Glen McAuley’s 66th minute winner sealer the three points for the Irish and they are guaranteed a top two spot due to hosts Cyprus being held to a scoreless draw by Faroe Islands in the group’s other fixture today.

Colin O’Brien’s side will secure one of the best runner-up spots at the very least regardless of how they fare in their final group game against the Cypriots on Monday and the Irish boss is rightly proud of how his side has performed.

Slovakia beat Cyprus 2-1 on the opening day so were a tough opponent for O’Brien’s youngsters but Liverpool striker McAuley proved the difference with 14 minutes left.

Rowan Roache forced the game’s first save in the 12th minute that tested Slovak keeper Martin Trnovský and just over a minute later Aaron Connolly also forced a save from the keeper.

Blackpool winger Roache tested Trnovský once more in the 20th minute and once again it was the same pair involved in the 40th minute when the Slovak keeper kept out a Roache attempt to leave the sides scoreless at the break.

Ireland keeper Brian Maher proved his quality early in the second half to keep out efforts from Roland Gerebenits in the 52nd minute and an attempt by Denis Potoma after a Dávid Machara corner sixty seconds later.

Trnovský made another save to deny McAuley in the 56th minute then a minute later Adam Idah struck an upright with a shot from distance but ten minutes later former St Joseph’s Boys front man McAuley steered the ball home after an Irish counter-attack.

Although Slovakia pushed hard for an equaliser Ireland could have added a second goal in the 78th minute but the keeper kept out an Aaron Connolly effort.

“It was a tough game. We had chances and and Adam Idah hit the post with a strike from outside the box but we also had to rely upon our keeper Brian Maher making two very good saves,” said O’Brien.

“In the second half Glen McAuley did well to get behind their defence and finish well and we did what was required to see the game out. I felt we deserved the win on the day.

“Throughout the season we’ve been tried to educate them on the functions of the game and on top of that looking at how to address tournament play. It stood to us.

“It was a completely different type of game to the other day against the Faroes and we showed we could adapt.

“We deserve this as a group. The players especially deserve this, there’s great willingness to learn and they’ve worked so hard with all of the staff to keep developing as a team.

“People in the game back home, especially involved in the youth game, know there is a lot of good work going on. There’s a lot of talent in the country and the national team doing well shows we’re doing something right with our methods.

“It must be said that there is a lot going on around the country. Coach Education has improved so much in recent years. It’s a great day for everybody who has worked with the players since their earliest days, they began the development and we’ve added our bit onto that.

“Today is about celebrating a very good achievement. They’ll never forget this St Patrick’s Day and it’s a great occasion for their families and friends.

“They’ll recover tomorrow and Sunday we’ll prepare for the Cyprus game and we want to top the group if we can.”

Republic of Ireland: Maher, O'Connor, Ledwidge, Doherty, Collins, Bolger,  McAuley, Coventry, Roache, Idah, Connolly.

Slovakia: Trnovský, Kozák, Mišenko, Pišoja, Machara (Filipiak 77), Potoma, Gerebenits (Čerňanský 80+1), Murcko, Martišiak, Dávidík (Kmeť 72), Strachan.

RESULTS & FIXTURES

Wednesday, 15 March: Republic of Ireland 4-0 Faroe Islands, Paphos
Friday, 17 March: Republic of Ireland 1-0 Slovakia, Paphiakos Stadium, Paphos
Monday, 20 March: Republic of Ireland v Cyprus, Kouklia Community Stadium, Paphos (CYP), KO 13:00

Dave Bell's side are joint top of Group 4 alongside Hungary and the two teams meet on Saturday to decide who will go through to the finals tournament in Czech Republic this summer.

A win over Serbia, who are hosting these Elite Qualifying Round games, and a draw with Scotland has given Ireland the confidence that they can complete their objective and top the group.

Defender Sabhdh Doyle insists there is a positive atmosphere amongst the squad ahead of the game in Gradski Zemum, Belgrade. And that is something that they must make the most of.

"If we play to our potential then we believe that we can win the game," states Doyle, who has been a key player with this team for the last two years.

"We are a very good footballing team and we feel that we can match up to anyone at this level. We just have to play our game. We have to set the tempo and put them under pressure."

The months of preparation under Bell's stewardship have brought Ireland to this stage and the players are determined to play as a team in order to overcome the final obstacle.

Galway native Doyle admits that clinching qualification would be the ultimate reward for their hard work. However, she is fully focused on putting in one more big shift.

"I want to play with these girls for as long as possible. I want to play at a European finals with them. So we want to stick together and get there as a team," she says.

The narrow victory saw Dave Bell's side end their three Elite Round games unbeaten with seven points and top of Group 4 - having previously beaten hosts Serbia and drawn with Scotland.

A single goal from Heather Payne on 13 minutes proved to be enough for Ireland to claim the win that they needed, but they were the more dominant of the two sides and that was a common thread throughout their qualifying campaign.

Sometimes it takes a moment of magic to deliver a desired result and that is exactly what happened when Peamount United ace Payne used her wand of a foot to fire in a free-kick from distance. There was no looking back after that.

Including their Qualifying Round games, this Ireland team played six times, won five, drew one, scored 14 goals, conceded one, and twice topped their group. It is a remarkable achievement by the players, the management, and all of the backroom staff.

