Peamount United 6-2 Cregmore/Claregalway

While it was Cregmore/Claregalway who took an early lead courtesy of a Sinead Donovan penalty on 12 minutes, it was the Dublin side who always looked the more threatening outfit and were level within three minutes, when Aisling Spillane cracked a stunning effort into the top corner from 30 yards.

The Galway side certainly asked question of the visitors in the opening half Aoife Thompson, Ciara Fogarty and Andrea Trill certainly extended their back four, but as time moved on Peamount looked the quality outfit.

They took the lead on 31 minutes, when a near post Doireann Fahey corner took a deflection off Trill and put them 2-1 ahead.

Shortly afterwards, Cregmore/Claregalway had a great opportunity to level matters, but Thompson scooped a close range effort over the bar.

The resumption saw Peamount United add an early third, as just two minutes had elapsed when Gillian Keenen was fouled in the box and captain Shauna Martin drilled the spot kick past Karen Connolly to make it 3-1.

The home side almost responded as a cross shot by Andrea Trill struck the crossbar, before a Sinead Donovan corner flew across the face of goal as it cried out for a touch.

However, the silky skills of Louise Masterson, Carla McManus, Aisling Spillane and Issy Finnegan kept Peamount on the front foot and after Masterson was denied by a smart Connolly save, McManus applied a solo finish to make it 4-1 on 55 minutes. Doirean Fahey was denied by a Caitlin Quinn goal line clearance, before the home side pulled one back as Emma Connolly fired a low shot into the bottom corner to make it 4-2.

Then, after Mastersoon was thwarted by the crossbar at the other end, Peamount added two more goals in additional time through Niky Plunkett and Masterson to give them a 6-2 margin, as they were crowned worthy FAI U18 Cup champions.

PEAMOUNT UNITED: Niamh Coombes, Ciara Maher, Chloe Singleton, Shauna Martin, Issy Finnegan, Aisling Spillane, Aoife Brophy, Doireann Fahey, Louise Masterson, Carla McManus, Gillian Keenan.

Substitutes: Leah Doyle, Mel Mulaney, Michaela Fox-Walsh, Niky Plunkett, Robyn McEvoy, Clara Mulligan, Keelin McEntee, Orla Hackett.

CREGMORE/CLAREGALWAY: Karen Connolly, Jordan O’Connor, Caitlin Quinn, Aoife Phillips, Maeve O’Connell, Cliona Ni Coichlain, Sinead Donovan, Claire Conry, Ciara Fogarty, Andrea Trill, Aoife Thompson.

Substitutes: Emma Connolly, Rebecca Downes, Ciara Murphy, Deidre Walsh, Emma Conancur, Claire Talty, Angie Dempsey.

Referee: Martin Hatchett (Midlands).

FOOTNOTE

The Final saw one of the Cregmore/Claregalway management in a new light, as Noel Connolly – better known as the award winning grounds man at Eamonn Deacy Park sitting in the dugout, as opposed to his usual duties of organising everything in the Stadium on a normal match day.

Cregmore/Claregalway 3-2 Kilmore Celtic

For the duration, the Galway side were the better team as they build up a three goal advantage early in the second half, but a spirited recovery by the Dublin visitors made it competitive until the final whistle.

The home outfit made the perfect start when Saoirse Healy put them ahead on 4 minutes with a cracking solo goal, as she cut in from the wing and placed a low shot beyond Robyn Murray to make it 1-0.

With Challene Trill and Sara Cogley outstanding at the back for Cregmore/Claregalway, the visitors were getting little chance to impress in attack, as home custodian Hannah Walsh was afforded great protection.

With Player of the Match Shauna Brennan, Aoibheann Costello, Kate Slevin and Healy a constant threat, the home side continued to create the majority of chances. They made it 2-0 on 31 minutes, when an Allannah Griffin free kick was pushed away by Murray, only for Brennan to return the ball to the danger area and Healy had the easiest of tap ins for her second of the day.

Now the Galway side appeared to have put the game to bed when they made it 3-0, just four minutes after the restart. Again, Brennan was the provider as Costello applied the finish in a one on one situation with Murray.

Quickly Kilmore Celtic responded to the challenge and with Tirin Hand, Fiona Maddigan, Dominique Darby and Lara Phillips to the fore, they pulled one back on 46 minutes when Keisha Hutton volley home a cracking effort from the edge of the box.

The margin was reduced to the minimum just three minutes later, when a free kick from out near the sideline by Rugile Auskalnyte flew into the far corner of the net to close up matters at 3-2.

The set back did not appear to upset the home side as they continued to pour forward and it was only the excellence of goalkeeper Robyn Murray that kept the contest alive. Twice she made terrific saves to thwart Costello, before also denying Laura Scanlon. 

Finglas based Kilmore Celtic almost rescued it in the closing stages when an Emma McGrath shot got the better of Walsh, but the outstanding Challene Trill got back to clear the goal bound effort off the line.

The outcome saw Cregmore/Claregalway crowned champions and the victory was a fitting reward for a small club in a rural area about five miles from Galway City.

CREGMORE/CLAREGALWAY: Hannah Walsh, Chloe Flaherty, Eabha O’Riordan, Sara Cogley, Challene Trill, Allannah Griffin, Laura Scanlon, Kate Slevin, Saoirse Healy, Aoibheann Costello, Shauna Brennan.

Substitutes: Emma Burke, Annagh Moran, Ailbhe Sexton, Ruby Duggan, Ciara Culliane.

KILMORE CELTIC: Robyn Murray, Charlie Murray, Tegan O’Shaughnessy, Rugile Auskalnyte, Tirin Hand, Fiona Madigan, Emma McGrath, Dominique Darby, Lara Phipps, Michaela Gavagan, Keisha Hutton.

