow Course Leader) and Tom Elmes (Programme Assistant) were joined by graduates Micheal Schlingermann (Sligo Rovers) and Craig Sexton (Coach, Bohemians U19s) and current students Rachel Graham (Shelbourne Ladies), Jonny Bonner (Finn Harps) and Anthony McAlavey (Waterford FC) at today's event.

These courses have taken place in conjunction between the FAI and IT Carlow since 2009 offering the three year level 7 Sports Coaching and Business Management (Soccer) (CW827) and the four year level 8 (CW858) Sports Management and Coaching.

The course covers a range of modules with a focus on player development, coach education, business and sports science. The broad nature of the course has allowed graduates to gain employment as professional footballers, coaching, performance analysis, strength and conditioning and a variety of roles in the sport and fitness industry.

A number of students have also gained full time employment with the Football Association of Ireland in a variety of departments including summer soccer schools, media and marketing, performance analysis and coach education.

Students have the opportunity to work towards the UEFA B Coaching Qualification which has seen over 60 students gain this qualification in the past four years. A number of our current students and graduates are now coaching in the League of Ireland at Senior, Under 19, Under 17 and Under 15 level with a number of students continuing with their development as coaches by progressing to the UEFA A course in recent years. 

The course will be ideal for any students looking to develop as a player and a coach and will open up opportunities for careers in a wide range of potential career paths.

Early application deadline through the CAO is February 1st; late applications are accepted through the CAO until May 1st.

"We are reminding all prospective students to get their CAO applications completed in time for the February 1 deadline. They can visit the IT Carlow website for more details and get in touch with us where we can answer some of their queries," said Luke Hardy.

"A number of our graduates have gone on to work in the game at a full-time basis whether it is with the FAI or clubs including Manchester United, Reading and Leeds United. We also have numerous graduates currently playing in the SSE Airtricity League and the Continental Tyres WNL.

"These courses are not just aimed at players. We have a number of opportunities for mature students who may consider the coaching side of the game or perhaps even go down the business end of things."

For more information visit: https://www.itcarlow.ie/courses/type/undergraduate-cao-courses.htm

Corcoran passed away passed away in August last year following illness. He served a five-year term as Vice President before being elected FAI President in 2001 and held that position until 2005.

Milo Corcoran will always be remembered as a hugely popular figure in all circles of Irish football due to his unstinting loyalty to improving the game at every level.

Born in Dublin to Kilkenny parents, Milo is most closely associated with County Waterford where he grew up and served the game. He was an FAI Board member and Chairman of the FAI International Committee at the time of his passing and his association with the international sector of the game was significant.

Milo had a major influence on the creation of the Setanta Sports Cup - a cross-border competition between League of Ireland and Irish League clubs - and was as the tournament's chairman from its inception in 2005.He had also served a variety of roles including club chairman with Waterford United, and was the club's representative on the League Committee in the 1980s and 1990s.

He was also a TV Liaison Officer within the FAI and served as a member of the UEFA Youth & Amateur Football Committee, where he was a well-regarded figure throughout the confederation. He also helped establish the Football Village of Hope with the Department of Foreign Affairs, through the Irish Aid programme to assist integration between Palestinian and Israeli children through football.

In his career outside of football, Milo worked as a sales representative for Heineken Ireland and he recently did some consultancy work with Renua Ireland. He is survived by his beloved wife Marie, sons Alan and Evan, who were present at today's ceremony.

FAI CEO John Delaney said: "Milo Corcoran's loss last year was such a dreadful loss and a real shock to all in Irish football. He was a great personal friend of mine for more than 30 years and it is still something we are coming to terms with.

"We made this gesture to mark his contribution to so many of our internationals teams, players and staff throughout his many years' service to the game. The FAI was delighted to be joined by his family at this occasion and am very pleased that they understand how valued Milo was by us all in the FAI.

"Milo Corcoran was a one-off as a football man and its right that his memory will live on here at the FAI headquarters."

FAI President Tony Fitzgerald said: "It was my great pleasure to have met and associated with Milo for many years. Not alone was he an excellent legislator but he was a great man who had a level head on him and was always very courteous to everybody he met whether through sport, employment, or socially.

"He was an outstanding President of the FAI and served the Association with distinction, and was very well respected in UEFA and FIFA. He was held in the highest regard by his former employers, Heineken Ireland, and he was a top class employee for the Company and was very popular with his former work mates.

"My life has certainly been enriched by meeting and getting to know Milo and it was always a great pleasure for me to be in his company. He was an individual that I had the greatest of respect for. I again offer my sincere sympathies to his wife Marie Corcoran, sons Evan and Alan and the family."