The finals tournament will be staged in Czech Republic from May 2-14.

Republic of Ireland: Turner; Grier, Ruddy, Doyle; Fahey (Spillane 53), McGovern, Toland, Mackey; Payne, McManus, McEvoy.

Hungary: Terestyenyi; Csolti, Fordos, Kovacs, Nagy; Pulins, Vachter (Dorner 73), Tolnai (Kovacs 52); Pintye, Nagy (Pusztai 51), Czeller.

Referee: Vera Opeykina (Russia).

Colin O’Brien’s side has already secured its place in the finals in May thanks to a 4-0 win over the Faroe Islands and a 1-0 victory over Slovakia but the Irish Head Coach wants to ensure they return home on a high.

Qualifying for the UEFA Finals in Croatia in his first season as Head Coach of the side is a brilliant achievement by O’Brien, his staff and the players and they will look to maintain the high standards they have set for themselves.

“Our aim is to top our group and maintain the work we’ve done this week,” said O’Brien.

“At the moment everybody is fine. We had a light day on Saturday then picked it up again today in preparation for the final game in the group. Once again all 18 players are fit which is a credit to everybody involved.

“We’ve seen plenty of Cyprus in their opening two games. They’ll be a wounded animal at this point with hurt pride and will want to end the tournament with a win. However we’ll be fully focused on ourselves while being aware of their threats.

“The defensive side of things has been a target this week for our players. They wanted clean sheets and they’re a determined bunch of boys and I know they would like to end the competition with another game without conceding a goal.”

RESULTS & FIXTURES

Wednesday, 15 March: Republic of Ireland 4-0 Faroe Islands, Paphos
Friday, 17 March: Republic of Ireland 1-0 Slovakia, Paphiakos Stadium, Paphos
Monday, 20 March: Republic of Ireland v Cyprus, Kouklia Community Stadium, Paphos (CYP), KO 13:00

The Three FAI International Football Awards took place in RTE Studios this evening with 21 awards presented. The ceremony celebrated all aspects of Irish football from the past twelve months, with players from the FAI Football For All programme right up to the senior men's team honoured. 

Robbie Brady was a big winner on the night, scooping the Senior International Player of the Year, Young International Player of the Year, and 'Three' International Goal of the Year - the first time that one player has picked up three awards at the ceremony.

The full list of winners:

2016 'Three' FAI International Football Awards

Senior International Player of the Year: Robbie Brady

Senior Women's International Player of the Year: Karen Duggan

Young International Player of the Year: Robbie Brady

'Three' International Goal of the Year: Robbie Brady v Italy

Under 21 International Player of the Year: Callum O'Dowda

Under 19 International Player of the Year: George Poynton

Under 19 Women's International Player of the Year: Roma McLaughlin

Under 17 International Player of the Year: Declan Rice

Under 17 Women's International Player of the Year: Saoirse Noonan

Under 16 International Player of the Year: Jordan Doherty

Under 16 Women's International Player of the Year: Tyler Toland

Under 15 International Player of the Year: Callum Thompson

Junior International Player of the Year: Stephen Kelly (Newmarket Celtic)

Intermediate Player of the Year: Mark Horgan (Avondale United)

Football For All International Player of the Year: Paul McMahon (Football For All Under 19 Squad)

FAI School's International Player of the Year: Conor McCarthy (Scoil Mhuire ages Smal, Blarney)

FAI Colleges & Universities Player of the Year: Paul Rooney (Maynooth University)

SSE Airtricity League Player of the Year: Daryl Horgan (Dundalk)

Hall of Fame: Robbie Keane

Special Merit: Dundalk FC

International Personality: John Hartson 

The Football Association of Ireland expresses its sympathies to the family of Ryan McBride after the Derry City defender passed away suddenly.

The Derry native made his debut for his hometown club in 2011 and quickly became a favourite amongst the supporters for his committed style of defending.

McBride twice appeared in the FAI Senior Cup Final, as a substitute in 2012 in the win over St Patrick's Athletic and as a starter in 2014 in the loss to the same team, while he also made over 100 League appearances for Derry.

FAI CEO John Delaney said: "Irish football is in mourning with the loss of a true great of the game, with the shocking news about Ryan McBride's passing.

"I would like to pass on my deepest condolences to Ryan's family, friends, and his club, Derry City FC, for which he was their leader, their captain and their inspiration.

"On behalf of the FAI Board and everyone in the Association, I would like to offer our sympathies to all who were blessed to have known Ryan.

"Ryan's passing has left a deep shock throughout football. We will remember Ryan with a tribute at Friday night's FIFA World Cup qualifier against Wales."

FAI Director of Competitions Fran Gavin added: "I am shocked at the sad news of Ryan's passing. I saw Ryan in action for Derry City against Drogheda United recently, where he was outstanding as he so often was for his team.

"Our thoughts are with his Ryan's family and all at Derry City at this very sad time. It is a terrible blow to the SSE Airtricity League and to everyone in football to lose such a great player."

As a mark of respect to Ryan's loss, the SSE Airtricity League Premier Division game between Derry City and Limerick - due to take place on Tuesday, 21 March - will be rescheduled.

The majority of players reported into camp on Sunday ahead of the 'Three' FAI International Football Awards in RTE Studios, while others arrived over the course of Monday.

