The Irish Cerebral Palsy squad got their IFCPF World Championships campaign started today in Argentina against a physical Canadian side. With their first fixture postponed due to weather on Sunday the Irish were eager to get their first win on the board. However against a very physical Canadian side the Irish could only manage a 3-3 draw. 

The game began at a frantic pace with the Irish dominating possession and reaping the rewards of this with the opener just after the 1st minute of the game with Dillon Sheridan nicking the ball off the Canadian defender and slotting home from 10 yards.

The Irish continued to dominate and looked very comfortable for the first 10 minutes with a number of chances. Canada struck in the 11th minute with a free kick that was neatly finished by Samuel Charron. The Irish continued to press the Canadian’s for the rest of the half but struggled to find the target and in the 28th minute Canada took the lead through Charron again leaving Ireland trailing 2-1 at half time.

Paul Breen introduced Oisin Merritt and Peter Cotter at halftime with both making an immediate impact as Ireland continued to dominate possession but without reward.

With just over 10 minutes to go great work from Peter Cotter on the right wing beating his man and sending a shot goal bound only to be denied by the arm of a Canadian defender. The penalty was calmly dispatched by Dillon Sheridan to draw Ireland level. In the 58th minute Aaron Tier brought the ball from defence and was allowed the space to unleash a super strike that found the back of the Canadian net.

A frantic last 5 minutes saw both teams have a chance or two but cruelly the Canadians were awarded a penalty in the 1st minute of injury time which they duly scored to bring the game back to 3-3. Ireland will feel disappointed with the result as they dominated possession and the shooting stats but it was not to be their day.

Irish Head Coach Paul Breen commented after the game, “Although we are disappointed to concede a goal in added time and draw the game, we showed real good character to come from 2-1 down with 12 minutes left and to go 3-2 in front in the last couple of minutes.

"We dominated large parts of the second half which was very good and I believe we can take a lot of confidence from how we played when in possession. We need to eliminate the few errors that led to the Canadian goals. We have to take the positives from the game and prepare now for Brazil on Thursday in what will be our biggest challenge in the group.” 

Ireland: Jimmy Naughton, Aaron Tier, Carl McKee, Gary Messitt © , Mark Barry, Conor Tuite, Dillon Sheridan.

Substitutions: Conor Tuite (Oisin Merritt, 30'), Peter Cotter (Mark Barry, 30').

The 2017/18 season for Third Level football was launched at the FAI National Training Centre on Wednesday, September 13 with new sponsors RUSTLERS turning things up.

With over 110 teams set to compete in the upcoming season, it promises to be another exciting campaign as both the men's and women's teams will play their games under the CUFL banner.

The various colleges & university teams have a number of SSE Airtricity League and Continental Tyres Women's National League players in their squads, while many of the current players recently represented Ireland at the World University Games in Taipei.

Mark Scanlon, FAI National Coordinator for Schools and Third Level Football, said: "Third Level Football is playing an increasingly important role in the pathway for our young players and we are delighted to see such a great turnout at today's launch as excitement builds ahead of the new season.

"We are delighted to welcome RUSTLERS on board this season as our title sponsors and we look forward to forging a long term relationship with them to develop our Third Level Football competitions."

Adrian Lawlor, Marketing and Business Development Director, Kepak, said: "At RUSTLERS, we are committed to supporting the concept of young people combining sport and education which was a major motivating factor in partnering with the FAI back in May of this year.

"Over the next four years, we look forward to supporting the efforts of the Colleges and Universities governing bodies to grow both participation in the sport and to add some fun engagement for football supporters around the competitions."

A host of Ireland’s sports stars from 15 different sports came together the Sport Ireland National Sports Campus today for the launch of Ireland’s first Family SportFest, being held there on Sunday 1st October.

The Family SportFest takes place during #BeActive European Week of Sport and will see the Sport Ireland National Sports Campus provide opportunities for people of all ages to come and see the world class facilities available on site as well as sample some of the 30 different sports and programmes that are accommodated at Ireland’s national sports facility .

Irish Boxing High Performance Director and former World Champion, Bernard Dunne, All-Ireland winner with Dublin, Alan Brogan, dual Dublin star Conal Keaney, Irish, Connacht and Leinster player, Mike McCarthy and athletics great, Catherina McKieran were just some of the 20 athletes who supported the launch of the family SportFest which the Campus hope will attract more than 2,500 people of all ages and abilities.

The Sport Ireland National Sport Campus want SportFest to become an annual event celebrating the variety of sports available in Ireland and promoting the many benefits of sports participation. It is hoped that SportFest will not just encourage increased participation in sport but also showcase the world class facilities that are the training base for some of Ireland’s leading sport stars, play host to the national championships of more than 20 sports and are also available for use by the public on a daily basis.

Along with getting the chance to trial the sports, children and adults will get the chance to meet a range of Irish sports heroes from the many different sports to which the Sport Ireland National Sports Campus is home. There will also be question and answer sessions with top athletes and coaches, a trophy zone with some of Ireland’s most famous silverware and a skill zone where parents and children alike can test their skills in a fun and non-competitive environment.

