In the Qualifying Round, Ireland were one of the stand-out teams as they scored 12 goals in three victories in Turner's Cross to top Group 10. It was a testament to Bell's diligent coaching that they qualified so emphatically.

However, Bell is experienced enough to know that nothing is guaranteed in football. It is why he views the campaign as only a quarter of a way through with three Elite Round games and then a finals in Czech Republic to aim for.

In order to reach the finals tournament in May, Ireland must win Group 4 - containing Serbia, Scotland and Hungary - or finish as runner-up with the best record against the sides first and third in their pool. It's not going to be easy.

"We have a young squad - half of which still qualify for the Under 16s - but I have no fear about the players being capable of performing at this level and winning the three games," said Bell.

"It is a bonus that most of this squad will be eligible again next year because they will gain so much experience and develop as players. But they are in this squad because they are the in-form players and I'm excited to see them in action.

"Technically, we are a very good team and we have as good of a chance to qualify as any other team. It is a difficult start against the host nation, but we have no fear and we are taking the attitude that we have to win all three games."

Bell - along with his assistants Laura Cusack and Pat Began - knows all about guiding an Under 17 team to the European Championships having done it with Dave Connell in 2015. So he isn't taking anything for granted.

"We have three girls from last year's squad in Tiegan Ruddy, Sadhbh Doyle and Heather Payne whose experience will be crucial to pass on to the younger players. I can't give them enough credit for what they've done so far, but we have to keep it going," explained Bell.

"Last year we finished as runners-up in the Elite Round and it wasn't good enough to qualify. This year we are going in with the aim to win all three games and to win at all costs. We have one chance to do it and we are ready."

Republic of Ireland WU17 Squad
Goalkeepers: Rachael Kelly (Shelbourne Ladies), Erica Turner (UCD Waves)
Defenders: Sadhbh Doyle (Galway WFC), Tiegan Ruddy (Shelbourne Ladies), Chloe Singleton (Peamount United), Roisin McGovern (Enniskerry), Bethany Carroll (Kilkenny United WFC), Lauryn Grier (Kentstown Rovers)
Midfielders: Heather Payne, Aisling Spillane, Gillian Keenan, Doireann Fahy (Peamount United), Megan Mackey (Chelsea Ladies), Tyler Toland (Maiden City)
Forwards: Carla McManus (Peamount United), Alannah McEvoy, Isibeal Atkinson (Enniskerry), Eabha O'Mahony (Lakewood)

Fixtures
13 March: Republic of Ireland v Serbia, Stara Pazova, Serbia, KO 13:00
15 March: Republic of Ireland v Scotland, Gradski Zemum, Serbia, KO 13:00
18 March: Republic of Ireland v Hungary, Gradski Zemum, Serbia, KO 13:00

Walking Football, as the name implies, is a slower version of the beautiful game. It is a new exercise concept, which was launched in Galway by Croi in association with the FAI. It’s a non-contact form of exercise, currently played indoors and supervised by trained staff to ensure that it is safe and enjoyable.

“It’s not what you see in the Premier League, but it’s a very adaptable form of exercise which can be played at any level of skill and is open to men and women of all ages,” said Katie Codyre, who is leading the programme for Croi.

In Mayo, FAI Football Development officer Paul Byrne, in conjunction with the Mayo Sports Partnership, recently completed a workshop on Walking Football. From this, Byrne met with the Castlebar Sports Forum and talks began around the benefits of Walking Football. He was then asked to present a Walking Football workshop to a group of women just outside Castlebar.

The programme took place over for a number of weeks at the back end of 2016, in Castlebar Town Park MUGA Facility. A group of women attended weekly, every Monday morning – all with varying abilities, but predominately all beginners. There was no need to have a knowledge of or experience in football to participate - it was simply a fun way to exercise and get healthy.

For more information on this programme or any other FAI Women’s programmes, email women@fai.ie

In Dublin, FAI Football Development officer, Tommy Carberry has been working with local schools running a girls' schools programme in Sheriff Street, since October 2015. Initial developments began between Carberry, David Gibbons (DCC manager, St Laurence O’Toole Centre Sheriff Street), Mona Lucas (Principal, St Laurence O’Toole Girls School Sheriff Street) and Fergal Scally (DCC Sports Officer). The outcome was to begin a girls' schools programme in the DCC Centre on Wednesday mornings. 

Carberry and Scally delivered the programme and up to 40 girls attended weekly. Many of whom are playing for the very first time.

As with any FAI programme, the key objective is to create something sustainable to keep young people involved in the game. So Carberry began talks with Gibbons and Paul Ryan, Sheriff YC, with a view to starting up a girls programme.  

Discussions have very productive and with extra support from the FAI in the provision of equipment through the Aviva Soccer Sisters Club Programme, the club are keen to progress. The success of this has now resulted in two teams competing in the local league at Under 11 and U12 level.

Michelle Kane and Amy Kelly, who both work for DCC, were approached by Gibbons to see if they would be interested in getting involved with the club running a girls team both agreed and are looking after the U12s. Kane has been capped for the Republic of Ireland from U16s through to the senior women’s national team, while Kelly was a participant on the FAI/FAS course in Clondalkin and went to the USA on a scholarship. So it is great to have to ex-players pass on their experience to these young girls.