Injury has ruled out Rob Elliot (knee), Paul McShane (hamstring), Ciaran Clark (knee), Liam Kelly (hamstring), Harry Arter (calf), Wes Hoolahan (quad), and David McGoldrick (knee).

However, Robbie Brady will remain with the squad in spite of being suspended for the Wales game, as he will be available for the 'Three' International Friendly against Iceland on Tuesday, 28 March in Aviva Stadium.

Republic of Ireland Squad

Goalkeepers: Darren Randolph, Keiren Westwood, Colin Doyle
Defenders: Seamus Coleman, Cyrus Christie, Richard Keogh, Alex Pearce, John O'Shea, Andy Boyle, John Egan, Stephen Ward
Midfielders: Aiden McGeady, Glenn Whelan, James McCarthy, Jeff Hendrick, Robbie Brady, Conor Hourihane, David Meyler, Eunan O'Kane, James McClean, Jonathan Hayes, Daryl Horgan, Callum O'Dowda
Forwards: Jonathan Walters, Shane Long, Daryl Murphy, Kevin Doyle

Colin O’Brien’s side had already ensured their place in the UEFA U17 Finals in May after the second series of games but Aaron Connolly’s double ensured they would top the group with nine points and three clean sheets.

Faroe Islands surprisingly finished runners-up in the group after a 2-1 win over Slovakia in the other fixture in the group.

Connolly fired over from a free-kick early on but Cyprus wasted a massive opportunity in the tenth minute when the lively Ioannis Costi set-up Andreas Katsantonis in front of goal but his strike was well off target. 

Six minutes later Brandon Kavanagh was unlucky to see a well struck free-kick touched onto an upright by home goalkeeper Rafail Pittadjis.

In the 26th minute Irish keeper Brian Maher produced a decent stop to keep out Giannis Gerolemou’s strike from the edge of the box.

Defender Jordan Doherty was well placed to head away a powerful strike from Michalis Ioannou on the half hour.

After soaking up the early spell of pressure, Ireland took the lead on the stroke of half-time when Connolly raced through onto a Kavanagh pass to go on and round the keeper before slotting into an empty net.

Ireland were unlucky not to extend their lead in the 57th minute when a stinging drive from Conor Coventry was palmed away by the home keeper.

In the 82nd minute Connolly was unfortunate not to add a second when his strike was deflected narrowly over following good work down the right by Rowan Roache.

Connolly duly wrapped it up three minutes into injury time when he drilled to the bottom corner after Adam Idah cut the ball back to the edge of the box. The final whistle blew moments later.

“Cyprus attacked with a lot of numbers especially in the first half. We sorted ourselves out defensively and did well in the second half,” said O’Brien.

“I can’t credit the lads any higher today. They had to defend well, organisation was a priority and they did very well in that function of the game. We could have wrapped it up earlier but it’s been a very positive note to finish the group off.

“The players were a credit to themselves this week. There were a few tired bodies at the end but they’ve given great commitment to the cause this week and got their reward by topping the group."

CYPRUS: Pittadjis, Sergiou, Karayiannis, Andreou (Louka 66), Costi, Toumazou (Andreou 49), Ioannou (Raounas 59), Gerolemou, Shelis, Katsantonis, Genethliou.

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND: Maher, O'Connor (O’Farrell 41), Ledwidge, Doherty, Collins, McAuley (Idah 59), Coventry, Connolly, Kilkenny (Roache 66), Kavanagh, Nolan.

RESULTS

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

Friday, 17 March: Republic of Ireland 1-0 Slovakia, Paphiakos Stadium, Paphos

Monday, 20 March: Republic of Ireland 2-0 Cyprus, Kouklia Community Stadium, Paphos 

The Republic of Ireland Under 19s will continue their quest to reach the UEFA European Championships by taking part in three Elite Round qualifiers in Belgium.

Paired with Belgium, Italy and Sweden in Group 7, Ireland must finish as group winners to qualify for the finals.

The plan is to go all of the way to the finals in Georgia, which will be held in July, but Mohan knows just how difficult that task will be considering the quality of the opponents in their group.

‘The aim is to qualify, and to qualify we’ll have to top the group. We’ve done a lot of analysis on all the teams in the group, but at the moment our big focus is on Italy. We can’t look beyond the first game.

‘We will be doing our utmost to add to what has already been a fantastic week for Irish underage football following the success of the boys and girls U17s.’

Mohan has had a chance to fine tune his squad this week prior to flying out to Belgium, and despite injury ruling key players out of contention, the Under 19 Head Coach is pleased with how preparations have gone.

‘The training camp has gone well. The majority of players have come in injury free which is a bonus though some players have been unable to train through injury and our medical team is working on having them available for the Italy game.

‘Connor Ronan who had been excelling with the Wolves first team recently has been ruled out of the three games, he picked up an injury a couple of weeks ago. Another player absent is Steven Kinsella who was injured last weekend while Jake Doyle Hayes is also unavailable for the first two games through suspension.’

‘However, we’ve still got a lot of quality players and the strength of the 18 we have selected shows the depth we have available to us at both under 18 and under 19 level. A number of Jim Crawford’s under 18 squad have forced their way into the squad following some very good performances at under 18 international level and club level. The players are in good form, they’re focused and ready to face the task ahead,’ Mohan added.