John Treacy, Chief Executive, Sport Ireland, said; - “The Family SportFest will give children and adults of all ages and abilities a chance to sample sports they may never have dreamt of trying, or never had the chance to. They will get a chance to meet some of Ireland’s top sports stars and lift some famous trophies. Hopefully Family SportFest will not only help to inspire the next generation of Irish stars but to also foster a lifelong love of sport and show them they are always welcome here at the Sport Ireland National Sports Campus, the Home of Irish Sport. That this celebration of sport can be held for the first time during the European Work of Sport, for which Sport Ireland is the national co-ordinator, is even better.”

Michael Murray, Chief Operations Officer, Sport Ireland National Sports Campus, said;  “The Family SportFest is an opportunity to highlight the fact that the facilities and sports here are for everyone. We set out to build a National Sports Campus of which the country could be proud and SportFest provides an opportunity to tell people from all over Ireland that they are welcome to come and enjoy these world class facilities at the Sport Ireland National Sports Campus.  It’s important to us that the general public understand that this is their Campus too.  We have some of Ireland’s best known athletes training here every day and yet the Sport Ireland National Sports Campus is open to everyone to come in and enjoy. Since the National Indoor Arena opened in January we have hosted a wide variety of sporting programmes and events. We are particularly proud that over the summer we had kids from across the country using our facilities on offer to partake in many of the sports on offer here at the Home of Irish Sport.”.

Alan Brogan– “Sport has played a huge role in my life. I have been lucky to play in one of the world’s best stadia in Croke Park but the facilities here are also truly incredible. For so long in Ireland training facilities were back pitches with some form of cabin at the side for changing if you were lucky but what is available here at the Campus is world class. It would inspire you to get involved in sport and I would encourage as many people as possible to come and see the facilities here for themselves.”

Catherina McKiernan– “The facilities here at the Sport Ireland National Sports Campus are amazing. It is great to see that Ireland now has athletics facilities that are truly world class. I have got so much enjoyment from sport, for me it is running but I do believe there is a sport for everyone. SportFest is a great opportunity to sample a wide range of the sports that are available at the Campus and experience at first hand the incredible facilities available here.”

The campus boasts an impressive array of world class facilities including the Sport Ireland National Indoor Arena, the National Aquatic Centre, the National Modern Pentathlon Centre, the National Horse Sports Arena, the National Dry Land Diving centre and the Multi Sport Synthetic pitches, Turf Pitches, Campus Conference centre and the Sport Ireland National Cross Country Track.  All of which are open for public use throughout the year.  

The campus is also home to Sport Ireland Institute of Sport, FAI Headquarters, GAA Development Centre, and Irish Sports HQ, the home of 23 sport NGBs.

Many of Ireland’s top sports stars and teams regularly use the facilities at the Sport Ireland National Sports Campus.  The Republic of Ireland Senior Men’s and Women’s football teams are based on the campus as is the Irish Boxing High Performance Programme, Swim Ireland’s National Training Centre as well as Sport Ireland Institute of Sport which provides sport science and other support services to Ireland’s High Performance Athletes.

The Sport Ireland National Sports Campus provides sporting opportunities for the whole family and for all ages and abilities in the community, with programmes and classes provided for toddlers right up to over 55s.  The Campus runs market leading Academies for Swimming, Gymnastics, Athletics, Diving and Multi Sport along with hugely popular summer camps, fitness classes and birthday parties for kids. 

The inaugural Family SportFest takes place at the Sport Ireland National Sports Campus on Sunday 1st October from 11am to 4pm.  The event is open to the public of all ages and abilities.  Tickets are priced at €10 for a family ticket (Two adults & up to three children), €5 per adult and €3 per child.  For more information on the Family Sport Fest log on to www.nationalsportscampus.ie/familysportfest  

Application inspections are ongoing with the FAI Ticketing Department undergoing an extensive process of cross-checking attendance records of each person who has applied for tickets so that regular attendees at away fixtures are catered for along with the Football Family, Supporters Clubs and Fans' Direct.

Over 9,000 applications have been received for a total of 3,500 tickets for the final match in Group D, which will be played at the Cardiff City Stadium in Cardiff - which has a total capacity of 33,280.

Applicants can expect to be notified of their status before close of business on Tuesday, September 19.

The FAI Board has agreed to financial and facility development assistance for the Shamrock Rovers Academy, which will receive a sum of €180,000 to support with the following:

- Completion of Phase One (natural grass pitches, FIFA Pro all-weather pitch) 
- Completion of development plans for Phase Two (which includes a footballing building, 7-a-side pitch, outdoor gym, modular dressing rooms)

FAI CEO John Delaney praised Shamrock Rovers' development plans by saying: "The FAI Board was hugely impressed by the level of ambition and strategic vision demonstrated by Shamrock Rovers when it presented its plans to the board.

"In approving significant support for Shamrock Rovers and the club's development of its academy, the FAI is demonstrating an ongoing commitment to the continued development of this excellent facility, in line with the club's strategic plan."

Shamrock Rovers chairman Jonathan Roche welcomed the FAI's support by stating: "We would like to thank the FAI for their assistance in our development of the Shamrock Rovers Academy and training centre, which is already into the second phase and proving to be hugely beneficial to our teams at all levels.