Lauren Lawless and Christine Mc McCarthy, also both former players, are looking after the U11s. The girls programme is still running every Wednesday.

Meanwhile in Limerick City, FAI Football Development Officer, Jason O’Connor has been working with new club Limerick Belles.

Delivering the FAI After-School programme, an intercultural programme, in Presentation NS, O’Connor wanted to increase participation of girls playing football.  With the assistance of O’Connor, Limerick Belles were formed by Sharon & James Glavin and the club has grown incredibly in such a short period of time.

They currently train in the Crescent Comprehensive School in Dooradoyle, Limerick and play in the Limerick County & District Underage League. The club currently cater for U8 through to U16 and are working towards having a senior women’s team. They will aim to start a soccer tots academy starting in September for 3-6 year-olds.

For more information on either of these programmes or any other FAI Women’s programmes, email women@fai.ie

Dave Bell's team have set out with a mission to win all three Elite Round games in Group 4 - against Serbia, Scotland and Hungary - to reach this summer's tournament in Czech Republic. But nobody is looking beyond the first game.

Ask captain Ruddy about the team's preparation and she replies with the clear message of being confident but respectful of their opponents, of being willing to fight for every ball, and of having spoken only of overcoming Serbia.

"We have been training well and we are looking strong with everyone pushing each other to be in that starting team to play Serbia. It's a good atmosphere in the squad," said Ruddy, pictured above with Tyler Toland.

"We are 100 per cent focused on Serbia. Nothing else matters right now other than Serbia. We know their strengths and their weaknesses, so we will be looking to exploit them. We have a game-plan which we will be sticking to.

"Every game at this stage of qualifying is crucial, but it's all about the first game. We are going in with the intention of beating Serbia and getting off to the best possible start in the group."

Ruddy, who recently joined Shelbourne Ladies, was part of the Ireland Under 17 squad last year when they fell short of qualification despite some brave performances in France. That memory has been driving her on ever since.

As one of the senior players in Bell's squad, Ruddy has been encouraging her team-mates to do everything that they can to reach the finals tournament. She is not interested in finishing at this level with regrets.

"Last year was hard to take and I've told all of the girls that they won't want to feel that way. But we have moved on, this is a new group of players and we are looking ahead," said Ruddy.

"We know that if we can keep a clean sheet then we are going to score goals. We have a lot of dangerous players who can score goals and that is something that gives us confidence, but we have to work hard as a team.

"We are very positive about what we can do, but everything is about beating Serbia."

Fixtures
13 March: Republic of Ireland v Serbia, Stara Pazova, Serbia, KO 13:00
15 March: Republic of Ireland v Scotland, Gradski Zemum, Serbia, KO 13:00
18 March: Republic of Ireland v Hungary, Gradski Zemum, Serbia, KO 13:00

Breen takes over the role from Barry Ferguson, who stepped down after last summer's Paralympic Games in Rio, and the former Kilbarrack United coach is eager to make his own stamp on the team.

Assisted by Rob Sweeney, the new Head Coach will combine his work on the FAI Project Futsal initiative with preparing the team for upcoming tournaments and also recruiting new players. It's a big jump and one that will test him.

"I saw the advert for the Head Coach vacancy after Barry (Ferguson) stepped down, so I went for it and was lucky enough to get an interview," explained Breen of how he got involved.

"Actually, the CP Development Tournament is held where I am based so that was my first insight into CP football, but I have so much to learn about the game and it's exciting to be involved.

"I will be dealing with a different kind of dynamic that I won't be used to, learning all of the rules of the game, adapting to a different tempo, new players and structures. But I think it's something that will improve me as a coach and I feel I can offer a lot to the team."

The most important event on Breen's calendar right now is the World Cup in Argentina, which takes place later this year. He knows that there isn't much time to be wasted and that fast pace is something that thrills him.

"It's not everyday that you are preparing for a World Championships. For any coach to coach their national team is the pinnacle, so I'm very privileged to be in this position and I'm looking forward to the challenges ahead," said Breen.

Equally as important as the preparation for Argentina is the search for new players eligible for CP football. Breen firmly believes that he can discover players who may not even be aware that they can represent their national team at this level.

"We are looking for new players all of the time," he said. "There are players out there playing mainstream football who may not even know that they qualify for the CP team, so I would suggest checking the criteria and getting in touch with us through the Football For All programme."

Footballers who have cerebral palsy, hypertonia, ataxia, athetosis, diplegia, hemiplegia, or has had a stroke or an acquired brain injury are eligible for the CP team.

Should any player be interested in playing for the Ireland team, or if you know of someone who qualifies, contact oisin.jordan@fai.ie

The late winner came courtesy of substitute Sophie Liston (Scoil Mhuire agus Ide, Newcastle West) right on the full time mark. 

The game seemed to be destined for penalties as Jess Brown’s equaliser was forced home six minutes from time which cancelled out Zara Foley’s effort on 23 minutes but the Irish fought back to claim a historic win over reigning Bob Docherty Cup Champions England. 

Lorraine Counihan’s side had a few notable absentees for this crunch encounter. The impressive Eabha O’Mahony (Mount Mercy College, Cork) was drafted into Dave Bell’s U17 squad for the UEFA European Championship Qualifiers in Serbia. Emily Whelan (Ardgillan CC, Balbriggan) had other sporting commitments and missed out on her International call up. 