Mohan, along with his fellow coaching staff, Dermot O’ Neill and Mick Neville, all former Derry City players, also expressed their sympathies to the family of Ryan McBride after the Derry City defender passed away suddenly on Sunday.

‘A number of our players would have played against Ryan this season. His untimely passing was a big shock to the group and it is a sad time for Irish football. From the whole group, the staff and the players, we’d like to pass our condolences onto the McBride family and friends, as well as Derry City Football Club.’

Republic of Ireland Under 19 Squad


Goalkeepers: Caoimhin Kelleher (Liverpool), Mark Travers (Bournemouth)


Defenders: Corey O'Keefe (Birmingham City), Canice Carroll (Oxford United), Darragh Leahy (Coventry City), Conor Masterson (Liverpool), Declan Rice (West Ham United), Conor Kane (Drogheda United), Tyreke Wilson (Manchester City)


Midfielders: Zack Elbouzedi (West Bromwich Albion), Jayson Molumby, Daniel Mandroiu (Brighton & Hove Albion), Conor Levingston (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Stephen Mallon (Sheffield United), Daniel McKenna (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Trevor Clarke (Shamrock Rovers)

Forwards: Michael O'Connor (Shamrock Rovers), Ronan Hale (Birmingham City)

Fixtures


Thursday, 23 March: Republic of Ireland v Italy, FC VW Hamme, Belgium, KO 18:00


Saturday, 25 March: Republic of Ireland v Sweden, Freethiel, Beveren, Belgium, KO 13:00


Tuesday, 28 March: Republic of Ireland v Belgium, Freethiel, Beveren, Belgium, KO 18:00

The Women's National Team face Slovakia on Monday, April 10th, with kick-off at 2pm at Tallaght Stadium as Bell looks to build on their impressive Cyprus Cup campaign.

Bell's side secured fourth spot in the tournament, their highest-ever finish, with wins over Czech Republic and Wales, a draw to Hungary before eventually losing to Korea DPR in the third/fourth-placed match.

With a number of the younger players, Roma McLaughlin, Amanda McQuillan and Leanne Kiernan, set to feature for the Women's U19s side in the UEFA Elite Round phase, Bell has selected an experienced squad for the friendly.

Glasgow City defender Keeva Keenan has been called up to the WNT Squad for the first time since June 2016 and Shelbourne stopper Niamh Reid-Burke also returns to the squad.

Shelbourne Ladies forward Siobhan Killeen has also been called into the squad as well as Manchester City midfielder Megan Campbell.

Head Coach Colin Bell said: "I'm really looking forward to my first home game with Ireland. It's really important that we look to recapture the form we had in the Cyprus Cup.

"We'll also have more time to train in camp which will be great for me to look at our shape and style of play in more detail, and also get to know the players even more.

"I've brought in Keeva Keenan who has performed well in Scotland this season and has been on my radar so it will be great to get to work with her. It's also great to have Julie-Ann available after missing the Cyprus Cup and I'm looking forward to working with her.

"The young players will all stay with the U19s and hopefully help them qualify for the European Championships through the Elite stage. I'll be going out with the U19s myself before I'm in camp with the senior team and I'm looking forward to getting to know them as well." 

Republic of Ireland WNT squad v Slovakia

Goalkeepers: Emma Byrne (Brighton and Hove Albion Women), Marie Hourihan (Manchester City Women), Niamh Reid-Burke (Shelbourne Ladies)

Defenders: Sophie Perry (Brighton and Hove Albion Women), Diane Caldwell (SC Sand), Louise Quinn (Notts County Ladies), Harriet Scott (Reading Women), Savannah McCarthy (Glasgow City), Jetta Berrill (UCD Waves), Keeva Keenan (Glasgow City)

Midfielders: Megan Campbell (Manchester City Women), Karen Duggan (UCD Waves), Denise O'Sullivan (Houston Dash), Megan Connolly (Florida State Seminoles), Ruesha Littlejohn (Celtic FC Women), Stephanie Roche (Sunderland Ladies)

Attackers: Julie-Ann Russell (UCD Waves), Aine O'Gorman (UCD Waves), Katie McCabe (Arsenal Ladies), Claire O'Riordan (Wexford Youths), Siobhan Killeen (Shelbourne Ladies), Clare Shine (Cork City WFC) 

The Republic of Ireland Men's National Team continued their preparations for Friday's 2018 FIFA World Cup Qualifier against Wales with a session at the FAI National Training Centre.

Seamus Coleman, Jonathan Hayes and Shane Long sat out training as a precaution, while James McCarthy underwent a session with Head of Fitness Dan Horan.

Meanwhile, Daryl Murphy has left the squad due to a calf injury.

Republic of Ireland Squad

Goalkeepers: Darren Randolph, Keiren Westwood, Colin Doyle

Defenders: Seamus Coleman, Cyrus Christie, Richard Keogh, Alex Pearce, John O'Shea, Andy Boyle, John Egan, Stephen Ward

Midfielders: Aiden McGeady, Glenn Whelan, James McCarthy, Jeff Hendrick, Robbie Brady, Conor Hourihane, David Meyler, Eunan O'Kane, James McClean, Jonathan Hayes, Daryl Horgan, Callum O'Dowda

Forwards: Jonathan Walters, Shane Long, Kevin Doyle

The CWSSL League made contact with FAI Coach Education Manager, Niall O’Regan, through Marie O'Leary, looking for an innovative way of introducing more coaches within the League. 