Substitutes: Roisin Ahmed, Roisin Brady, Goodness Agbinosun, Ella O’Toole, Emma Lester, Zoe Matthews.

Referee: John Mulroe (Mayo).

FAI President Tony Fitzgerald said the elevation to the Executive Committee of UEFA was a “fantastic achievement for our CEO John Delaney and is a hugely positive reflection of Irish football in Europe.”

“John has led the FAI successfully for more than 10 years overseeing the development of the game, initiating major infrastructure improvement and managing the financial well-being of the Association in the most challenging of times,” he said. 

“His success within UEFA reflects the impact his work and that of the Association has had during his tenure as CEO on all strands of the game from Grassroots to elite football,” Fitzgerald added.

“John’s strategic capabilities set him apart. His passion for the development of the home of football – the Aviva Stadium, in conjunction with the IRFU and the Government, the FAI National Training Centre in Abbotstown and the winning of major tournament bids including the UEFA Europa League Final in 2011, UEFA Under-17 European Championships in 2019 and UEFA EURO 2020 are just some examples of the drive, determination and professionalism which earmarked John as a likely successful candidate within European football’s highest ranks.  

"It is really a great boost for Irish football that John has successfully been elected to the UEFA Executive Committee,” Fitzgerald concluded.

John Delaney said he was both “honoured and delighted” to become a UEFA Executive Committee member. 

“I want to thank the football family in Ireland for their hard work and support on behalf of our sport. Our success today reflects their endeavours as they drive football on every day and every week,” said Delaney.  

“I represent the 400,000 members of the football community in Ireland and I am privileged to lead the game at Executive level. However, the mainstay of our game are the volunteers – our Board, Council, Committees as well as our clubs and leagues – all of which I represent in my role as CEO and now UEFA Executive Committee member.

“While Ireland may be regarded as one of the smaller footballing nations, we are known for punching above our weight and I look forward to bringing our voice and our views and experiences to the table in UEFA. I am looking forward to working with President Čeferin and my fellow UEFA Executive Committee members for the benefit of football throughout Europe in the coming years,” he said.

Minister of Transport, Tourism and Sport, Shane Ross TD, said today: “I would like to congratulate John Delaney on his election to the UEFA Executive Committee. 

"This is a hugely positive development for Irish sport and for football, which will now have a significant voice at the decision-making end of the European game.”

Minister of State for Tourism and Sport, Patrick O’Donovan TD, stated: “John Delaney’s election to the UEFA Executive Committee raises the profile of Irish football, it is a positive step to have someone at the top table of European football.” 

Kieran Mulvey, Chairman of Sport Ireland, also congratulated John Delaney on his election saying: “On behalf of Sport Ireland I would like to congratulate John Delaney on his election to the UEFA Executive Committee. This is a very positive development, as one of the findings in the Rio Review, which is published today, is that Ireland needs more representation on international federations to influence decisions at the highest level. Sport Ireland welcomes that there will be an Irish voice on a key international federation.”

The Republic of Ireland Women’s Under-19 will be looking to bounce back from Tuesday’s Elite Round defeat to Scotland when they face Ukraine in Limerick on Thursday evening. 

Dave Connell’s side were defeated by a 95th minute penalty in their opening group game, with the Irish Head Coach lamenting the performance of his side.

"I thought we were pretty poor in the first half - not up to our usual standards. We were a bit better in the second half, but overall, I thought we were second best. I'd have been happy with a point but unfortunately it's a bitter pill to take in the end. We can play a lot better than that."

Ireland know a win is required to keep their qualification hopes alive, with suspension and injuries a concern for Connell in the build up to the tie. “Leanne (Kiernan) picked up a yellow so that puts her out of the game now. We took a chance bringing her on - she hasn't been training.

"Jess (Nolan) took a knock, Saoirse (Noonan) took a knock - we've a few casualties and we'll have to review that,” he said.

Another bumper crowd is expected in Markets Field, with Connell adding that three points is the aim for the home side. "All we have to do is try and win the two games. We'll pick the heads up and try get back into the reckoning as quickly as we can.”

UEFA European Women's Under-19 Elite Round Fixtures / Results 

Tuesday 4 April 2017

Scotland 2-1 Republic of Ireland, Markets Field, Limerick 

Finland 5-0 Ukraine, Jackman Park, Limerick 

Thursday 6 April 2017

Finland v Scotland, Jackman Park, Limerick (3.00pm)

Republic of Ireland v Ukraine, Markets Field, Limerick (7.00pm)

Sunday 9 April 2017

Republic of Ireland v Finland, Markets Field, Limerick (2.00pm)

Ukraine v Scotland, Jackman Park, Limerick (2.00pm)

Republic of Ireland Women's Under 19 Squad to face Ukraine

Goalkeepers: 1. Amanda McQuillan (Shelbourne Ladies), 16. Naoisha McAloon (Peamount United)

Defenders: 2. Lucy McCartan, 5. Chloe Moloney (Peamount United), 15. Fiona Donnelly, 6. Jamie Finn, 17. Lynn Craven, 11. Niamh Prior (Shelbourne Ladies)

Midfielders: 10. Alex Kavanagh, 8. Roma McLaughlin (Shelbourne Ladies), 12. Evelyn Daly, 9. Saoirse Noonan (Cork City WFC), 4. Niamh Farrelly (Peamount United), 3. Jessica Nolan (Manulla), 13. Dearbhaile Beirne (UCD Waves)

Forwards: 14. Eleanor Ryan Doyle (Peamount United), 18. Lauren Kelly (UCD Waves)

Discussions between both sides came to a successful conclusion earlier this morning, where all ‘Issues to be addressed’, as outlined by the Players, were successfully resolved.