There was also late injury concerns as goalkeepers Ria McPhilbin (Coláiste Iognáid) and Courtney Maguire (St. Laurence's College, Loughlinstown) were ruled out. This however saw the reintroduction of Neve Scanlon (Deele College, Raphoe) and a welcome call up for newbie Maeve Williams (Abbey CC, Ferrybank) who starred for Munster at the Girls’ Interprovincial Tournament last November.  Also returning to the fray was Emilia Koziel of Dominican College, Taylor’s Hill who missed out on the Northern Ireland win a fortnight earlier due to injury. 

Claire Robinson’s crew were lively in the opening exchanges which saw the Lionesses scorn a missed penalty in the opening two minutes of action as Jess Brown was taken down inside the box with Mia Dodd picking up a card for the infringement. Brown however dragged her effort off target much to the relief of the home crowd. 

Berkshire youngster Emma Harries also had a delightful opportunity to open their account but her attempt was just inches wide of Neve Scanlon’s post with nine minutes registered.  

The Irish seemed to settle into the game following a frantic first 15 minutes which saw a spell of possession for the hosts.

Ballincollig CS scholar Zara Foley gave her side a slight advantage in proceedings as her well executed set piece on 23 minutes deceived Captain Lucy Williamson in goal to sail into the top corner for a magnificent opener. 

1-0 to the hosts at the interval.

The Irish continued their attacking prowess early in the second half as substitute Sophie Liston combined well with colleague Zara Foley. The Newcastle West starlet fired a rocket goal bound but the sub goalkeeper Molly Bull pulled off a quite athletic save to keep her team in contention.

Northumberland player Jess Brown redeemed herself for her early penalty miss as she latched onto a mistimed pass from the Irish keeper to slot home the equaliser seven minutes from time. 

The momentum was with the visitors as full time approached but Liston was on hand to dispatch the match winner for the Republic when she converted from close range on 70 minutes. 

An historic win for the Irish over a dominant England team who will be well versed as they enter into the Bob Docherty Cup next month in defence of their title. 

The Republic of Ireland management team will have some difficult decisions to make on their selection process following today’s encounter. A final trial session on Saturday, March 25 will put the finishing touches to the squad ahead of the International tournament which is scheduled for April 9 to 12 in the AUL Complex. The Irish will be pipped against Scotland and Wales in the group stages of that contest but will be hoping for further progression as the tournament continues. The other grouping will see England, Northern Ireland Shelbourne go head to head. 

The Republic of Ireland last won the Bob Docherty Cup seven years ago when Scotland hosted in Glasgow. Runners up spot has been awarded to the Irish on three consecutive years, 2016, 2015 and 2014. Can Counihan and her squad go one better this season. The signs are good as two wins from two will ensure a new found confidence in the squad ahead of the opening day action. 

POTM | Colin Bell (Senior WNT Head Coach) was on hand to award the accolade to Presentation SS, Thurles student Aoibheann Clancy following her heroic performance for the Schools select. She picked up a signed match day jersey courtesy of Savannah McCarthy who previously lined out for the Munster and Republic of Ireland Schools select back in 2011 representing her old school Presentation SS, Listowel.

Republic of Ireland: Neve Scanlon, Nadine Clare, Kayla Brady, Mia Dodd, Ellie Ferguson, Aoibheann Clancy, Zara Foley, Jessica Ziu, Anna Fahey, Taylor White, Shauna Carroll.

Substitutes: Kelsey Munroe, Kate O’Dowd, Muireann Devanney, Sophie Liston for Carroll (29), Maeve Williams, Emilia Koziel for White (55).

England: Lucy Williamson, Arabella Suttie, Deerna Goodwin, Melissa Robertson, Emily Wallace, Jasmine McQuade, Emma Harries, Sophie Peskett, Gemma Lawley, Georgia Brown, Jess Brown.

Substitutes: Abbie Fenton for Wallace (HT), Libby Gilmore for McQuade (56), Sharna Wilkinson for G Brown (HT), Lexie Harrison for Peskett (48), Molly Bull for Williamson (HT).

Referee: Orla Devaney (Dublin).

Republic of Ireland manager Martin O'Neill unveiled a 39-man provisional squad for the March games against Wales and Iceland at Aviva Stadium.

O'Neill revealed his selection at 'Three' Headquarters as he turns his focus toward the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Wales on Friday, 24 March and the 'Three' International Friendly against Iceland on Tuesday, 28 March.

There are first senior call-ups for Brentford defender John Egan and Reading midfielder Liam Kelly, while Newcastle United goalkeeper Rob Elliot returns to the squad for the first time in a year since being injured against Slovakia.

Brighton & Hove Albion defender Shane Duffy misses out due to a foot injury, while Burnley midfielder Robbie Brady will be suspended for the Wales game after collecting his second yellow card of the qualifying campaign last November.

The squad will report into camp on Sunday, 19 March for the 'Three' FAI International Football Awards, which will be broadcast live on RTE2 from 20:30. The shortlist for the Awards will be announced on Tuesday, 14 March.

From Monday, 20 March, the squad will train at the FAI National Training Centre in preparation for the two games. The visit of Wales will be Ireland's fifth qualifying game following victories over Georgia, Moldova and Austria, as well as a draw away to Serbia.