O’Regan identified that the focus should not be on players at the end of their career but rather the development of players who are currently playing and also at the start of their careers at Under 16 upwards. This would ensure that the players are benefiting from the knowledge of a coach and allowing this knowledge being used in their own respective playing careers and also in their development and understanding of coaching.

There was coaches from all areas of Cork City and County, with 74 coaches and players attending ranging from 16 – 70 years of age. O’Regan was joined by FAI Development Officer for Cork and Ireland Women’s U17 Head Coach Dave Bell, to deliver the workshop.

O’Regan spoke very positively about the workshop: “The workshop is a credit to those involved in the game in Cork, the dynamic of the room was amazing, to have you players from 16 years of age to coaches who have over 30 years’ experience in the room, sharing ideas, discussing the new approaches, and methodologies was phenomenal and it was such an interactive, engaging and powerful atmosphere.

"For Dave (Bell) and I it was all about introducing the new coaching methodologies and demonstrating how we plan to enhance the number of coaches both male and female working in the game, with a significant emphasis on increasing the number of female coaches that we have qualified at National Licence Level. It was very special to have Dave there having just secured qualification to the U17’s Finals, and also having Saoirse Noonan who had picked up the Underage International Player of the Year, so it was a really positive evening."

The success of this workshop will ensure that it’s a programme that we’ll look at rolling out around the country. The success of the workshop and having over 70 people in the room from all ages and involved at all levels of the female game was excellent and it is a program we are looking to launch geographically around the country.

O’Regan concluded: "As part of the work shop we are working with the League to develop a specialist education program which will see the coaches complete the required contact hours and qualification to be acknowledged as National D Licence coaches, and because of the specialist nature of the course we are able to deliver the course with a significant discount which is an added benefit to the coaches and those in attendance. The program will see each of those attending being acknowledged with a workshop certificate of attendance and for any qualified licence holders they are able to access CPD for the event."

For more information please email women@fai.ie

The FAI in conjunction with FIFA continues to coordinate one of FIFA’s very successful campaigns to introduce more females to the game of football.  The ‘Live Your Goals’ campaign outlines clear messages, that women’s football is an authentic and attractive expression of a modern lifestyle.  It shows optimism, fun belonging and physical beauty.  Women’s football is not just socially accepted but highly respected and has become an integral part of football development in the country. Goals’ was launched and promoted in 2011 as part of the FIFA Women’s World Cup in Germany.  

The first event of the year took place in MDL Grounds in Navan and over 100 girls took part in the Festival of Football.  Leanne Kiernan and Lynne Craven from our Women's National Team (Snr & U19) attended our coaching zone, showing the young girls skills, signing autographs and posing for photos.

Sue Ronan, FAI Head of Women's Football, spoke of the importance of these young girls to keep involved in the game, as they are the future of the National teams.  “We are delighted to yet again be involved in the FIFA Live Your Goals campaign.  Last year we ran a very successful campaign nationwide and many girls were introduced to the game. 

"It gave the girls the opportunity to attend our Women’s National League and International games.  This year, we are delighted to be able to bring these Festivals of Football to each of our 8 regions as we begin to promote this year’s campaign in the build up to the World Cup Qualifying games later this year. 

"Young girls will have the opportunity to meet the national league or national team players at the festivals and as a result have role models to aspire to."

The FIFA Live Your Goals campaign is a great opportunity for all the local international and national league players to share their experiences with young fans, giving them advice and encouragement for them to stay involved in the game no matter what level they play at, and maybe even inspire a few more to become future international players.

This year’s events take place in:

- Meath, MDL Grounds, Sat 11th March
- Roscommon, Lecarrow, Sat 25th March
- Leitrim, Leitrim Village, Wed 18th May
- Kildare, Tougher Park, Sat 20th May
- Limerick, Broadford United, Sun 21st May
- Dublin, Irishtown Stadium, Sun 28th May
- Kerry, Killarney Celtic, Wed 7th June
- Kilkenny, TBC, FAI AGM Festival of Football in July
To register your daughter or a whole group / school / team go to www.fai.ie/fifalyg or for more information email women@fai.ie 

The Republic of Ireland Men's National Team completed their third day of training at the FAI National Training Centre in preparation for the 2018 FIFA World Cup Qualifier against Wales.

Seamus Coleman, James McCarthy, Jonathan Hayes and Shane Long all returned to training, thus giving manager Martin O'Neill a full squad for the session.

Republic of Ireland Squad

Goalkeepers: Darren Randolph, Keiren Westwood, Colin Doyle

Defenders: Seamus Coleman, Cyrus Christie, Richard Keogh, Alex Pearce, John O'Shea, Andy Boyle, John Egan, Stephen Ward

Midfielders: Aiden McGeady, Glenn Whelan, James McCarthy, Jeff Hendrick, Robbie Brady, David Meyler, Eunan O'Kane, Conor Hourihane, James McClean, Jonathan Hayes, Callum O'Dowda, Daryl Horgan

Forwards: Jonathan Walters, Shane Long, Kevin Doyle

Tom Mohan’s side were drawn in a qualifying group which remarkably mirrors the senior team’s UEFA Euro 2016 group with Belgium and Sweden also making up the remaining teams.