Following the positive outcome to the mediation process the Players confirmed that they will return to training today, in preparation for their international fixture against Slovakia on Monday at Tallaght Stadium.

The Association is pleased that both sides have reached common agreement and a settlement, which allows the two parties to move forward together as one, in the best interests of Irish football. 

Following an opening defeat to mini tournament hosts Romania, Alex Whelan's team hit back in their second game as they overcame Albania in a tight encounter.

Donnacha McCarthy popped up in the 22nd minute to score the only goal of the game, cutting in quickly on the left-hand side after receiving a cleverly switched pass from Kevin Kelly before driving a hard low shot in at the near post.

Ireland dominated possession after that but time and again hit the frame of the goal or the Albanian keeper made superb saves, however they did enough to secure the three points and a historic win.

Whelan was full of praise for his team and hoped that they would carry their confidence into Thursday's final group game against Georgia. However, they slipped to a narrow 1-0 defeat.

As a result, Ireland just missed out on a place in the semi-finals and will instead compete for 5th place on Saturday.

Ireland Team: Darren McGarry, Donnacha McCarthy, Paul Costello, John Doherty, Darragh Stakelum, Kevin Kelly, Matthew Kearney

A Ukraine side that shipped five in their Elite Round opener against Finland were put under pressure from the off and it only took Ireland forty seconds to pull ahead.

Good work in midfield played Dearbhaile Beirne in down the left and her cross caused Natalia Zinchenko's charges all sorts of problems. 

Failing to clear at the third attempt, Lucy McCartan snuck in to toe-poke past Bondarchuk to give Ireland the best possible start. 

Quick feet from Alex Kavanagh saw her evade two challenges before unleashing a daisy-cutter from twenty-plus yards midway through the first half. The effort was out of the reach of Bondarchuk, but just struck the outside of the post.

The points would have been sealed twenty minutes from time if not for a good acrobatic stop from the busy Bondarchuk. 

A quick Ireland throw caught their Ukrainian counterparts unawares, allowing substitute Saoirse Noonan to advance. She picked out Jess Nolan, but the netminder did well - saving to her right. 

The decisive goal would arrive a minute before time, however. After a sublimely weighted pass from the boot of Roma McLaughlin, Saoirse Noonan took a touch to set herself before calmly finding the bottom corner to confirm the result.

Republic of Ireland: McQuillan; Craven, Farrelly (Donnolly, 90), Moloney, Prior; McCartan, Kavanagh; Finn (Noonan, 63), McLaughlin, Beirne; Nolan (Kelly, 81).

Ukraine: Bondarchuk; Kozub, Budaieva, Koleschuk, Derkach; Rybalkina, Polyukhovych; Kumeda, Kozolva, Shevchuk (Hryb, 77); Kuninan.

Referee: A Soeder (GER)

The Irish students were heading into this game on the back of two late wins against Wales and Northern Ireland which saw them sit top of the leader board. Scotland on the other hand were finishing their campaign with a home fixture which they desperately wanted to win.  

A well worked set piece from a corner saw Calvin McGrory pin point Banner who dispatched past Irish goalkeeper Bell for the opener which proved the most decisive move of the game.

Substitute goalkeeper Ross Connelly was introduced at half time and his heroic display ensured a clean sheet for the tartan army and a full three points to end their season on a high.

Three games remain in the Shield as Wales host Northern Ireland in Cardiff next Wednesday. The Northerners have been reenergised with a magnificent 4-1 victory away to England last month as well as a late winner with Scotland to see them on six points with the Republic and Scotland now.

Their final game in this contest will be of interest as O’Reilly’s crew watch on. The Welsh have lost against Scotland and the Republic and need some much needed points in their endeavours this season as they host reigning Champions England in the final game of the series on April 21 in Bristol.

The Republic of Ireland will dust themselves down as they have a quick turnaround when they face England this Thursday in Home Farm FC. A must win for O’Reilly’s side if he is to keep his title ambitions alive and cause an upset for the defending Champions.

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND | Jamie BELL (St. Columba’s College, Stranorlar), James CARROLL (St. Oliver’s Community College, Drogheda), Darryl WALSH (St. Declan’s Community College, Waterford), Evan MURPHY (St. Enda’s College, Salthill), Alec BYRNE (Carrigaline Community School), John MAHON (Coola Post Primary School), John MARTIN (Presentation De La Salle, Bagenalstown) (Captain), Ronan MANNING (Calasanctius College, Oranmore), Connor GORMLEY (Loreto Community School, Milford),  Conor LAYNG (Athlone Community College), Steven NOLAN (St. Aidan’s CBS, Whitehall)

SUBS USED | Neill BYRNE (Dunshaughlin Community College), Seán McBRIDE (St. Columba’s College, Stranorlar), Seán McDONALD (Clonkeen College, Blackrock),Tunmise SOBOWALE (Mount Sion CBS, Waterford)

SUBS NOT USED | Paul MARTIN (Presentation De La Salle, Bagenalstown), Vinny QUINLAN (Gorey Community School), Jack RYAN (Templeogue College)

SCOTLAND | Ronan Fallens, Kyle Banner (Captain), John Kelly, Luc Bollan, Calvin McGroary, Euan O’Reilly, Cameron Ballantyne, Adam Brown, Matthew Reilly, George Stanger, Jamie Chapman