"Phase One has been a huge success for all involved and with the backing of the FAI and our partners at Roadstone Group Sports Club we can now complete the the second and final phase that will enable us to deliver on our strategic objective of providing the best possible pathway for player development in this country.

"The backing of the FAI in putting our five-year strategic plan into practice is essential to the future of the club and we welcome their support and assistance. This is an exciting period for the club and we look forward to our Academy helping to strengthen Shamrock Rovers FC as a whole."

The Irish Cerebral Palsy squad took on Brazil who are ranked 2nd in the world rankings in their IFCPF World Championships second match of the group stages in Argentina. Ireland unfortunately conceded within 3 minutes of the kick off putting them on the back foot immediately with Brazil quickly adding two more before the 15th minute. 

Ireland gathered themselves and should great discipline in their defending for the rest of the half but without really threatening the Brazilian goal. With tiring legs in the final minutes of the first half a lapse in concentration saw Brazil go into half-time break four goals to the good.

Manager Paul Breen made some positional changes for the second half in an attempt to sure up the Irish defence and introduced Mark Barry for Carl McKee.

In the first 5 minutes of the second half Peter Cotter and Tom Badun were introduced to give fresh legs to the Irish flanks after huge efforts by Conor Tuite and Ryan Nolan.

The Irish demonstrated real courage and belief in their ability and only kept the Brazilians at bay creating one or two opportunities of their own. The best of these was a well worked free kick just outside the box resulting in man of the match and captain Gary Messi Messett forcing the Brazilian goalkeeper into an excellent save in his bottom right corner. 

A small error in communication saw Brazil add a 5th to a flattering score line for the South American champions.

The Irish can hold their heads high after a very disciplined display against the second best team in the world with the result leaving Ireland's quarter final hopes still in their own hands when they play the third and final group match on Saturday against Spain. The game will be streamed live at 2pm Irish time on www.cp2017.com.ar

Irish assistant coach Rob Sweeney commented after the game, “It’s not often when you concede five goals that you can come away from a game with your head held as high as our players did today. Tactically and mentally we had to regroup at half time in order to put a stop to Brazil's continuous attacks. Our players showed an excellent ability to adapt, take on information and implement a low defensive block in a difficult situation. We have been able to take from this second half performance ahead of our final group game. We have full control of our own destiny in this tournament and we will devise another game plan in order to give us the best chance of performing against Spain.”

Ireland: Jimmy Naughton, Carl McKee, Gary Messett © , Conor Tuite, Ryan Nolan, Oisin Merritt, Sam Carroll  

Substitutes: Peter Cotter (40min Conor Tuite) Mark Barry (30min Carl McKee), Thomas Maher (30 min Sam Carroll), Tom Badun (40min Ryan Nolan), Dylan O’ Brien, Dillon Sheridan

The Irish CP squad held their destiny in their hands in the Stadium Estancia Grande, San Luis, Argentina today where Spain stood in their way. Going into the tournament needing to close a minus 8 goal difference to Canada to secure the quarter final spot against Russia on Monday the players knew lots of goals were on the menu. A determined squad of 7 players took to the field in San Luis looking to achieve their first aim of the tournament - a top eight finish.

It was a tentative start by the Irish as they took time to build into the game with consistent pressure on the Spanish defence going near on two occasions in the first two minutes both strikes from Dillon Sheridan.

The opening score was threatening and on the 11th minute Aaron Tier was taken down in the box by the Spanish goalkeeper to set up the penalty for the opening goal that was stylishly dispatched by Gary Messett.

From the tip off Ireland pressed hard and Gary Messett successfully dispossessed the Spanish on the half way line and sent Dillon Sheridan through who still had some work to do but slotted home with an excellent finish off the post in the bottom left hand corner. Ireland continued to dominate but were unable to capitalise on this possession with any more goals and the teams went in at half time with Ireland 2-0 to the good.

Ireland Manager gave the instruction to continue what they were doing and the goals will come and they duly did with three goals in the first 5 minutes of the second half. The first arriving in the 1stminute of the second half with Captain fantastic Gary ‘Messi’ Messett buried home in the top corner after great work by Oisin Merritt down the right and pulling back from the end line for Messett to score from 20 metres in what could be a goal of the tournament contender.

Immediately after the kick off Ireland reclaimed possession through Dillon Sheridan who went by three players to calmly send the ball low into the box where Messett slotted home from 5 metres to claim his Hat Trick. 3 minutes later Dillon Sheridan shot from 20 metres and saw his shot cannon off the upright only to rebound to Aaron Tier who coolly gave Ireland 5 goals.

With the Canadians 2-0 down to Brazil in the other group match Ireland knew they needed a seventh goal to secure their quarter final place and in the 41st minute Dillon Sheridan added a sixth goal. With time running out Ireland continued with the game plan and got their just reward in the 55th minute when none other than their Captain Messett completed the 7-0 routing needed for Ireland to claim second place in group A with his 4th goal of the game.