Only the group winners will progress to the finals in Georgia in July so the margin for error is very small and Mohan would love to recreate the scenes made famous by Robbie Brady’s winner against the Italians last summer.

The task will be difficult as the Italians topped their qualifying round group ahead of Hungary, Switzerland and Armenia and boast several young talents who are beginning to make the breakthrough in Serie A.

Striker Andrea Pinamonti made his debut for Inter Milan earlier this season, Patrick Cutrone has been on the bench for AC Milan this term and Marco Tumminello made one appearance for Roma last season.

Midfielder Filippo Melegoni has also made his Serie A debut for Atalanta, defender Claud Adjapong has seven Serie A appearances for Sassuolo, Riccardo Marchizza has been on the bench regularly for Roma and keeper Alessandro Plizzari is the regular number two keeper to Gianluigi Donnarumma at Milan.

Ireland came through a top qualifying round also with wins over Albania and Gibraltar to finish runners-up to Germany and Mohan knows that at their best his side can rock the Italians tomorrow.

“We’ve had four good days together training in Johnstown House, arrived in Belgium last night and trained well so we’re looking good ahead of the opening game," said Mohan.

“A few of the players had games at the weekend and had a few knocks but the medical staff has done great work and everybody is ready for the game.

“In a group as tight as this there will be very few second chances with just one team going through to the finals. Every game will be like a cup final. Our players have prepared very well and are looking forward to the challenge.

“Italian teams are always well organised and take great pride in their defensive game while being clinical at the other end too. In these games it’s down to taking the chances and defending well and I feel we can do that.”

While memories of UEFA Euro 2016 are still fresh in the minds, Mohan’s players will recall facing the Italians at the UEFA U17 Championships in Bulgaria two years ago when they matched the Azzurri for long periods.

Only the brilliance of Donnarumma denied the Irish a result in Stara Zagora on that occasion but he is now in Italy's senior squad.  

“The boys can take great confidence from the performance when they met in Bulgaria two years ago but our squad has evolved since with a number of players born a year younger coming in to strengthen us further,” he added.

“Italy got to the UEFA U19s finals last year and are obviously strong at underage but our players are focused and know that Irish teams have beaten Italian teams in the past.

“We’ll be reminding the players of the Robbie Brady goal last year so maybe one of them can step up and be the hero for us tomorrow.”

FIXTURES

UEFA U19 Championships Elite Qualifying Round Group 7

THURSDAY, MARCH 23: Republic of Ireland v Italy, Hamme (Bel) (6.00pm Irish)

SATURDAY, MARCH 25: Sweden v Republic of Ireland, Freethiel, Beveren (Bel)(1.00pm Irish)

TUESDAY, MARCH 28: Belgium v v Republic of Ireland, Freethiel, Beveren (Bel)(6.00pm Irish)

St. Francis College, Rochestown 1-0 Rice College, Westport

Gordon Walker (86)

Gordon Walker was the hero for St. Francis College, Rochestown with a dramatic late winner to capture the Bank of Ireland FAI Schools  Dr. Tony O’Neill Senior Cup in a narrow 1-0 victory over the ten men of Rice College, Westport in the National Final at Home Farm FC, Whitehall this afternoon (March 22).

It a was a historic day for the Cork School who have picked up the National Senior Cup for the first time ever and next week will aim to complete a double when their Junior side face St. Eunan’s College, Letterkenny in the Tom Ticher Cup Final as the same venue.
 
The closely contested decider appeared to be heading for extra time when Walker struck the decisive score against the run of play with four minutes remaining.

Substitute Ross Slevin set up the goal when he picked out Walker on the right of the Rice College area with a clever pass.

The unmarked Cobh Ramblers midfielder then took a neat touch before firing in a low drive past a helpless ‘keeper Patrick O’Malley.

Ironically Rochestown have once again rescued an important game with a late goal after David O’Sullivan’s 88th minute winner in their semi-final win over St. Aidan’s CBS, Whitehall earlier this month.

This defeat was hard on the Mayo side who even after going a man down in the first minute of the second half when midfielder Cian McAllister was sent off following a second yellow card they went on to dominate most of the game.

Following that set back they still looked the more likely side to open the scoring after creating the bulk of the chances. 

Jack Murphy hit the side netting from a close range indirect free kick, Emmet Rowley’s pile driver tested Rochestown ‘keeper Matthew Collins and Paul Doyle was narrowly wide with his long range effort.

Rochestown defended well with centre backs David Nason and James Sheehan outstanding but they seemed unable to mount any worthwhile passing movements relying on hopeful long balls forward that never quite worked out.

Only a couple of well delivered corners from Rory Doyle looked like yielding anything for the Cork boys.

Walker headed just wide from one of them while later Ross Slevin saw his half volley cleared off the line by Eoin Conway.

Later Slevin put another shot over the bar from Mark O’Connell cross.

The first half action had been even enough, Rice College had chances but a Peter Corcoran shot was well saved by Collins and after Paul Doyle was set up by Rowley he put his effort well over.

At the other end O’Sullivan played in O’Connell but his strike was well wide. 