 The game will be played at 1pm Irish time (5pm local) on Thursday 19th January, in the Al-Seeb Stadium, Muscat, Oman.

Ireland’s Manager Capt Ian Snee announced three changes to his first team that played against Mali on Tuesday. Pte Keith Duffy, 28 Inf Bn (Ballina Town) is being rested with Pte Shane Dempsey, 3 Inf Bn (Wexford Youths) making his first start having impressed coming on as a sub against Mali. The other changes are Tpr Chris Kenny, 1 ACS (Sligo Rovers) being rested with CISM debutant Pte Jody Dillon, 1 MIC (Portlaoise AFC) going up front as the lone striker with fresh legs. And finally, Cpl Michael O’Shea, 1 Bde MP Coy (Cobh Wanderers), who policed the midfield on Tuesday being rested for Pte Sean Gannon, 7 Inf Bn (Dublin Central FC), who makes his second appearance of the tournament.

In his team meeting on Wednesday 18th January Capt Ian Snee debriefed the soldiers on their previous match and saying, “We are very proud of you, you gave it your all against Mali.”

Looking ahead to tomorrow’s game he asked if they ever heard of Qatar as an International footballing nation, or new where they were ranked in the FIFA world standings? He got no replies. “Qatar have professional players, some are quite amazing at times. no one’s ever heard of them on the international stage, they are middle of the road.” He used the Attitude – Discipline - Concentration to get his points on game play across. He finished, “Man-to-man you have got to believe you are better than them.”

Team Coach Cpl Thomas Hewitt, 2 Bde Ord, told them to think back to the UEFA EURO Qualifiers game: Ireland Vs Germany in October 2015. With underdogs Ireland winning 1-0l having only had limited percent of possession. He told them to use that game for motivation of their belief that they are good enough to go out there and compete.

The CISM Tournament will be broadcasted live on Oman Live and Oman Sport TV Channels, and the tournament has its own dedicated website: http://cismoman2017.om

Team Selection 19th January 2017 

1. Cpl Darren Kelly, 2 Bde MP Coy (Cherry Orchard FC)

2. Pte Sean Guerins, 12 Inf Bn (BT Harps)

3. Pte Ricky Fox, 3 Inf Bn (Shamrock Rovers)

4. Pte Mark Horgan, 1 Bde CIS Coy (Avondale)

7. Pte Sean Gannon, 7 Inf Bn (Dublin Central FC)

11. Armn Aidan Friel, No 1 Ops Wing (Longford Town)

13. Pte Craig Shortt, 1 Inf Bn (Birr Town)

6. Pte Shane Dempsey, 3 Inf Bn (Wexford Youths)

20. Gnr David Stack, 1 Bde Arty Regt (Cobh Wanderers)

8. Pte Craig Wall, 3 Inf Bn (Freebooters)

9. Pte Jody Dillon, 1 Mech Inf Coy (Portlaoise AFC)

Subs:

5. Tpr Christopher Kenny, 1 Armd Car Sqn (Sligo Rovers)

10. Cpl Michael O’Shea, 1 Bde MP Coy (Cobh Wanderers)

12. Gnr Ross MacCarthy, 1 Bde Arty Regt (Youghal United)

14. Lt Richard Barber, 27 Inf Bn (St James Gate)

15. Pte Keith Duffy, 28 Inf Bn (Ballina Town)

16. Pte Stephen Whelan, 7 Inf Bn (St Paul’s Artane)

17. Pte Derek Walsh, 7 Inf Bn (Usher Celtic)

18. Cpl David Sweeney, 1 Bde Tpt Coy (Ballincollig FC)

19. Pte Ian Lordan, 12 Inf Bn (Greenwood FC)

23. Lt Kenneth Deegan, Tpt Gp/Sch (Newbridge Town)

FAI Football Development officer Jason O'Connor has done excellent work in tandem with local Gardai to provide a regular escape from anti-social behaviour and it has worked well so far.

The Late Nite Leagues campaign has been a huge success in recent years, but it has largely catered for young kids and teenagers. Now, this new version in the Factory Youthspace in Southill is open to adults.

The League is a joint initiative between O'Connor and Seargent Adrian Whelan, Roxboro Garda station, and has seen over 60 players from all over the city take part thus far.

Aside from simply playing football, the aim of the League is to engage with adult males and promote physical exercise & the positive attributes associated with the game. While positive links can also be built between the FAI, Gardai and the local community.

Each of the games are refereed by Gardai Sean Buckley and Adrian Healy, while the standard has been impressively high and an indicator of the talent that exists in Limerick.