Scenes of celebration followed the final whistle as news of Canada’s loss to Brazil came through and the teams place in the top eight was confirmed and a quarterfinal place against Russia on Monday at 7:30pm Irish time. The game will be streamed live onwww.cp2017.com.ar

Irish Manager Paul Breen commented after the game: “A detailed analysis of our opposition was compiled in order to identify key areas of their game that we felt we would be able to exploit. The players executed the plan perfectly and were able to achieve their goal of securing a place in the quarterfinals of the IFCPF World Championships. I am really proud of the character this team has shown throughout the tournament so far and this is to the credit of the players and all the staff in helping to build the team spirit that exists in the squad”

Ireland: Jimmy Naughton, Mark Barry, Gary Messett © , Dillon Sheridan, Oisin Merritt, Aaron Tier, Peter Cotter

Substitutions: Conor Tuite (Peter Cotter 50') Ryan Nolan (Dillon Sheridan 52'), Dylan O’ Brien (Mark Barry 54') 

Substitutes not used: Sam Carroll, Thomas Maher, Carl McKee, Tom Badun.

Leinster Senior League

Round 1

Wayside Celtic FC      1-0      Newtown Rangers AFC        

Templeogue United FC         0-1 (AET)    Cherry Orchard FC 

Knocklyon United FC            1-2      St James Gate

Leixlip United AFC    2-4      Dublin University AFC         

Mt Merrion FC           0-2      TEK United   

Drumcondra Stella Maris FC            0-2      St Patrick’s CY          

St Mochta’s FC           5-2      Bangor Celtic FC       

Newbridge Town FC 1-0      Portmarnock AFC     

Malahide United       3-0      Arklow Town FC       

Tullamore Town FC  2-2      Pegasus St James Athletic FC (Pegasus win 5-3 on penalties)

Portloaise AFC           0-2      Home Farm FC          

St John Bosco FC        0-2      Skerries Town          

Broadford Rovers      0-2      Edenderry Town FC

Ballymun United FC  2-0      Verona FC     

Hartstown Huntstown FC     1-4      Maynooth University Town

Greenhills Greenpark FC      1-2      Dunboyne AFC         

Byes:              

Beggsboro AFC, Killester United, Bluebell United, Kilnamanagh United FC, CYM Beechwood, Leicester Celtic FC, CIE Ranch, Liffey Wanderers FC, Confey FC, Lucan United FC, Crumlin United FC, Mid Sutton Sportslink, Dublin Bus FC, Mullingar Athletic, Firhouse Clover FC, Peamount United FC, Glebe North FC, Sacred Heart Killinarden FC, Glenville FC, Swords Celtic, Greystones United AFC, Tolka Rovers AFC, Inchicore Athletic FC, UCD AFC        

Munster Senior League

Round 1

St Mary’s AFC            1-2      Ringmahon Rangers

Kilreen Celtic 3-6      Park United  

Rockmount     6-0      Glasheen FC  

Castleview      4-0      Casement Celtic        

College Corinthians AFC       0-1      Cobh Wanderers AFC          

Wilton United FC       2-3      Everton AFC  

Ballinhassig AFC        1-2      Blarney United         

Avondale United       3-0      Kinsale AFC   

Midleton FC   4-0      Mayfield United AFC

Byes:              

Ballincollig AFC, Leeside AFC, Bandon AFC, Mallow United, Carrigaline United, Riverstown FC, Douglas Hall AFC, Tramore Athletic FC, Fermoy AFC, UCC AFC, Leeds AFC                 

Ulster Senior League

Round 1

Fanad United 1-3      Bonagee United FC  

Byes:              

Swilly Rovers FC, Letterkenny Rovers FC, Cockhill Celtic FC       

The draw for the second round will be made the week commencing October 2nd, 2017.

An exciting game at Tallaght Stadium ended with Dundalk lifting the season's first piece of silverware thanks to a 3-0 win over Shamrock Rovers.

Dundalk enjoyed an explosive start to the game and deservedly took the lead after just five minutes through David McMillan. The striker was left free in the middle of the box as he got on the end of a corner to head towards goal. Madden, standing at he near post, tried to keep it out but his header came off the underside of the bar and landed behind him.

Chances were much harder to come by in the second half as Rovers struggled to create any clear-cut openings, while Dundalk were happy to sit back and hit their opponents on the break.

Rovers' task was made that bit tougher when Aaron Bolger was shown a straight red card for a rash tackle on Niclas Vemmelund.

The introduction of Gary Shaw gave Rovers more of a focal point up front but Dundalk took advantage of their extra man to suffocate the midfield and they eventually doubled their lead on 81 minutes through a magnificent strike from Patrick McEleney. 

To their credit, Rovers never gave up but their misery was compounded in injury time when substitute Thomas Stewart latched onto a excellent through ball by Sean Gannon, produced an excellent first touch and finished past Tomer Chencinski after only being on the pitch a matter of seconds.

Collins was appointed to the Independent Assessment Group which facilitated the merger of the League of Ireland and the FAI in 2006. He was appointed to the FAI National League Executive Committee in 2007 and was a serving member of the committee.

Cork-born Collins, 75, worked in the building industry. He had a lengthy involvement in Charlton Athletic becoming a director of the London club in 1981 and briefly served as Chairman in 1983 then had a second spell in that role between 1987 and 1989. 

He was a Director at the Valley up until 2009 and continued to attend the club's games up until the time of his death.