While the winning goal eventually came in a rare Rochestown attacking move it came close to being cancelled out in the final minute when Kevin Kilkelly burst into the Rochestown box but Rob Slevin was on hand to clear the danger with a brilliant saving tackle and the Bank of Ireland Dr. Tony O'Neill Senior Cup was safely on its way to Cork. 

Player of the Match

There was some consolation for the Westport side as playmaker Paul Doyle was awarded the accolade for his fantastic performance for Rice College that afternoon.

RICE COLLEGE, CASTLEBAR | Paddy O’ Malley, Michael O’ Brien (Captain), Eoin Conway, Pat Lambert, Brian O’ Malley, Cian McAllister, Jack Murphy, Killian Kilkelly, Emmet Rowley, Paul Doyle, Peter Corcoran

SUBS | Cian Dunne, Luke Tunney for Rowley (80), John Keane, Rory Brickenden, Cian Kennedy, Gareth Jordan, Darragh Lavelle-Fabby, Daniel McGovern, Oísin Moran, Jack Carney, Keith Carolan-Joyce

TEACHERS | Brendan Clarke & Colin McConway

ST. FRANCIS COLLEGE, ROCHESTOWN | Matthew Collins, Ger O’Mahony, James Sheehan, David Nason, Rob Slevin, Donagh Gribbon, Seán Hillard (Captain), Gordon Walker, Mark O’Connell, Dave O’Sullivan, Padraig Hickey

SUBS | Rory Doyle, Ross Slevin for Hickey (66), Niall Brennan, Andrew Hickey, Mark Donlon, Dónal McGrath, Stephen Griffin, Stephen Fox (injured)

TEACHERS | Eoin O’Flaherty & Nevin Connick

REFEREE: Mark Whelan (Dublin)

ROLL OF HONOUR

Conor Levingston’s first half goal followed by a second half Ronan Hale penalty sealed a memorable victory for Tom Mohan’s side, who sit on top of the group after the first series of games following host nation Belgium’s 2-1 victory over Sweden earlier today.

With just one side qualifying for the finals in Georgia this summer there is little room for slip-ups for any side so this win today is a tremendous boost to Ireland’s chances of making the finals.

The Irish looked lively from the off with Brighton striker Dan Mandroiu testing Italian keeper Mattia Del Favero in the third minute.

After several near misses the Irish broke the deadlock in the 34th minute when Levingston broke up an Italian passage of play then played a one-two with Hale before steering the ball past the advancing keeper.

Ireland were unlucky not to add a second goal just three minutes later when Mandroiu hit the Italian crossbar.

Irish keeper Caoimhin Kelleher kept out a strike from Filippo Melegoni before half-time but the Boys in Green were worthy of their half-time lead.

Mandroiu brought another save out of Del Favero five minutes after the break but as expected Ireland had to weather an Italian storm for a period of time after the restart.

Kelleher kept out efforts from Marco Tumminello, Nicolo Zaniolo and Patrick Cutrone as Italy pushed hard for an equaliser.

Ireland went two up after a brilliant run by Trevor Clarke was ended with a Marco Varnier foul in the penalty area and Hale stepped up to fire home the 73rd minute spot-kick to copperfasten Ireland’s control on the game.

Kelleher kept out efforts from Luca Zanimacchia, Cutrone and Andrea Pinamonti in the final ten minutes but Ireland showed the resolve required to seal the three points.

“We did very well and I’m very pleased for the players. In the first half we were the better side. After we scored we also hit the bar and could have been more than 1-0 up at the break,” said Mohan.

“Italy were always a threat in the second half but our forwards looked very good too. Our midfield were dominant in the first half and we were a threat in wide areas so we put it up to Italy.

“The Italians came out all guns blazing to equalise but our defence was outstanding in that period. Trevor Clarke had a brilliant run for the penalty and Ronan Hale buried it to give us some leeway.

“Caoimhin dealt with what they threw at us but our defence forced them to shoot from distance. Our defenders were excellent.

“We’ll do the recovery sessions in the morning then take it from there. Our total focus now is Sweden on Saturday and we’ll look at the areas we have to improve. This game is gone and it was a job well done but there’s a lot of football to be played in this group.“

A minute’s silence was held prior to kick-off in memory of the late Ryan McBride.

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND: Kelleher, O'Keeffe, Masterson, Rice, Wilson, Levingston, Elbouzedi, Molumby, Hale, Mandroiu (McKenna 84), Clarke.

ITALY: Del Favero, Scalera, Llamas, Melegoni, Vogliacco, Adjapong (Pinamonti 75), Cutrone, Tumminello (Zanimacchia 75), Varnier, Gabbia (Zaniolo 63), Frattesi.

RESULTS & FIXTURES

UEFA U19 Championships Elite Qualifying Round Group 7

THURSDAY, MARCH 23: Republic of Ireland 2-0 Italy, Hamme (Bel)

SATURDAY, MARCH 25: Sweden v Republic of Ireland, Freethiel, Beveren (Bel)(1.00pm Irish)

TUESDAY, MARCH 28: Belgium v v Republic of Ireland, Freethiel, Beveren (Bel)(6.00pm Irish)

Martin O’Neill’s Republic of Ireland side welcome Wales to the Aviva Stadium this evening in a crucial FIFA World Cup qualifying match.