Currently top of Group D, Ireland have six qualifying games remaining - four of which are at home - as well as upcoming friendly games against Iceland, Mexico and Uruguay.

Tickets for the Wales game are sold out, but there are still some on sale for the Iceland game. Also, supporters can avail of the DUO ticket package for the Uruguay and Austria double header this summer via Ticketmaster.ie

Republic of Ireland Provisional Squad
Goalkeepers: Colin Doyle (Bradford City), Rob Elliot (Newcastle United), Darren Randolph (West Ham United), Keiren Westwood (Sheffield Wednesday)
Defenders: Seamus Coleman (Everton), Cyrus Christie, Richard Keogh, Alex Pearce (Derby County), Paul McShane (Reading), Andy Boyle (Preston North End), John O'Shea (Sunderland), Ciaran Clark (Newcastle United), John Egan (Brentford), Stephen Ward (Burnley), Matt Doherty (Wolverhampton Wanderers)
Midfielders: Aiden McGeady, Daryl Horgan (Preston North End), Glenn Whelan (Stoke City), James McCarthy (Everton), Jeff Hendrick, Robbie Brady (Burnley), David Meyler (Hull City), Liam Kelly (Reading), Darron Gibson (Sunderland), Harry Arter (Bournemouth), Eunan O'Kane (Leeds United), Conor Hourihane (Aston Villa), Stephen Gleeson (Birmingham City), Wes Hoolahan (Norwich City), Anthony Pilkington (Cardiff City), Callum O'Dowda (Bristol City), Jonathan Hayes (Aberdeen), James McClean (West Bromwich Albion)
Forwards: Kevin Doyle (Colorado Rapids), Shane Long (Southampton), David McGoldrick (Ipswich Town), Daryl Murphy (Newcastle United), Adam Rooney (Aberdeen), Jonathan Walters (Stoke City)

Fixtures
Friday, 24 March: Republic of Ireland v Wales, 2018 FIFA World Cup Qualifier - Group D, Aviva Stadium, KO 19:45
Tuesday, 28 March: Republic of Ireland v Iceland, 'Three' International Friendly, Aviva Stadium, KO 19:45

In Saturday evening’s game before a crowd of 1,600 at Celtic Park, Killarney secured a semi-final spot for the first time in their history thanks to a late extra-time winner in their 2-1 victory over Janesboro.

They will now face Sheriff on the weekend of April 8/9 for a place in the Aviva Stadium final in May, with the other semi-final featuring Boyle Celtic against Evergreen.

Sheriff, chasing their fourth crown in six years, were pushed all the way at Peake Villa in Sunday’s last-eight tie, eventually prevailing 2-1 courtesy of a last-gasp winner by John Rock.

Evergreen had their former Aston Villa and Shamrock Rovers striker Mikey Drennan on hand to supply the only goal just past the hour in their triumph over Kilmallock United while Boyle clinched their berth by virtue of a 6-5 penalty shoot-out victory following a 2-2 draw at Carrick United.

Confidence is high in Kerry that Killarney can clear one last hurdle in their pursuit of a place at the home of Irish football.

Though they face the ultimate test to topple the kingpins of the competition, Celtic will have another bumper crowd helping them when Sheriff visit to kingdom next month.

Steven Hayes proved to be their supersub on Saturday as he pounced on the loose ball late on just as a penalty shoot-out was looming. 

Man-of-the-match Jamie Spillane had earlier hauled Killarney level on the hour after John Tierney had given Janesboro a fully deserved first-half lead. 

The visitors from Limerick had dominated proceedings in the opening period with Shane Clarke and Adrian Power having the best of several chances. 

Janesboro looked slick in possession from the off and last year's beaten semi-finalists eventually took the lead when former Limerick attacker Tierney smashed home from 20 yards just past the half hour. 

Tierney went close again before the break but the inspirational Spillane gave Killarney a huge boost when the centre back thumped home a header from a corner.

When Peter McCarthy was sent off for the hosts just before full-time, Limerick's Premier Division leaders would have been fancied their chances going into extra-time. 

Instead, Hayes slammed home from close range after Cathal O'Shea had a shot blocked before Janesboro striker Clarke was given a second yellow card to leave both sides finishing with 10 men. 

AVIVA FAI JUNIOR CUP SEMI-FINAL DRAW #roadtoaviva

Saturday 11 March: Killarney Celtic (Kerry) 2-1 Janesboro FC (Limerick) (AET).

Sunday 12 March:

Evergreen FC (Kilkenny) 1-0 Kilmallock United (Limerick)

Peake Villa (Tipperary) 1-2 Sheriff YC (Dublin)

Carrick United (Waterford) 2-2 Boyle Celtic (Roscommon)

(AET - Boyle Celtic win 6-5 on penalties).

AVIVA FAI JUNIOR CUP SEMI-FINAL DRAW #roadtoaviva

Boyle Celtic v Evergreen

Killarney Celtic v Sheriff YC.

Ties to be played on the weekend of 8 and 9 April.

Dave Bell's team set out for these qualifiers with the intention of taking it one game at a time - refusing to look beyond their first match, which happened to be against hosts Serbia in Stara Pazova.

Well, they completed the first part of that mission as they collected three crucial points. And with Scotland drawing with Hungary in the other game, Ireland moved into pole position.

"I'm delighted for the girls because it was a very hard-working performance put in by everyone in the team," said Bell afterwards.