SUBS | Ross Connelly for Fallens (HT), Nathan Brown for Stanger, Cieran Dunne for A Brown (65), Robbie Bruce for Ballantyne (89), Adam Kirkwood for Reilly (90) Kieran Sweeney

2017 Centenary Shield

Results

February 16         Republic of Ireland 2-1 Wales                       Home Farm FC, Whitehall (2.30pm)

March 2                Northern Ireland 1-2 Republic of Ireland Bangor Fuels Arena, Bangor FC (3pm)

March 3                Scotland 1-5 England                                       Cappielow Park, Greenock (7pm)

March 17              Wales 1-5 Scotland                                            Bala FC (7pm)

March 24             England 1-4 Northern Ireland                       Torquay United FC (7pm)

March 31              Northern Ireland 2-1 Scotland                      Cliftonville, Belfast (3pm)

April 6                   Scotland 1-0 Republic of Ireland                 Renfrew Park (7pm)

Fixtures

April 12                  Wales vs Northern Ireland                             Cardiff Metropolitan University FC (7pm)

April 13                  Republic of Ireland vs England                   Home Farm FC, Whitehall (7pm)

April 21                  England vs Wales                                              Bristol Rovers FC (7pm)

Ireland will meet Serbia on Thursday, May 4 (3.30pm Irish) at Stadium Rujevica, Rijeka.

On Sunday, May 7 (3.30pm Irish), Ireland will meet Bosnia & Herzegovina at Stadium Kostrena in Kostrena.

Their final group game is against Germany on Wednesday, May 10 (11.00am Irish) at Stadium Rujevica, Rijeka.

The top two in each group will progress to the last eight.

The final tournament will also act as the European qualifier for UEFA's five berths in the 2017 FIFA U-17 World Cup in India, running from October 6 to 28.

Ireland produced their best forty-five minutes of the Elite Round in the opening half. With the numerical advantage in midfield, Roma McLaughlin, Lucy McCartan and Alex Kavanagh dictated play and controlled the tempo.

Speaking after the game, Head Coach Dave Connell said he felt the scoreline didn't reflect the game at all. He explained:

"It was a funny game. Hitting the woodwork four times and creating a couple of really good clear-cut chances that we failed to put away - we were unlucky. There was no way that was a three-one game, even the Finnish manager said it. The difference was that they put their chances away."

Connell's charges created a glorious opportunity just six minutes into the contest, when brilliant feet from Alex Kavanagh afforded her space to slip Leanne Kieran through on goal. Her effort appeared goalbound but rattled the underside of the crossbar, and was eventually cleared by the Finnish backline.

Despite the excellent start, Finland hit the front on twenty-six minutes. A corner from the right-hand-side was delivered into the danger area. Juuli Ketola rose highest to head towards goal and her effort smacked off the underside of the crossbar. The assistant referee on the near side indicated the ball had crossed the line, much to the dismay of Ireland 'keeper Amanda McQuillan.

Leanne Kiernan had a great chance to level matters early in the second half when she charged down the right. Her shot could only find the side-netting though. From here, Ireland were punished. Emmaliina Tulkki's cross from the left found Eveliina Summanen at the back post and her low drive beat McQuillan.

Five minutes later, they would move further ahead. Breaking from an Ireland corner, Jutta Rantala gained possession shy of the halfway line. From here, she jinked past a defender before smashing a brilliant strike into the far corner to put the result beyond doubt.

Niamh Prior ended the campaign on a positive note however - giving the Markets Field crowd a moment to remember when her thirty-five yard free kick rocketed into the net with three minutes left on the clock. Roma McLaughlin was dissmissed in injury time after receiving a second yellow from Croatian referee Ivana Martincic.

Connell believed that while they didn't achieve their overall goal of qualification, his players deserve a lot of credit.

"We wanted to do better in the Elite Round - we wanted to do it on our home soil. Maybe we didn't get the rub of the green. We had a few injuries coming into it - we hadn't the ideal preparation coming, but that's football. We won't make any excuses. I'm very proud of them for all their efforts and I'd like to thank them for everything," he said.

932 was the official attendance on the day, but the Elite Round had been well received on Shannonside, with a lot of interest locally. Closing with praise for the city, Connell complimented everything Limerick had to offer both himself and his squad.

"It was great that the FAI decided to come down here. I'd like to thank everyone - the facilities have been great - the pitch, the hotel - everything. It was great to hear the national anthem be sung out with such enthusiasm. I'd like to thank the people of Limerick," he finished.

Republic of Ireland: McQuillan; Finn, Farrelly (Craven, 85), Moloney, Nolan (Beirne, 66); Kavanagh (Kelly, 77), McCartan; Kiernan, McLaughlin, Prior; Noonan.

Finland: Rajatalo; Lehtola, Pikkujamsa, Schrey, Pietikainen (Toivanen, 46); Rinkinen (Rousti, 90), Tulkki, Summanen, Mikkola; Rantala, Ketola (Lappalainen, 55).

Referee: I Martincic (CRO)

The 20-year old attacking midfielder is currently going through an exam period for her Social Science degree at Florida State University but flew into camp on Saturday to represent her country.

The last time Connolly played for the Republic of Ireland WNT at Tallaght Stadium, Cork-born Connolly notched her first ever senior goal in the 9-0 win over Montenegro.

Despite the late entry into camp, Connolly says she is feeling good and can't wait to play back at Tallaght Stadium tomorrow, with kick-off at 2pm.

Connolly said: "I'm really excited to get back and play at Tallaght Stadium. Especially after the Cyprus Cup, I think that has really set the tone for us for what we want going forward.

"I'm feeling good, I was able to get a good sleep in and it was good for me to get out and train because that really helps me recover.