"I met Richard many years ago and it was clear from that the start that he was very proud of being from Cork and that he had a lot to offer Irish football," said FAI CEO John Delaney. 

"Richard was a very valued member of the National League Executive Committee and he brought a lot of knowledge into the role from his involvement with Charlton Athletic. 

"He will be sadly missed and we will pay tribute to him at the Moldova game next month. Our condolences to his family and friends at this sad time."

The Republic of Ireland Women’s Under 19 team completed their 3 Nations Tournament campaign with a 1-0 win against Hungary in Lindabrunn, Austria, this afternoon.

Saoirse Noonan’s 87th minute winner from a well worked set piece gave Ireland the win against a tough Hungarian outfit. The goal came as a clever free kick from Alex Kavanagh was dinked over the wall to send Noonan through on goal. The Cork City WFC striker made no mistake and buried the ball past Hungary goalkeeper Luca Varga.

Speaking to FAI.ie after the game, Ireland Head Coach Dave Connell was pleased with how his side performed. “It was a decent first half where we controlled possession for long periods, but perhaps we didn’t create as many chanced as we would have liked. We made five changes at the break at were under the cosh for ten or fifteen minutes but the girls showed great character to grind out the win and the clean sheet.

Today’s result comes on the back of Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Austria where Lauren Kelly’s goal gave Ireland a share of the spoils.

The matches were played as preparation for next month’s Women’s Under-19 Championship Qualifying Round games in the Netherlands.  Connell’s side will face their Dutch hosts along with ties against Estonia and Latvia with two qualifying berths for the Elite Round the prize at stake.

“Overall, we are very happy with how the two games have gone,” Connell added. “It has been a good experiement coming over here. The players have applied themselves very well and we have a good foundation now to build upon going into the Elite Round next month.”

Hungary: Luca (GK), A. Fel, Kovacs, Molnar, Vasas, Andre, P. Fel, Olah, Csigi, Varadi, Pulins.

Subs: Barti (GK), Anda, Kralik, Papp, Dorner, Horvath, Bocskei, Eszter, Bianka.

Ireland: Turner (GK), Craven, Farrelly, Doyle, Kavanagh, Singleton, Noonan, Kelly, Keenan, Reddy, Burke.

Subs: Lenihan (GK), Baynes, O’Callaghan, McEntee, Green, Warner, Mooney, Casey, McNamee.

The WNT skipper is set to lead out the team for the first-time in the qualifier against Northern Ireland at Mourneview Park, Lurgan, with kick-off at 7.45pm.

With Ireland also set to face Norway, Netherlands and Slovakia in Group D, the opener against Northern Ireland will be a crucial game in Ireland's quest to qualify for a major tournament for the first time.

Having travelled up to Northern Ireland on Sunday, the WNT squad trained at Mourneview Park earlier today and McCabe is relishing the prospect of the opening qualification game.

McCabe said: "It's a huge occasion and there is a real buzz in the squad ahead of the game. We've had an excellent camp and trained really well. Everyone is fresh and raring to go.

"It's always exciting at the start of a new campaign and you can tell everyone is really up for it, and obviously, it's a great way to start a new campaign. 

"The new players have come into the squad and slotted in really well. The standard has been really high out there so we really just want to get going now."

McCabe was handed the captain's armband by Women's National Team Head Coach Colin Bell after former captain Emma Byrne retired in the summer. 

Opponents Northern Ireland lost their opening game of the campaign, a 4-1 defeat in Norway but McCabe believes they will provide tough opposition and that Ireland need to play above the occasion.

McCabe continued: "There has been a lot of hype about the game ever since we were drawn against each other but we need to put all that to the back of our minds. 

"It's going to be a tough game but it's important we focus on ourselves and what we can do as we've shown we can play some excellent football this year. 

"It's going to be a really proud moment to lead the team out and all my family will be here to watch, you'll probably hear them screaming! But it is special, and it's something you always dream about.

"The result is all that matters though, it's going to be a big three points to get away from home and we need to focus on getting that first win of the campaign over the line."

Team News: Claire O'Riordan has been called up to the squad from Wexford Youths with Heather Payne doubtful with a calf strain. 

Republic of Ireland WNT squad v Northern Ireland

Goalkeepers: Marie Hourihan (Manchester City), Amanda Budden (Cork City WFC), Amanda McQuillan (Shelbourne Ladies).

Defenders: Harriet Scott (Reading WFC), Megan Campbell (Manchester City), Sophie Perry (Brighton and Hove Albion), Diane Caldwell (SC Sand), Louise Quinn (Arsenal), Claire Walsh (UCD Waves).

Midfielders: Niamh Fahey (Bordeaux), Karen Duggan (UCD Waves), Denise O'Sullivan (North Carolina Courage), Stephanie Roche (Sunderland), Roma McLaughlin (Shelbourne Ladies), Tyler Toland (Maiden City).

Forwards: Katie McCabe (Glasgow City), Leanne Kiernan (Shelbourne Ladies), Heather Payne (Peamount United), Amber Barrett (Peamount United), Aine O'Gorman (UCD Waves), Claire O'Riordan (Wexford Youths).