"We started well and had two or three chances to take the lead inside the first 15 minutes. Then our passing went a bit sloppy and Serbia came back at us, but we kicked on again, controlled the possession and always looked like scoring.

"It is a great win because we kept a clean sheet, didn't pick up any yellow cards and got the three points that we targeted. If we can reach those standards in our next two games then I would be confident of progressing further.

"But there is still work to do and we will turn our attention to Scotland now. We have watched some of their DVDs and will do our homework on them. But I'm really pleased by this performance and it puts us in the driving seat."

Ireland recorded six attempts on target overall with Carla McManus, Tiegan Ruddy and Sadhbh Doyle going close before McEvoy found the breakthrough on 77 minutes, thanks to an incisive assist from captain Ruddy.

That goal proved to be the winner and it sets Ireland up nicely ahead of facing Scotland on Wednesday and Hungary on Saturday.

Republic of Ireland: Turner; Doyle, Ruddy, Grier; Mackey, Toland, Fahey (McGovern 80), McEvoy; Payne, McManus, Carolan (Spillane 52).

Serbia: Cetinja; Josic, Mostarac, Krstic, Frajtovic; Savanovic, Miladinovic, Trbojevic; Plavsic, Agbaba (Zivkovic 78), Bulatovic.

Referee: Shona Shukrula (Netherlands).

The opening quarter saw the Forces start strongly with a quick tempo to prevent Greg Yelverton’s team from settling into the game but could not produce any clear-cut opportunities with Craig Shortt only able to drag a shot wide.

The Colleges and Universities would strike first blood in the tie after 18 minutes when Shane Daly-Butz linked up with Robbie Gaul to get the Trinity man in behind to cross at the by-line with UCD centre forward Georgie Kelly able to fire home.

The first half proved to have very few chances with Joseph Dillon’s deflected shot causing the Student’s skipper Matt Connor little difficulty in goal. Jason McClelland should have doubled the advantage just before the break when Kelly nipped in front of Whelan in the Army goal and pulled the ball back for his club team mate who could not keep his shot below the crossbar.

With six of the starting eleven plying their trade in the SSE Airtricity League, the Colleges and Universities could apply their superiority and limit their opposition’s attacking threat in the second half. Anthony McAlavey was pulling the strings in the centre of the park and chances came for the Waterford man and team mates Daly-Butz and O’Connor which forced good saves out of Whelan.

Just after the hour mark, Yelverton looked to freshen things up with several changes and this decision paid dividends immediately when Gareth McDonagh latched on to McAlavey’s through ball and curled his shot into the net.

Speaking after the game, Yelverton was pleased with the performance and recognised the importance of the second goal. “We just needed that second goal. At 1-0, it’s dangerous you know they can always catch us on the counter attack but when Gareth got the second goal we looked more likely to score again,” said the Cork native.

Looking ahead to upcoming games against Scotland and France, Yelverton is looking forward to the challenges ahead. “With the players getting capped, I’m sure the lads will be eager to fight for their place. It’s good for us to travel away and test ourselves against foreign opposition.”

IRISH COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES: M Connor; R Gaul (M Slater 72), G Kearney (R Taheny 72), S O’Mahony, B McAuliffe; A McAlavey, G O’Neill (J McKeown 63); S Daly-Butz, D O’Connor (C Barry 63), J McClelland (G McDonagh 63); G Kelly (M Whelan 63).

IRISH DEFENCE FORCES: S Whelan (J O’Connor 72); E Hastings (C Doolin 72), S Guerins, D Sweeney, P Nolan (I Lordan 52); R Fox, C Shortt; A Friel, R McCarthy (P Keane 52), D Stack (D Lacey 75); J Dillon.

Referee: C Duffy (Dublin).

The shortlist for the 2016 'Three' FAI International Football Awards has been unveiled ahead of the ceremony taking place in RTE Studios on Sunday, 19 March.

This year's ceremony - which will be the 27th overall - has been extended to an hour and a half with live coverage on RTE2 from 20:00, where the nominees will be joined by special guests and the Republic of Ireland men's senior squad.

There is one new category added with 'Colleges/Universities International Player of the Year' recognising the best players to feature for Greg Yelverton's team last year.

The recipients of the 'Hall of Fame' and 'International Personality' awards will be revealed on the night of the ceremony, while Dundalk FC have been selected as winners of the 'Special Merit Award' following their terrific season in 2016.

2016 'Three' FAI International Football Awards Nominees

Senior International Player of the Year
Robbie Brady
Seamus Coleman
Jeff Hendrick

Young International Player of the Year
Robbie Brady
Shane Duffy
Jeff Hendrick

Senior Women's International Player of the Year
Karen Duggan
Aine O'Gorman
Stephanie Roche

International Goal of the Year
Robbie Brady v Italy (UEFA EURO 2016)
Wes Hoolahan v Sweden (UEFA EURO 2016)
James McClean v Austria (2018 FIFA World Cup Qualifier)

Under 21 International Player of the Year
Harry Charsley
Josh Cullen
Callum O'Dowda

Under 19 International Player of the Year
Colm Deasy
George Poynton
Connor Ronan

Under 19 Women's International Player of the Year
Lucy McCartan
Roma McLaughlin
Amanda McQuillan