"Since coming in, we're doing everything right off the pitch so hopefully we'll be able to get it right on the pitch."

Despite being in the off-season period at Florida State University, Connolly was one of the star performers in the Cyprus Cup squad, starting three of the four games.

Ireland progressed to the 3rd/4th placed match for the first time ever at the tournament and Connolly believes the squad have set a standard for the future.

Connolly continued: "It was a new start and it went really well so we're all really excited. We know what we want and we've laid the foundations for the future now.

"We're excited to come back to Ireland with what we've learnt and impress. It was really good for me to get back into international football and I think the team is definitely improving."

It will be Colin Bell's first home game as Head Coach since taking on the role in February and Connolly says it has been an honour to work with the UEFA Women's Champions League winning manager.

Connolly added: "It's been great working with Colin Bell. He has the experience to take us all the way. It's just an honour to be in the room with him and get to work with him.

"We know that his goal is exactly what we want as well so we're all working together for that.

"Hopefully, we can get some really good support tomorrow who could drive us on and get another great result this year."

Republic of Ireland v Slovakia
Date: Monday, April 10th
Kick-off: 2pm
Venue: Tallaght Stadium
Tickets: €5 adults/€2 Children/FREE for SSE Airtricity League season ticket holders

Stephanie Roche’s second-half penalty was the difference as Head Coach Colin Bell got a win in his first home game since his appointment in February.

The contest started slowly and it wasn’t until the 39th minute that Ireland created the first opportunity of the game. Megan Connolly found space to thread a neat through-ball to Houston Dash star Denise O’Sullivan who ran on goal to have her first effort saved and her follow-up parried behind brilliantly by keeper Lucia El Dahabiova.

Straight after the break, Ireland took the lead as Connolly controlled a right-sided cross near the penalty spot and was brought down for the referee to award a penalty. Roche stepped up to put the ball to the keeper’s right and put Ireland into a deserved lead.

Slovakia failed to threaten throughout the match and were unfortunate not to fall further behind when the brilliant Katie McCabe picked up the ball on the half-way line to dart past two defenders, turn inside but her shot was well saved by the in-form El Dahabiova.

Nine minutes from the end, El Dahabiova was beaten but defender Alexandra Biroova came to her rescue when O’Sullivan hooked the ball into the area for the on-rushing Roche to flick the ball past the keeper but the defender slid in to clear.

McCabe deserved a goal in what was an inspirational performance from the Tallaght-born attacker and two minutes from the end, McCabe picked the ball up in the centre-circle, drove at the defence but her curling effort was  well saved once again.

Head Coach Colin Bell: “Delighted for the players to get the win. They’ve worked really hard in training this week and I’ve seen plenty of progress from the squad.

“Winning is a habit and since coming in, I think the players are beginning to pick it up and today, they gave the opposition very few opportunities which was great.

“It was only a 1-0 lead but I always felt like we were comfortable against a good Slovakia side so when you count today and the Cyprus Cup performances, we’re definitely moving in the right direction.

“I feel like we’re in a much stronger place now and really looking forward to getting the players back in for the Iceland and Scotland games in the summer.”

Republic of Ireland: Byrne (Hourihan 46), Perry, Scott, Quinn, Duggan, Caldwell, O’Gorman, Connolly (Russell 74), O’Sullivan, Roche (Littlejohn 86), McCabe (O’Riordan 89).

Subs not used: Reid-Burke (GK), McCarthy, Berrill, DeBurca, Shine, Keenan.

Alex Whelan's team travelled to Romania with the hope of clinching qualification to this year's European Championships on what was their very first taste of international football.

An opening loss to mini tournament hosts Romania did not the team back as they overcame Albania 1-0 in their next group game - thanks to a goal from Donnacha McCarthy.

However, a narrow loss to Georgia ruled them out of contention and they had to settle for a 5th/6th Place Play-Off against Albania, which they lost 1-0 as fatigue finally caught up with them.

A mix-up in defence allowed Albania to capitalise on 11 minutes and that proved to be the only goal of the game. Still, Ireland dominated possession and created a number of good chances but ultimately couldn't break down their opponents.

Ireland finish their first ever international tournament in 6th place, which is a creditable effort so soon into their development and showed that there is great promise for the future.

"Obviously, we're disappointed with losing our final game of the tournament but the big picture is that we are now on the international blind football map and the game is an attractive option for blind people in Ireland," said Whelan.

"The two regional centres, in Dublin and Cork, offer recreational training sessions and we hope to recruit a number of new players as a result of the positive media around this tournament and perform even better at next year's competition."

Ireland: Darren McGarry, Donnacha McCarthy, Paul Costello, Darragh Stakelum, Kevin Kelly, Matthew Kearney, John Doherty

Packie Holden’s side will meet holders Sheriff YC in the May 13 decider at the Aviva Stadium after they came from behind to make it 1-1 and force extra-time before prevailing 4-2 in the shootout.

A penalty from Danny Browne eight minutes before the break gave the Roscommon outfit an interval lead but Mikey Drennan equalised on 68 minutes in an action-packed tie played in front of 2,200 fans.

Both goalscorers missed their spot-kicks in the shootout which followed but Evergreen held their nerve, with captain Neil Andrews slotting home the decisive penalty.

Boyle had given their large support plenty to cheer about in the first half by starting impressively and dictating the tempo. 

Luka Roddy couldn’t keep his volley down when a free-kick was only half-cleared by Evergreen to the edge of the box and Mick Corrigan had a decent penalty claim turned down when he fell under the challenge of Dylan Whearty.

