Colin Bell's WU17s side scored goals either side of the break to finish top of Group Four with maximum points and no goals conceded against Greece, Romania or Bosnia & Herzegovina.

Ireland dominated throughout and could have won by a greater margin as Greece failed to register a single shot on target throughout the contest. 

Doireann Fahey and Isibeal Atkinson both saw early efforts saved before Ciara Fowler put Ireland ahead in the 21st minute. Megan Mackey crossed the ball into Andrea Trill who was able to touch the ball back for Fowler who finished well to score.

Ireland continued the onslaught after the break as both Chelsea midfielder Mackey and Shelbourne Ladies winger Jessica Ziu were denied by Greek goalkeeper Panagiota Vlasiadou before substitute Louise Masterson sealed the contest with five minutes remaining. It was a moment of real quality as Atkinson did well down the left and crossed for Masterson who took the ball down with her right and finished from 12 yards with her left to seal the contest.

Ireland will now await the draw to the UEFA Elite Round as they look to emulate last season's success and qualify for the UEFA European Championships in Lithuania in May 2018.

Republic of Ireland WU17s & WNT Head Coach Colin Bell said: "We controlled everything today, dominated the play and really we should have scored a few more goals. 

"We didn't let them have one chance during the match and some of the aspects of our play were really good. We were able to move the ball really quickly and we kept possession really well so that was really good to see.

"It was a really mature performance. We didn't know what to expect from the group really but since that first game against Bosnia where we had to really work for the result, we've gone on to play some really good football. In the last two games, we've clearly been the better team.

"I'm really happy that they're starting to develop that style of play as that is what we've been working on and if we can instil that style in the players at a younger age, it's obviously going to beneficial for the senior team in the years to come." 

Teams

Republic of Ireland: Kelly (GK), O'Mahony, McGovern, Fahey, Mackey (C), Ziu (Brady 79), Fowler (Masterson 70), Atkinson, Toland, Trill (Boyle Carr 52), Foley. 

Subs not used: Maguire (GK), Lambe, Whelan, McEvoy, Slattery, O'Regan.

Greece: Vlasiadou (GK), Christodoulou, Briasouli, Kopelou (Efthymiou 76), Pachaki (Markou 80), Giamali, Strantzali (C), Kavvatha (Tsoukala 49), Skoulikariti, Gatoudi, Proxenou. 

Subs not used: Psalti (GK), Vlassopoulou, Tsouni, Voila, Sakellari, Sarri.

Gerry Davis has named a 20-man squad for next week's tounament in Glasgow. The tournament will take place in Glasgow from the 11th to the 14th of October.

Fixtures: 

Republic of Ireland v Isle of Man. Wednesday, October 11 

Scotland v Republic of Ireland. Thursday, October 12

Republic of Ireland v Northern Ireland. Saturday, October 14 

The squad in full is:

Adrian Walsh  ( St Michaels FC )

Gary Neville    ( Pike Rovers )

Chris Higgins   ( St Michaels FC )

Niall Andrews  ( Evergreen FC )

Stephen Kelly  ( Newmarket FC)

Anto Kavanagh ( Sheriff YC)

Paul Murphy     ( Sheriff YC)

Chris Smith        ( Abbeyfeale United )

Jack Doherty     (Carrick United )

David Joyce     ( Clonmel Celtic)

Stephen McGann  ( Pike Rovers )

Daniel Matthews  ( Collinstown FC )

Jordan Buckley  ( Usher Celtic)

Kieran McDaid ( Buncrana Hearts)

Jimmy Carr ( St  Michaels FC)

James McGrath ( Nenagh AFC )

Eoin Hayes    ( Newmarket FC)

Shane Clark   ( Janesboro FC)

David Hoban ( Westport United)

Stephen Donnelly ( Usher Celtic )

Republic of Ireland manager Martin O'Neill confirmed his squad ahead of the 2018 FIFA World Cup Qualifying Round clashes with Moldova and Wales.

Injury rules out goalkeeper Keiren Westwood (ribs), while striker Kevin Doyle has retired due to concussion-related symptoms. A number of players are carrying knocks and will be assessed by the FAI medical team.

The Ireland squad began preparations for the final two Group D games with a session at FAI National Training Centre on Monday. They will undergo three more sessions there ahead of the game against Moldova at Aviva Stadium on Friday, October 6.

On Sunday, October 8, the squad will depart Dublin for Cardiff to prepare for the game against Wales on Monday, October 9 at Cardiff City Stadium.

Over 49,000 tickets have been sold for the Moldova game on Friday, October 6 at Aviva Stadium and remaining tickets can be purchased via Ticketmaster.ie

Republic of Ireland MNT Squad
Goalkeepers: Darren Randolph (Middlesbrough), Rob Elliot (Newcastle United), Colin Doyle (Bradford City)
Defenders: Cyrus Christie (Middlesbrough), Richard Keogh (Derby County), Shane Duffy (Brighton & Hove Albion), Ciaran Clark (Newcastle United), John O'Shea (Sunderland), Kevin Long, Stephen Ward (Burnley)
Midfielders: Aiden McGeady (Sunderland), James McClean (West Bromwich Albion), Glenn Whelan, Conor Hourihane (Aston Villa), Jeff Hendrick, Robbie Brady (Burnley), James McCarthy (Everton), David Meyler (Hull City), Harry Arter (Bournemouth), Eunan O'Kane (Leeds United), Wes Hoolahan (Norwich City), Jonathan Hayes (Celtic), Callum O'Dowda (Bristol City), Daryl Horgan (Preston North End)
Forwards: Shane Long (Southampton), Daryl Murphy (Nottingham Forest), David McGoldrick (Ipswich Town), Sean Maguire (Preston North End), Scott Hogan (Aston Villa), Aiden O'Brien (Millwall) 