Under 17 International Player of the Year
Canice Carroll
Jayson Molumby
Declan Rice

Under 17 Women's International Player of the Year
Sadhbh Doyle
Leanne Kiernan
Saoirse Noonan

Under 16 International Player of the Year
Aaron Bolger
Jordan Doherty
Lee O'Connor

Under 16 Women's International Player of the Year
Megan Mackey
Carla McManus
Tyler Toland

Under 15 International Player of the Year
Sean Brennan
Adam Idah
Callum Thompson

Junior International Player of the Year
David Hoban
Stephen Kelly
Danny O'Neill

Intermediate Player of the Year
Peter Doherty
Mark Horgan
Andy McNulty

FAI School's International Player of the Year
Shane Hanney
Conor Kane
Conor McCarthy

FAI Colleges/Universities International Player of the Year
Matthew Connor
George Poynton
Paul Rooney

Football For All International Player of the Year
Luke Evans
John Farrell
Paul McMahon

SSE Airtricity League Player of the Year
Andy Boyle
Daryl Horgan
Sean Maguire

Special Merit Award
Dundalk FC

The Irish team meet the Faroes in the Cypriot coastal city of Paphos (Kick-off is 12.15pm Irish time) looking for a strong start in the mini-tournament.

The Group winners and seven runners-up with the best record against the teams first and third in their section advance to join the hosts Croatia in the finals tournament in May.

"We've finished our final preparations. Everybody is in good spirits, fit to play and looking forward to the game," said O’Brien.

"Throughout the season we’ve been adding on the building blocks for the players. The players have been looking forward to this tournament and know the importance of it. Game 1 is upon us and we’ve got to focus on that and make sure mindset is right.

"The Faroes have a lot of discipline and strength in the middle of the park. They have some talented players but we’ve looked at the footage and there are areas of their play that we need to be aware of and also areas we can hope to exploit.

"Getting a good start is very important in tournament football. Our players are very aware and know it is very important to get a good start but we need to be calm and not be too worked up because we want to make sure we’re still involved on the final day of the tournament as well as being ready for the first game.

"It’s been warm here but the kick-off time is fine. The players saw the pitch and the surface is excellent so there can be no excuses on that front."

Republic of Ireland Under 17 Squad
Goalkeepers: Brian Maher (St Patrick's Athletic), Kian Clarke (Bohemians)
Defenders: Lee O'Connor (Manchester United), Kameron Ledwidge (St Kevin's Boys), Nathan Collins (Cherry Orchard), Jordan Doherty (Sheffield United), Aaron Bolger (Shamrock Rovers), Conor Coventry (West Ham United).
Midfielders: Brandon Kavanagh (Bohemians), Rowan Roche (Blackpool), Richie O'Farrell (St Patrick's Athletic), Gavin Kilkenny (Bournemouth), Daryl Walsh (Waterford), Ronan Manning (Galway United), Luke Nolan (St Patrick's Athletic)
Forwards: Adam Idah (Corinthians Boys), Glen McAuley (Liverpool), Aaron Connolly (Brighton & Hove Albion).

Fixtures
UEFA U17 European Championships Elite Qualifying Round - Group 8

Wednesday, 15 March: Republic of Ireland v Faroe Islands, Paphiakos Stadium, Paphos (CYP), KO 12:15
Friday, 17 March: Republic of Ireland v Slovakia, Paphiakos Stadium, Paphos (CYP), KO 12:15
Monday, 20 March: Republic of Ireland v Cyprus, Kouklia Community Stadium, Paphos (CYP), KO 12:00

A 1-0 win over Serbia propelled Dave Bell's squad to the top of Group 4, however midfield ace Toland sees more benefit in working harder rather than basking in the glory of an opening win. As far as she is concerned, there is work to do.

The objective for this squad is to make it out of these Elite Round qualifiers - which are being hosted by Serbia - and book a place in this summer's UEFA European Championship finals in Czech Republic. One step at a time though as they still have two games to play.

"We are really happy that we got the three points against Serbia. It was what we wanted from the game and it gives us a great start. But we rushed things a little too much and didn't play good football at times," said Toland.

Ever the perfectionist, Toland has focused in on the areas where she and her team-mates can improve ahead of Wednesday's clash with Scotland. It is that type of professional mindset that Bell - and his coaching staff - has worked hard to instil into this squad.

Sure, they want to win at all costs, but Toland knows that there is another level within the players that they can bring out. And if they do then it could trigger their exciting attackers into full flow at just the right time.

"We are top of the group, which is great, but we want to win the next game and see where we are after that," stated Toland, who plays her club football with Maiden City.

"We know that we can pass the ball around better, relax more and get the ball into girls like Heather (Payne), Carla (McManus) and Alannah (McEvoy) who can put it in the back of the net.

"There is more still to come from us and we are confident that we can improve again. That is what we want to do in the next game and if we do it then we should have the quality to win."

Toland is not one to be caught up in distractions; she confessed to not thinking much about her nomination for Under 16 Women's Player of the Year because of these qualifiers. And it's that kind of attitude that has put Ireland into such a good position in Group 4.

Fixtures
Wednesday, 15 March: Republic of Ireland v Scotland, Gradski Zemum, Serbia, KO 13:00
Saturday, 18 March: Republic of Ireland v Hungary, Gradski Zemum, Serbia, KO 13:00

The Irish team will host the Kosovans at Tallaght Stadium on Saturday, 25 March, kick-off 13:00, in their opening game of the 2019 UEFA U21 Championships qualifiers.