There was little hesitation from referee Paul Duddy in awarding a spot-kick when Packie Holden bundled over Dessie Carlos after the goalkeeper’s attempt to retrieve a fluffed clearance backfired. Browne stepped up to send Holden the wrong way.

Although Drennan’s header tested Kyle Suffin in the last action of the opening half, Evergreen were far from their fluid best in the opening half and it took the introduction of Daragh Walshe at the break to provide some impetus in attack.

His presence began to pose problem for Boyle and gradually the Kilkenny side asserted their dominance, deservedly equalising when a throw-in was allowed drift to the back post for Drennan to sweep home with a low half-volley.

Boyle’s best chances of regaining the lead came from the trusty left-foot of full-back. His free-kick from an acute angle with 17 minutes remaining rebounded off the crossbar and he was a yard off-target with another blistering effort.

Walshe conjured Evergreen’s best chance of nicking it in stoppage-time, sprinting clear from the halfway line only to take a heavy touch to allow Suffin snuff out the danger. 

Drennan might have sealed it for Evergreen in extra-time from a near-post header which flashed wide and though he missed the first penalty of the subsequent shootout, the former Shamrock Rovers striker was be at the Aviva Stadium next month for the finale.

Sheriff secured a fifth final appearance in six years by edging out Killarney Celtic, also on a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw, on Saturday evening away to Killarney Celtic at Mastergeeha.

The Kerry side began the brighter with Matt Keane missing a couple of golden chances to put them ahead. His first effort was hacked off the line and then Lee Murphy foiled the midfielder after he broke clear following a swift counter-attack.

After the break, it was the holders taking the initiative as John Lester and Mark Higgins wasted openings. They didn’t force the breakthrough until two minutes into the second period of extra-time, with substitute Thomas Dunne punishing a defensive lapse.

Matters looked bleak for Celtic when they lost Chris O’Leary to a second yellow card moments later but they earned a last-gasp penalty from a foul on Pat McGrath and James Spillane converted.

Sheriff goalkeeper Lee Murphy atoned for conceding that penalty by saving two of Killarney’s efforts and scoring his own spot-kick in the shootout to seal victory.

BOYLE CELTIC: K Suffin; D Carlos, S Purcell, J Connolly G McDermottroe; M Corrigan, S Battles, L Conboy (A Calpin 71), D Browne; N Brennan, L Roddy (A Murren 71).

EVERGREEN: P Holden; T Earls, N Andrews, D Whearty, R Quane; L Delaney (D Walshe 46), D Barcoe (D McQuillan 94), B Jordan, C Whearty (B Hickey 62); M Drennan, C English.

Referee: P Duddy (Donegal).

This is a new venture by the CWSSL in conjunction with the FAI, who are hoping to attract new players to take up the game, and it is only open to women over the age of 18, and not registered with a club in the league.

The games will be seven-a-side and played on the astro-pitch over the four weeks of April.

Teams will consist of a panel of 10, and the cost of entering is free as part of a promotional push by the CWSSL and the FAI, with the support coming from UEFA to cover the cost of entry.

“This idea is an FAI supported venture and we are hoping companies and businesses will take part,” Matt Robinson of the CWSSL said.

“We are targeting new players and emphasising that this is a fun, recreational league for those interested in taking part. If you are currently playing with a team in any of our leagues, you cannot play in this competition.

“That way all teams are starting at the same level and afterwards if they want to continue playing soccer, then they can join a team in the league, or enter their own company into the league.  

“The beauty of this competition is that it is just for four weeks initially.  Games will take place for the four Wednesday nights in Mayfield Football Club on their new astro pitch and the time of the games will be between 7.30 and 9.30pm.   “Teams will be given their fixtures in advance and they will then be in a position to plan their work and home life around the games.”

Emma Martin, FAI National Coordinator for Women’s Football, who is working with the CWSSL in running the league, is hoping that companies and businesses will come on board and enjoy taking part in this new recreational league.

 “In recent years there has been a drop off globally in the number of females participating in competitive games.   We are address this by introducing the recreational game.  Where there is no commitment to weekly club sessions and competitive fixtures.  This is an ideal way for women of all ages to get out, get active and get social  So whether you’re a beginner or looking to get back into playing after a spell on the sidelines why not get together with some work mates and sign up.  It is a recreational league, where the important aspect will be of having fun and enjoying playing soccer,” Emma Martin said.

 “It will be well organized by the CWSSL and the FAI, teams will know their fixtures and every game will be refereed by a qualified referee.  What we are trying to do with this seven-a-side format is to encourage new players to take up the game or get back involved.”

All games will be played in Mayfield Football Club, Mayfield on Wednesday 5th, 12th, 19th and 26th.  

Anyone interested in joining the recreational league is asked to email cwssleague@gmail.com for competition rules and entry forms.

All those interested need apply by March 20th at the latest.

The FAI Aviva Soccer Sisters Club Programme was very successful in Co. Limerick. Six clubs participated in total, three from the Limerick County League, (Cappamore Celtic, Murroe FC & Herbertstown AFC) and three clubs from Limerick Desmond League, (Abbeyfeale United, Broadford United and Newcastle West Rovers). The Soccer Sisters Club Programme is aimed at girls aged 7-12 years old.

The programme ran for six weeks with the help of an FAI staff member and two volunteers from the host club. The FAI supported the volunteers with a PDP 1 or PDP 2 as a token for lending their support during the first six weeks and then they will continue the programme for another six weeks without FAI staff present. The host club also received a bag of weighted footballs, cones and bibs to help support the programme. At the end of the programme all registered participants received a special FAI Soccer Sisters t-shirt.