Northern Ireland v Republic of Ireland
FIFA 2019 World Cup qualifier
Mourneview Park, Lurgan
Kick-off: 7.30pm

In very hot conditions in Argentina, a very strong Russian team ran out 5-0 winners over Paul Breen's Irish side. Ireland began the game very well demonstrating great discipline and composure in their defending and created one or two chances in the first 15 minutes.

A lack of concentration let Russia in for their first goal on 16 minutes with the Irish legitimately feeling a little hard done by. Just four minutes later the Russians got in behind the Irish defence with a fantastic counter attack to clinically score their second of the day.

The Irish fought hard and captain Gary Messett was unlucky not to pull one back after a very well worked training ground free kick just missed Russia’s far post. 

Two changes at half time with Dillon Sheridan and Carl McKee coming on to give Ireland a little more of an attacking edge for the second half. Ireland came out on the front foot with Dillon Sheridan getting involved immediately threatening and he was unlucky not to get Ireland a penalty within three minutes of the restart.

With Ireland pushing for a goal, a quick counter attack from Russia resulted in their third goal and Ireland's dreams of a World Championships Semi Final berth destroyed.

With the sweltering heat taking its toll on the Irish players Russia took advantage with two quick goals in the 44th and 50th minute. Breen added some fresh legs in the latter stages putting Conor Tuite, Thomas Maher and Dylan O Brien into the fray. 

A gallant effort against the tournament favourites but it was not to be this time. Ireland will play Netherlands on Wednesday at 6:30pm Irish time in the 5th – 9th semi-final hoping to secure a place in Friday's 5th/6thplay-off.

Paul Breen commented after the match, “I was happy with the performance in the first half in difficult conditions against a very strong team. We were very much still in the game at half time. In the end the heat and a small but of fatigue set in as the players were playing their 4th game in 8 days. That played it's part in the latter stages of the match. The focus will now turn to the Netherlands on Wednesday and we will work on plans to secure our place in the 5th/6th playoff match on Friday. A top six finish will be mean it was a good tournament for us and keep our ranking position very healthy.”

Ireland’s Cerebral Palsy World Cup Results

Group Stage

Ireland 3-3 Canada

Brazil 5-0 Ireland

Spain 0-7 Ireland

Quarter-Final

Ireland 0-5 Russia

5th-9th Place Place Semi Final

Ireland v Netherlands  (Wednesday, September 20, 18:30 Irish Time) 

The meeting of the two Dublin clubs will take place in Greenogue, thus meaning that Peamount have home advantage for a game that will kick off at 6pm.

Shelbourne are the current holders of the League Cup following their 3-2 win over UCD Waves in May 2016, but Peamount have twice won the competition themselves so both teams know what it takes to be victorious.

Extra-time and a penalty shoot-out shall follow should the game be level after 90 minutes.

Forty girls from the Aviva ‘Soccer Sisters’ initiative were given the opportunity of a lifetime today, as they took part in a special training session alongside several members of the Republic of Ireland Women’s Senior Team.

The session was rolled out as part of the 2017 Aviva Soccer Sisters Golden Camp which took place at the FAI National Training Centre today and saw the girls – aged between seven and 12 – sat in on a full Irish team training session, before getting to take the field with the team ahead of next Tuesday’s FIFA World Cup Qualifier against Northern Ireland.

The Aviva Soccer Sisters programme has been running since 2006 and is aimed at engaging young girls in physical exercise and attracting them to the game of football. Over 30,000 girls have taken part in the programme since it first kicked off, including Roma McLaughlin who is part of Colin Bell’s line-up for next week’s qualifier.

Sue Ronan, Head of Women’s Football with the FAI, said: “The Aviva Soccer Sisters programme has been vital for the development of girls’ football in Ireland. It is an ideal opportunity for young girls to experience football in a fun, safe environment with their peer group and friends. For many young girls it’s their first step on the football ladder and has proved to be a big hit over the past decade with over 30,000 participants to date. Many of these girls have stayed in the game, some going on to great heights like playing for their country at underage level, while others continue to enjoy the game at club-level, making life-long friends along the way.

“We’re delighted to have Aviva as a sponsor, their commitment to promoting the female game has helped us grow participation. Their support in providing an opportunity such as the Aviva Soccer Sisters Golden Camp to 40 lucky young girls is invaluable. These girls will get the chance to train and meet with some of our Women’s national team players, a once in a lifetime experience for these young girls."

Mark Russell, Group Sponsorship Manager, Aviva Insurance, also commented: “Aviva is honoured to be involved with the Soccer Sisters programme for 2017 and beyond. We want to work with the FAI to help increase awareness of the programme. If we can increase the numbers of girls involved in sport at a young age, we have a great chance of reversing the drop off in their involvement as young women. Such an achievement would be a wonderful legacy for a company like Aviva - not just to soccer but also to the health of the nation.

“Along with the Aviva Soccer Sisters camps in clubs and schools there will also be the Easter Camps for girls between 7 – 12 and the Nursery Academy which gives girls from 5 – 8 years old the chance to try football in a fun environment. Soccer Sisters is a significant addition to our grassroots sports programmes and Aviva is delighted to have this opportunity to encourage young girls to get involved and stay involved in sport and, - let’s hope - create some soccer heroes for the future.”