Italy and San Marino will co-host the UEFA U21 Championships Finals tournament. Ireland are grouped with Germany, Israel, Norway, Azerbaijan and Kosovo, who are entering the UEFA U21 qualifiers for the first time.

The nine group winners advance to the finals with the four best runners-up entering a play-off to decide the final two spots in the tournament alongside the Italians.

Republic of Ireland Under 21 Squad

Goalkeepers: Kieran O’Hara (Manchester United), Liam Bossin (Anderlecht)

Defenders: Danny Kane (Huddersfield Town), Ryan Sweeney (Stoke City – on loan at Bristol Rovers), Shaun Donnellan (West Bromwich Albion), Corey Whelan (Liverpool), Connor O’Grady (Sheffield Wednesday)

Midfielders: Liam Kinsella (Walsall), Rory Hale (Aston Villa), Josh Cullen (West Ham United – on loan at Bradford), Harry Charsley (Everton), Ryan Manning (Queens Park Rangers),  Ethan Boyle (Finn Harps), Connor Dimaio (Chesterfield), Olamide Shodipo (Queens Park Rangers - on loan to Port Vale)
Forwards: Ronan Curtis (Derry City), Reece Grego Cox (Queens Park Rangers), Jake Mulraney (Inverness CT), Joe Quigley (Bournemouth - on loan at Gillingham)

Fixture
UEFA U21 European Championships Qualifying Round - Group 5

Saturday, 25 March: Republic of Ireland v Kosovo, Tallaght Stadium, KO 13.00

The following licences were awarded:

Premier Division
Bohemian FC, Bray Wanderers FC, Cork City FC, Derry City FC, Drogheda United FC, Dundalk FC, Finn Harps FC, Galway United FC, Limerick FC, Longford Town FC, Shamrock Rovers FC, Sligo Rovers FC, St Patrick's Athletic FC, Waterford FC

First Division
Athlone Town FC, Cabinteely FC, Cobh Ramblers FC, Shelbourne FC, UCD AFC, Wexford FC

The draw for the qualifying round of the Irish Daily Mail FAI Cup has taken place. The draw, which took place at FAI HQ and was attended by club officials from 16 intermediate teams and four junior teams who were included in the draw.

FAI President Tony Fitzgerald and Shamrock Rovers' Sporting Director Stephen McPhail performed the draw, presented by Con Murphy, with eight fixtures drawn.

Leinster Senior League sides Crumlin United, Bluebell United, Portmanock and Glenville all received byes to go straight into the First Round of the Irish Daily Mail FAI Cup.

The Irish Daily Mail FAI Cup Qualifying Round draw is as follows:-

Greystones United v Sheriff YC

Ballymun United v Killester United

Killarney Celtic v Boyle Celtic

Edenderry Town v Cobh Wanderers

Bangor Celtic v Cherry Orchard

Everton v Liffey Wanderers

Evergreen v St. Marys College

Corinthians v Ballincollig

*All ties will be played on the week ending April 30th.

Ahead of the draw, FAI Cup Sponsors Irish Daily Mail announced details of a 2000 euro prize fund to be awarded to the last non-league club left in the competition as the Irish Daily Mail continue their sponsorship for the 2017 season.

The prize fund can be used towards the cost of equipment for the winning club and Irish Daily Mail Circulation Manager David Vaz hopes the prize fund benefits non-league football.

He said: "The non-league clubs work extremely hard all season to play top level football against the best teams in the country. "We hope this bursary will help in some way towards the high costs of running an amateur club."

Milo sadly passed away last August aged 65 after a short battle with Cancer following his diagnosis shortly after travelling around France to support the Boys in Green during last summer’s UEFA EURO 2016 campaign. 

Unfortunately Milo also suffered a Stroke in 2011 but due to his determination he was able to regain his independence and resume his roles within the FAI. Following this, Alan ran 35 marathons in 35 consecutive days raising €15,000 for the Irish Heart Foundation’s Stroke awareness campaign, the Football Village of Hope, a peace building football charity Milo was instrumental in establishing and also the NRH. 

Keen to assist the Irish Heart Foundation’s Stroke campaign and support the Solas Cancer Support Centre which his family used, Alan will begin swimming on the 13th May, swimming up to 6 hours a day in the Irish Sea until he reaches his home town of Waterford. 

Please keep an eye out and donate what you can to the Irish Heart Foundation bucket collectors at the upcoming Wales game 24th March. 

To make a charity donation or to help in anyway with corporate sponsorship, equipment or crew support please visit Alan’s website www.marathonman.co 

Colin O’Brien’s side scored two goals either side of half-time to claim all three points. Brighton’s Aaron Connolly bagged two first-half goals with Adam Idah and Jordan Doherty scoring early in the second half.

Slovakia beat hosts Cyprus 2-1 in the other game in Group 8. Ireland meet Slovakia in Paphos on Friday in their next fixture.

Galway native Connolly opened the scoring in the ninth minute when he got onto an excellent long pass from Nathan Collins on the left flank then cut in on his right foot before finding the net in the far corner with a top class finish.

Connolly hit the net once more in the 23rd minute when he got his head to a Lee O’Connor cross from the right to steer the ball home after good work in the build-up by Glen McAuley.