O’Neill goes into the game without the services of five players that started in the last outing of the campaign away to Austria with Shane Duffy, Ciaran Clark, Harry Arter and Wes Hoolahan all missing out through injury. Robbie Brady is suspended for this evening’s clash after picking up his second booking of the qualifying stage in Vienna.

Positive news for O’Neill was the return to training this week of Seamus Coleman, Shane Long, James McCarthy and Jonny Hayes after they sat out the earlier sessions of the week.

Republic of Ireland squad

Goalkeepers: Darren Randolph, Keiren Westwood, Colin Doyle

Defenders: Seamus Coleman, Cyrus Christie, Richard Keogh, Alex Pearce, John O'Shea, Andy Boyle, John Egan, Stephen Ward

Midfielders: Aiden McGeady, Glenn Whelan, James McCarthy, Jeff Hendrick, David Meyler, Eunan O'Kane, Conor Hourihane, James McClean, Callum O'Dowda, Daryl Horgan, Jonathan Hayes

Forwards: Jonathan Walters, Shane Long, Kevin Doyle

*Robbie Brady has been training with the squad but is suspended for Friday

Ticket Information

The match is officially sold out and there will be no tickets available around the stadium.

A Ticketmaster van will be in place for collections from 4.30pm on the corner of Lansdowne Road and Northumberland Road.

FAI ticket collections will be from Lansdowne Football Club from 2pm until kick-off.

Gates open to the stadium for general admission at 18:15 while Premium and Corporate Box levels open at 17:45. All bars will be open throughout the stadium.  

Official Match Programme

The completely revamped Official Match Programme will be on sale for €5.  Special features in the programme includes an exclusive interview with Alan Judge on his Ireland debut, the Keith Andrews column, Sean St Ledger’s Ireland XI, the all-new kids zone, and much more. 

Social Media 

For all breaking news including the exclusive announcement of the Republic of Ireland starting XI and behind-the-scenes content, follow our official Facebook, Instagram and Twitter accounts.

Noel King’s side contains numerous fresh faces at this level who have graduated from the U19 international set-up and the Irish Head Coach is energised for the start of a new campaign.

Ireland have also brought in Bournemouth striker Joe Quigley, Sheffield Wednesday defender Connor O’Grady, Aston Villa midfielder Ronan Hale and Derry City forward Ronan Curtis for the first time.

“Training has gone well with week. The mood is good in the camp. There’s that sense of excitement ahead of a new campaign,” said King.

“A lot of players who are with us have been here for a while and there are a few new faces too so it’s a matter of trying to gel them together to develop that sense of being a team.

“In the last campaign we used the likes of Josh Cullen, Harry Charsley, Olamide Shodipo and Connor Dimaio. We hope that they know a lot about what is required at this level now and will use that experience to guide the others.

 “The players can’t wait to get started. Injuries wise all has been fine bar the loss of Jake Mulraney before the squad came together.”

Kosovo’s players are playing their first ever U21 international fixture after the nation was given UEFA and FIFA approval last year.

Looking for information on a side that has never played a game before is no easy task but King is expecting a testing encounter that his players can meet head on.

“We don’t know what we’re facing in terms of our opponent but we will treat them with the highest respect,” he added,.

“There is a great tradition of football in their country. We have to be intelligent in how we play, how we defend and attack and we will underestimate nobody.

“It’s up to everybody to prepare properly – staff and players. We’’ll have a positive mindset and will try to win the game. I hope we’ll get the support of public too as the players thrive on having a good home crowd behind them.”

FIXTURE

UEFA U21 European Championships Qualifying Round - Group 5

SATURDAY, MARCH 25: Republic of Ireland v Kosovo, Tallaght Stadium, KO 13.00

Tom Mohan’s side moved to the top of the group with a brilliant 2-0 win over Italy on Thursday and a victory over the Swedes in the Belgian town of Freethiel (1.00pm) would put them within touching distance of reaching the finals.

Only one side from each group will qualify for the finals tournament in Georgia this summer so while the good start has been a boost to the Irish Mohan knows that there is still room for twists and turns in the group. Sweden lost 2-1 to Belgium yesterday.

“With so much at stake there can be no complacency and the players have shown a really good attitude and mindset here this week,” he said.

“We did a recovery session today. There are a few slight knocks but nothing that will rule anybody out of tomorrow’s game we hope.

“We’ve been analysing Sweden and it was a very close between them and Belgium. They are a strong physical side, well-organised and, like all teams at this level, they have good attacking players.

“They are also dangerous from set-pieces with their size and strength so we have to be mindful of that.

“There are always areas we can improve upon but I felt our overall game against Italy was very good.

“In the first half particularly we were very sharp and obviously Italy got back into it and took a while for us to get out in the second half but we finished well. However you can’t look beyond tomorrow’s game. Yesterday is done and dusted.”

RESULTS & FIXTURES

UEFA U19 Championships Elite Qualifying Round Group 7

THURSDAY, MARCH 23: Republic of Ireland 2-0 Italy, Hamme (Bel)

SATURDAY, MARCH 25: Sweden v Republic of Ireland, Freethiel, Beveren (Bel)(1.00pm Irish)

TUESDAY, MARCH 28: Belgium v v Republic of Ireland, Freethiel, Beveren (Bel)(6.00pm Irish)