Paul Osam's side will have learned a lot from this game against an impressive Romanian outfit. The sides were level at the break but the hosts proved too strong in the second half.

In the 17th minute Romania had a decent chance when Louis Munteanu bursts into the box and his low strike from ten yards out is turned around the post by Irish keeper Jimmy Corcoran.

Nine minutes later Irish captain Seamus Keogh fired at goal from distance but it lacked the power to beat keeper Razvan Sava.

Romania took the lead in the 29th minute when a right wing cross by Ahmed Bani found captain Radu Drăgușin and he headed home from close range.

Ireland levelled just two minutes later when a low strike across goal by Patrick Moore was spilled by the keeper and Matt Everitt pounced to turn home the loose ball.

The impressive Romanian midfielder Ahmed Bani put the hosts ahead in the 47th minute when he worked his way through the Irish defence before slotting the ball under the advancing Irish keeper Corcoran.

Romania extended their lead in the 51st minute when Corcoran was desperately unlucky to see the loose ball headed in by Munteanu after the keeper had dived full stretch to touch a powerful strike by AlexiPitu onto his crossbar.

Corcoran made another good save to deny Munteanu in the 66th minute when the striker got in a low strike from the edge of the box through a crowd of Irish defenders.

The Irish thought they had reduced the deficit in the 70th minute but Everitt's fine finish was ruled out for an infringement.

The teams will meet in a second friendly on Thursday. Osam will look for an improved display in that game but was pleased with his side's first half performance today.

"It was the first game an international level for a number of players so it was an opportunity to have a look at the new faces," said Osam.

"I felt that we did okay in the first half and some of what we worked at training came to fruition but in the second half we made a couple of errors which gave them a lift and they took control for a period of time.

"The third goal put them in pole position but then we had a perfectly legitimate goal ruled out that could have got us back into it. I've looked at it a few times and can't see where the infringement was.

"Overall we will assess this game. We've a lot of things we can look to address before the second game. It shows these players what this level is all about. They can be performing well for their clubs but when you get to international level they find that every mistake gets punished and it's all a  learning curve for them."

Romania: Sava (Popa 53), Androne (Mocioacă 24), Dicu, Drăgușin, Florică (Stefanovici 77), Crivac, Grameni (Pănoiu 77), Sima (Corbeanu 53), Bani (Florescu 77), Pitu (Borcea 67), Munteanu (Țenea 67).

Republic of Ireland: Corcoran, Dunne, Kelly, Sobowale (Power 60), Agberhiere, Ebosele (Furlong 60), McKinlay (Leavy 75), Hodge, Keogh (Holt 60), Moore, Everitt (Carty 75).

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Colin Bell's side controlled the game throughout and went ahead on the stroke of half-time as Rachel Furness headed into her own net. Megan Campbell doubled the lead half-way through the second-half with a brilliant strike as Ireland claimed an important three points. 

Bell went for an experienced side with the likes of Niamh Fahey and Karen Duggan making up a strong midfield as Katie McCabe led the team out for the first time.

Ireland took time to settle but almost went ahead just after the half-hour as Campbell's bullet-throw found Stephanie Roche and her header came off the bar in the 33rd minute.

Six minutes later, Ireland were denied again but by the keeper this time as Campbell's throw found Louise Quinn and her header was brilliantly saved off the line, and Diane Caldwell failed to convert.

Just as it looked Ireland would go into the break level, they found the break-through. Once again, Campbell's throw towards the near post caused all the problems as Rachel Furness glanced her throw past the keeper and into her own net in the last seconds of the first-half.

Quinn almost got herself on the scoresheet as her fierce effort from a corner was well-blocked by Jessica Foy, but they didn't have to wait long to double their lead.

In the 68th minute, Manchester City star Campbell saw her throw-in cleared back to herself on the right and from 25-yards, she curled the ball home brilliantly with just over 20 minutes remaining.

Ireland continued to create chances but failed to add to their tally as they get their campaign off to a winning start against Northern Ireland. Unfortunately, striker Stephanie Roche was stretchered off in the final stages of the game and was brought to hospital for a scan after the final whistle.

WNT Head Coach Colin Bell said:"It was a great performance from the team and I'm delighted to be going home with the points.

"We could have scored a few more goals than we did but we've learnt a lot from tonight's game and I'm sure we'll continue to improve as the campaign continues.

"It is a real positive to be able to bring Tyler Toland and Amber Barrett on to make their debuts. It is a big moment for them and I'm sure they both have a huge future with the team ahead of them.

"We wait for news on Stephanie. We hope she hasn't suffered a bad injury as she is a crucial member of the team."

Republic of Ireland team v Northern Ireland: Hourihan (GK), Scott, Quinn, Caldwell, Campbell (Toland 80), Duggan, Fahey, McCabe (C), O'Sullivan, O'Gorman (Kiernan 20), Roche (Barrett 86).

Subs not used: McQuillan (GK), Walsh, Perry, O'Riordan. 

Reigning champions Shelbourne Ladies have been drawn away to UCD Waves with Wexford Youths WFC welcoming Cork City WFC to the South-East in the other last four tie. 