The programme was run on a separate night to the clubs regular training night. The girls received coaching sessions from a different coach than they are used to, learned new skills and participated in small sided games. Clubs are encouraged to continue the Soccer Sisters Club Programme and hopefully transform it into their girls’ academy.

The club programme was timed so that the participants would feed into one of the five available FAI Aviva Soccer Sisters Easter camps around Co. Limerick and then hopefully participate in the FAI Summer Soccer Schools.

There is a FIFA Live Your Goals event also scheduled for May in Co. Limerick, which will be held at Broadford United, one of the venues of the FAI Aviva Soccer Sisters Club Programmes. It is at this event where girls football is celebrated and advertised, all participants and volunteers are encouraged to attend.

Out of the 236 girls who participated in this programme across the six clubs, 41 girls were not members of the host clubs. During this programme the girls made new friends and are now all members of their host clubs.

At the end of March, 90 complimentary tickets for the girls U19 International games in the markets field in Limerick were distributed between the six soccer sisters clubs.

“The FAI Aviva Soccer Sisters Club Programme in Broadford has a great turn out with almost 70 girls from 7-12 years old. There are some new faces of girls who are currently not playing soccer with any clubs. They all really enjoyed it, especially the dry evenings! It re-vitalised our coaches to be coaching older or younger age groups than they are familiar developing themselves as coaches in the process. The programme also revitalised players by having different coaches, a different voice on a different night. It was a great experience for some of our newer and younger coaches. It was good for our club and players to have the support of the FAI and our local FAI development officer Barry McGann to help to run the programme.” – Joan Croke, Broadford United’s PRO and girls coach.

“The FAI Soccer Sisters Club Programme is great, sometimes the girls are a bit intimidated in mixed camps but here they are very comfortable when it’s just girls. FAI Soccer Sisters encouraged new players to try soccer for the first time which was great for Murroe FC. The programme allowed girls to learn new skills and have fun with friends at the same time. The Soccer Sisters coaches learned new practices and games to help enhance their football sessions.” – Sarah Fitzgerald, Murroe FC U12 girls coach

“The Abbeyfeale United FAI Soccer Sisters Club Programme was a great success with the help of our local FAI coaches. The girls had a lot of fun, enjoyment and really loved the atmosphere it generated. Of course they also learned new skills which they took back to their club level soccer.” – Kathleen Broderick, Abbeyfeale United Secretary and girls coach

What a month we've just had in the SSE Airtricity League with some simply outstanding goals scored.

The result of this is that the Goal of the Month contenders are arguably the best collection we've ever had. Check out the nominees below..

The youngest Irish international squad will finish out their season with games against Norway and the Czech Republic in the mini-tournament. They face the Norwegians on Tuesday April 18 and the Czechs two days later.

Ireland's U15s have played four internationals this season with double-headers against Poland in November and the Netherlands in February.

"It's our final event of the season with the U15s. We're using these games to have a look at some new players who've done really well in their ETP centres and with their clubs," said Donohue.

"In preparation for these we've looked at improving our shape from the last games against the Dutch and building on the 1-1 draw we got in the second game over there.

"This will be a three-team triangular tournament so it's a new experience for the players. We've looked at videos of both sides. They each have a different style of play. The Czechs are an open attacking side that scores a lot of goals while Norway are a little more direct but still very competent on the ball. 

"This will be a great learning tool for the players to get used to playing different opposition in a short space of time at such a young age and can only help their development towards the 2019 UEFA U17 Championships Finals tournament which we're hosting.

"We've played St Pat's U17s, Bohs U17s and Shamrock Rovers U17s in some preparation games recently so I'd like to say thanks to those teams for facilitating us."

Donohue is delighted with how the squad has developed over the course of the international season.

"When I look at the progression from where we started off to where we are now I feel we've made huge strides in dealing with the speed of the game, learning to defend as a team and also that in attack you really need to take your opportunities. They have always showed that they've been learning so we're pleased," he added.

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND U15 SQUAD:

Matt Everett (Brighton & Hove Albion)
Jimmy Corcoran (Cherry Orchard)
Ronan McKinley (Finn Harps)
Josh Guirgi (Leixlip Utd)
Jack Funge (St Kevin’s Boys)
James Furlong (St Joseph's Boys)
Armstrong Okoflex (Arsenal)
Gavin Bazuna (Shamrock Rovers)
Brandon Holt (Belvedere)
Cian Kelly (St Joseph's Boys)
Sean Kennedy (Tralee Dynamos)
Seamus Keogh (Sligo Rovers)
Karl O'Callaghan (St Kevin’s Boys)
Matthew Healy (College Corinthians)
Sean McEvoy (St Kevin’s Boys)
Troy Parrott (Belvedere)
Timi Sobowale (Villa FC)
Alex Dunne (Belvedere)

FIXTURES
U15 Invitational Tournament
Tuesday, April 18
Republic of Ireland v Norway, Artima, Prague (2.00pm Irish)

Thursday, April 20
Czech Republic v Republic of Ireland, Brozany nad Ohří (3.30pm Irish)

Since taking charge of the national team in February 2017, Bell has led the team to three victories in his first five games. Ireland reached the 3rd/4th-placed match in the Cyprus Cup for the first time ever and claimed a 1-0 victory over Slovakia in Monday's friendly match at Tallaght Stadium.

With a strong Continental Tyres Women’s National League representation in Colleges and Universities football, Bell will have the opportunity to test players in competitive tournament football against some of the best young players in the world.

FAI National Co-ordinator for Schools and Third Level Football Mark Scanlon expressed his delight that the WNT Head Coach will take charge of the team.

Scanlon said: “To have someone of the calibre of Colin involved is a fantastic endorsement for the work we do at Third Level. 