College Corinthians striker Adam Idah put Ireland 3-0 up just one minute into the second half when he connected with a sublime pass by Rowan Roache  before producing a clinical finish.

Just two minutes later Jordan Doherty grabbed the fourth Irish goal when he found the net following a Roache corner that Idah did well to cut back for Doherty.

"I’m very pleased with our start to the group. We’d a very positive approach to it and were the dominant side from the start. It was a very professional performance," said O’Brien.

"The  Faroes defended very deep early on and got lots of men behind the ball but we’ve been in that position before and the players knew how to manage it. We moved the ball well and we scored two good goals in the first half.

"In the second half, they came out and looked to press us and we took advantage when the opportunities arose.

"Slovakia are next. Recovery mode kicks in for us now. Tomorrow everything will be focused on getting everything right for Slovakia, who showed by beating Cyprus that they’re a good side and we’ll have to be ready for that challenge."

Republic of Ireland: Maher; O'Connor, Collins, Doherty, Ledwidge; Roache (Kavanagh 71), Bolger (O’Farrell 52), Coventry; McAuley, Idah, Connolly (Nolan 63).

Faroe Islands: B Reynatroo; Edmundsson, Fordason, Rasmussen, Petersen (Lokin 48); Solheim (Lioa 67), Olsen, Jacobsen; Giessing, Radosavlevic, Sigvardsen.

Referee: Jason Lee Barcelo (Gibraltar).

Fixtures
Friday, 17 March: Republic of Ireland v Slovakia, Paphiakos Stadium, Paphos (CYP), KO 13:15
Monday, 20 March: Republic of Ireland v Cyprus, Kouklia Community Stadium, Paphos (CYP), KO 13:00

Having beaten Serbia in their opening game in Group 4, Ireland were quietly confident of matching their opponents in this encounter. And so that proved to be the case.

Dave Bell knows how good his young team can be when attacking at pace and they showed that in this game with 17 attempts on goal and 35 breaks forward that put Scotland on the back foot.

As early as the eighth minute Ireland registered their intent with Carla McManus unloading a shot at goal that was blocked down. They kept the pressure on with Isibeal Carolan going close before she was substituted.

Ireland play a free-flowing game that tries to get in behind their opponents and they proved to be successful with that as Heather Payne and Alannah McEvoy wreaked havoc with their pace.

Scotland hardly had time to catch their breath in between chances as Tiegan Ruddy, Megan Mackey and Payne all went close in the first period. But they also had to stay alert with goalkeeper Erica Turner making a couple of fine saves.

After the interval it was more of the same from Ireland with McManus, McEvoy and Payne all unlucky not to break the deadlock. Then came the pulsating moment when McManus rattled the woodwork on 52 minutes.

Scotland made a few changes in an attempt to turn the game in their favour, but they found themselves spending most of the second period trying to limit Ireland and goalkeeper Jade Baillie was kept busy.

Ultimately, Bell's side could not find the goal that their positive play deserved so they had to settle for a draw - which leaves them on four points after two games, matching Hungary who beat Serbia 1-0 in the other game.

Next up is a showdown with Hungary on Saturday. Another positive result could see Bell's team finish as group winners and qualify for this summer's finals tournament in Czech Republic.

Republic of Ireland: Turner; Grier, Ruddy, Doyle; Carolan (Fahey 23), Spillane, Toland, Payne; McEvoy, McManus, Mackey.

Scotland: Baillie; Adderley, Eddie, Cameron, Laing (Santoyo Brown 58); McAlonie; Napier, McDonald (Welch 71), Muir; Cross, Davidson (McIntosh 53).

Referee: Vera Opeykina (Russia).

A victory for Colin O’Brien’s side could potentially seal their place in the finals in Croatia as the Slovaks beat mini-tournament hosts Cyprus on day one after the Irish beat the Faroe Islands 4-0.

But O’Brien insists his side must be ready to go all the way to the wire in the group if that’s what it takes to progress.

“The way the results went on day one puts us in a good position but it is unlikely that anything will be decided tomorrow. We have to really keep our concentration and focus on Slovakia and nothing else,” said O’Brien.

“We’ve recovered well since our opening game. All 18 players are available. We’re in a good position in regards to potential injuries or fitness concerns.

“We’ve looked at the footage of Slovakia’s win over Cyprus and they have got some physical players. In terms of how they play they’ve shown that they are a big threat on the counter.

“As with any game, we know that there are areas of their play that we have to be aware of and a few we can exploit.

“We’ve played teams like Slovakia before. They have a strong striker and good wide players. We’ll be prepared for the challenge.”

The Irish coach was more than pleased with his side’s display against the Faroes in the opening fixture but insists there will be room for improvement tomorrow.

“There are always areas you’d look to improve upon. The Faroes had an opportunity from a corner late on and we have to be careful not to concede. In tournament football clean sheets are critical,” he added.

RESULTS & FIXTURES

Wednesday, 15 March: Republic of Ireland 4-0 Faroe Islands, Paphos

Friday, 17 March: Republic of Ireland v Slovakia, Paphiakos Stadium, Paphos (CYP), KO 13:15

Monday, 20 March: Republic of Ireland v Cyprus, Kouklia Community Stadium, Paphos (CYP), KO 13:00