The games will be played the weekending Sunday October 8.

Continental Tyres Women's FAI Cup Semi Final Draw 

Wexford Youths WFC v Cork City WFC

UCD Waves v Shelbourne Ladies 

Magee, aged 82, was the voice of many sports in Ireland but was particularly strongly linked to football and commentated on 11 FIFA World Cup finals tournaments and 10 Olympic Games.

A native of County Louth, New York-born Magee made his mark in radio, and later on in television, upon joining RTE in 1956.

Magee was a constant presence at the Republic of Ireland national team games for decades and recently attended the FIFA World Cup qualifier versus Serbia. He was a regular supporter of the League of Ireland. His late son Paul played for Shamrock Rovers and tragically passed away in 2008.

Jimmy is survived by children Mark, Patricia, June and Linda, and a large extended family. His wife Marie sadly passed away in 1989.

FAI CEO John Delaney paid tribute to Jimmy Magee, who he described as 'the voice of football’.

"Jimmy Magee is synonymous with Irish sports commentary, and his voice was the soundtrack to some of the greatest sporting moments in history," said Delaney.

"Whether it was iconic moments like John Treacy’s Olympic marathon silver medal in 1984 or Barry McGuigan’s historic win over Eusebio Pedroza, Jimmy had a range that covered many sports.

"But for me, Jimmy Magee was the voice of football for generations, with his iconic commentaries marking such great occasions, like Liam Brady’s goal against France in 1977 at Lansdowne Road and Diego Maradona's goals against England in Mexico in 1986.

“Jimmy was a great League of Ireland man, and I will always remember him at Aviva Stadium every year for the Irish Daily Mail FAI Cup Final where he would regale everyone he came across with stories of great sporting occasions.

"He also compared many football events and was a fantastic host of the reunion of all the former Ireland players ahead of the first ever football international at Croke Park in 2007.

“Ireland has lost a true giant and Irish sport has lost one of its most iconic figures and I would like to pass on the sincerest condolences of the FAI to Jimmy’s family and friends on this sad occasion."

FAI President Tony Fitzgerald also paid tribute to the legendary broadcaster.

"Jimmy Magee was an integral part of our sporting lives for many decades and we all have fabulous memories of his voice lighting up major sports events, whether it was on TV or radio," said Fitzgerald.

"But I think we all associate him with the really big football occasions such as the World Cups and European Championships and there's no doubt that those tournaments will never feel the same without hearing Jimmy's brilliant commentary.

"The deepest respects of the Association go to Jimmy's family at this sad time."

The FAI will mark Jimmy Magee’s passing at SSE Airtricity League games this weekend, and he will be remembered at Ireland's FIFA World Cup qualifier against Moldova on October 6 at Aviva Stadium.

The Irish Cerebral Palsy Squad demonstrated an immense attacking style of play to defeat Netherlands 5-1 at the Cerebral Palsy World in San Luis, Argentina.

The Irish had a confident start threatening the Dutch goal on a number of occasions as players eased into the game with Dillon Sheridan causing the Dutch defence problems. In the 15th minute, Sheridan received the ball from Gary Messett, shifted it left and found the top corner from 30 yards out. 

Just two minutes later Sheridan once again found the back of the Dutch net to put Ireland firmly in command. Ireland were now in a comfortable position but continued to execute the game plan going close on a number of occasions but the score line remained 2-0 at the break.

Within two minutes of the restart, Ireland scored twice with Aaron Tier and then Dillon Sheridan giving Ireland a four goal cushion. With the win secured the Irish began to manage the game well and patiently waited for their next opportunity. 

This arrived in the 21st minute of the half with Dillon Sheridan grabbing his fourth of the game. Ireland Head Coach Paul Breen made wholesale changes with five of the starting seven coming off late on as the Netherlands scored a late consolation goal. 

The Irish now advance to the 5th/6th play off match on Friday where they face a very strong USA team. Kick off is 4:30pm Irish time and the game will be streamed live on www.cp2017.com.ar

After the game Irish Head Coach Paul Breen commented, “It’s a credit to the management team and all 14 players that we will now compete for 5th place in this World Championships. We have continually analysed and formulated plans to ensure the best possible chance of performing throughout this tournament. These players have worked extremely hard over the last seven months preparing for these championships and are now into the next stage of their development. We look forward to the challenge the USA game will bring and preparations begin now for what will be the biggest game of these players' careers to date.” 

Match highlights:

Ireland: Jimmy Naughton, Aaron Tier, Gary Messett © , Mark Barry, Dillon Sheridan, Oisin Merritt 

Substitutes: Conor Tuite, Carl McKee, Thomas Maher, Dillon Sheridan, Tom Badun, Dylan O Brien, Ryan Nolan and Sam Carroll 

Ireland’s Cerebral Palsy World Cup Results

Group Stage

Ireland 3-3 Canada

Brazil 5-0 Ireland

Spain 0-7 Ireland

Quarter-Final

Ireland 0-5 Russia

5th-9th Place Semi Final

Ireland 5-1 Netherlands 

5th/6th Place Play-Off

Ireland v USA (Friday, September 22, 16:30 Irish Time)