"With his level of experience in the game and current role with the seniors, it will be a massive incentive for the players to first of all represent their country on the world stage and to work closely with Colin and make a case for a senior call-up in the future.”

Republic of Ireland WNT Head Coach Colin Bell said: "I'm delighted to take on the role of Head Coach for Team Ireland at this summer's World University Games.

"The Universiade is a prestigious tournament which has seen many of the world's best female footballers compete at and I'm looking forward to seeing how our young players will fair against the world at this level.

"There is plenty of representation in the Colleges and Universities sides at Women's National League level and it will give me the chance to work closely with the players as I continue to look to expand the pool of players available for the Women's National Team."

The news follows the appointment of current Men's Colleges and Universities Head Coach Greg Yelverton to the Head Coach role of the Men’s Team in February. 

It was confirmed this week that Yelverton’s backroom team of Luke Hardy (IT Carlow), David Bourke (Maynooth University) and Paul Walsh (Griffith College) with the national team will be part of the setup for the Games in Taipei.

This win now gives England the opportunity to claim a share of the honours with Northern Ireland should they go on and defeat Wales in their final fixture at Bristol Rovers FC next week.

The North finished their programme with a 3-0 win over Wales in Cardiff earlier this week and sit at the top of the table on nine points. While England are now trailing them by three points so a win in Bristol would pull them level and give them a share of the Centenary Shield.

The Republic opened their campaign with impressive wins over Wales and Northern Ireland but injuries to key players and a costly 1-0 defeat in Scotland gave them a six point finish and out of contention for honours.

A game of two halves saw the home side go in at the break holding a 2-1 lead. But a much brighter England quickly took control on the resumption and had established a comfortable 4-2 lead by the 67th minute.

A fifth goal in the closing minutes finally sealed the England win and ended the Republic’s campaign on a very disappointing note.

The Irish had threatened to go in front from a couple of early corners and it was no surprise when Evan Murphy (St. Enda’s College, Salthill) put them ahead with a first time finish from a well delivered Ronan Manning (Calasanctius College, Oranmore) corner on the left after 13 minutes.

England then began to come more into the game with the very skilful Frank Arhin becoming very influential in midfield.

Arhin’s pass set up the equaliser for Daniel Barlow who cut through the Irish defence and beat goalkeeper Paul Martin with a rising shot on 32 minutes.

But straight from the restart Ireland had re-established their lead with a fine individual effort from John Martin (Presentation De La Salle, Bagenalstown).

St. Aidan’s CBS scholar Steven Nolan went close to stretching the advantage just before the break only to see his shot go narrowly wide.

A much sharper England wasted little time in getting back on terms after the break. Three minutes in and Barlow had levelled with his second goal of the game when he beat St. Oliver’s CC student James Carroll on the left to cut in and hit a low drive that took a deflection off centre back John Mahon (Coola PPS) on its way past a helpless Martin.

It was all England now and the introduction of substitute Max Watters on 53 minutes gave more impetus to their attack and helped turn the tide in favour of the visitors.

Watters quickly made his presence felt by first setting up Kingsford Adjei to sweep home his low right wing cross and put England ahead for the first time in the game on 64 minutes and then going on to grab two goals himself.

His first came two minutes later with a neat finish from Barlow’s left wing cross. This was followed five minutes from the finish when Watters beat Martin with another fine finish for England’s comfortable 5-2 win.

Little was seen from a disappointing Irish side after the break with only Dunshaughlin CC pupil Neill Byrne coming close to testing ‘keeper Aidan Stone but he was bundled off the ball by Connor Shortt after his fine run took him into the England box.

Unfortunately a season that began so brightly for Paddy O’Reilly’s side with two decent wins and promised so much finished on a low note.

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND: Paul Martin (Presentation De La Salle, Bagenalstown); James Carroll (St. Oliver’s Community College, Drogheda), Evan Murphy (St Enda’s College, Salthill), John Mahon (Coola Post Primary School. Sligo), Darryl Walsh (Captain) (St. Declan’s Community College), Alec Byrne (Carrigaline Community School), John Martin (Presentation De La Salle, Bagenalstown), Steven Nolan (St Aidan’s CBS, Whitehall), Neill Byrne (Dunshaughlin Community College), Ronan Manning (Calasanctius College, Oranmore), Conor Layng (Athlone Community College)

SUBS: Seán McDonald (Clonkeen College Blackrock) for Layng (60), Connor Gormley (Loreto Community School, Milford) for Murphy (68), Seán McBride ((St Columba’s College, Stranorlar) for Carroll (75), Jack Ryan (Templeogue College) for Byrne (85), Tunmise Sobowale (Mount Sion CBS, Waterford), Jamie Bell (St Columba’s College, Stranorlar), Vinny Quinlan (Gorey Community School).

ENGLAND: Aidan Stone (Wolgarston High School), Jean Luc Ramdin (Rohen College), Jordan Staten (Hartpury College), Dan Bayliss (The Henley College), James O’Halloran (Wrothem School), Jordan Ngalo (Portsmouth College), Kingsford Adjei (Hartpury College), Frank Arhin (Hartpury College), Shabhan Mohammad (Hartlepool College of Further Education), Daniel Barlow (Monkseaton High School), Jack Butler (King Edward VI High School).

SUBS: Max Watters (Shenfield High School) for Butler (53), Connor Shortt (Hartlepool College of Further Education) for Ngalo 68), Alex Hynes (Barton Pevrill Sixth Form College) for Adjei (89), Henry Watson (Cardinal Newman Sixth Form College), Max Harris (Hartpury College).

REFEREE: Oliver Moran (Dublin)