Leinster Senior League - Round 2

Tolka Rovers v Killester United        

CIE Ranch v Dunboyne     

Beggsboro v Home Farm   

Liffey Wanderers v Cherry Orchard        

Dublin University v Skerries Town          

Greystones United v Glebe North  

Lucan United v Ballymun United      

Newbridge Town v UCD   

Mullingar Athletic v Maynooth University           

Malahide United v TEK United   

Firhouse Clover v Peamount United     

St Patricks CY v St Mochtas    

Leicester Celtic v Crumlin United        

Dublin Bus v Bluebell United        

Kilnamanagh v St James Gate

Swords Celtic v CYM Beechwood      

Newtown United v Confey           

Glenville v Edenderry Town      

Mid Sutton v Pegasus St James     

Sacred Heart v Inchicore Athletic     

Munster Senior League - Round 2

Park United v Cobh Wanderers      

Avondale United v Ballincollig     

Castleview v UCC    

Rockmount v Bandon          

Blarney United v Mallow United          

Fermoy v Everton         

Tramore Athletic v Midleton        

Leeside v Douglas Hall  

Leeds v Riverstown    

Carrigaline United v Ringmahon Rangers

Ulster Senior League - Round 2   

Cockhill Celtic v Swilly Rovers

Letterkenny Rovers v Bonagee United        

Fixtures to be played weekending 22nd October 2017

Tom Mohan's Republic of Ireland Uner 19 side host the UEFA Under 19 European Championship Qualifying Round with Azerbaijan, Cyprus and Serbia visiting the South-East this week.

First up for Mohan's side is a battle with Azerbaijan on Wednesday, before they take on Cyprus on October 7 followed by Serbia on October 10 - all in Waterford RSC.

An ever-present in last season's Elite Round, Brighton and Hove Albion midfielder Jayson Molumby returns for this year's campaign with Head Coach Tom Mohan confirming the Waterford man as his new captain.

Progression is something that Jayson Molumby has become accustomed to over the past few years as he is repeatedly forced to set new targets for himself.

The Cappoquin native hasn't even had the chance to defy expectations because every time he moves close to a position where someone can take the time to assess his current level he smashes through another glass ceiling.

Ahead of the current season, talk amongst the players and coaches at Brighton & Hove Albion was that Molumby was someone to keep an eye on for the future. Few predicted that he would be making his senior debut just three games into the campaign.

Yet, for those who have been watching the talented teenager closely they will not be surprised at how quickly he has climbed the ladder from promising academy player to substitute in the English Premier League - as he was in the game against Arsenal last weekend.

For Molumby, he is simply taking it all in his stride with the knowledge that he is only starting out on his professional adventure.

"It's been unbelievable hard work...just working every day trying to improve and I'm glad to see the results at the end of it," gushes a modest Molumby.

While things have gone really well at club level - appearing in the EFL Cup victories over Barnet and Bournemouth - Molumby now has international football on his mind. It is a different challenge but one that he is excited by.

Having stepped up from the Under 17s, Molumby is hoping to play a key role in Tom Mohan's U19s side as they take on three opponents in the RSC over the course of a week in their UEFA European Championship Qualifying Round.

A place at next summer's finals in Finland is at stake and there can be no room for error in any of the games.

"It's difficult with the Under 19s as only one team goes through in the Elite Phase to the finals, so you need to really graft to get through. Physically (it's more demanding), the ball moves quicker and everything is a step up," stated Molumby.

"Azerbaijan, Cyprus, Serbia...when you look at all of them they are all have fight in them and they are all passionate about their country. They are going to come in with a point to prove and they have nothing to lose, so we have to be ready."

Home advantage is something that Mohan will be eager to make the most of in these games and that is something that means even more to local lad Molumby.

He knows that when he walks out at the RSC, his heart will thump a little faster and his focus will be a little sterner as he will want to represent everyone who knows him in the best way possible.

"I'll have an army there, I'd say," smiled Molumby in reference to his family and friends turning up.

"It's only about a 35-minute drive from my hometown so I'm presuming a lot of them will turn up and support. Hopefully we can get a few wins and go through."

As ever, Molumby is keeping his concentration on the  job at hand. That is why he has made such strides in his career to date and why a promising future lies ahead of him.

Republic of Ireland U19 Squad

Goalkeepers: Mark Travers (Bournemouth - On Loan at Weymouth), Brian Maher (St Patrick’s Athletic)

Defenders: Tyreke Wilson (Manchester City), Dara O’Shea (West Bromwich Albion - On loan at Hereford United), Canice Carroll (Oxford United), Warren O’Hora (Bohemians), Lee O’Connor (Manchester United), Jordan Doherty (Sheffield United)

Midfielders: Daniel McKenna (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Rian O’Sullivan (Brighton & Hove Albion - On loan at Worthing), Jayson Molumby (Brighton & Hove Albion), Aaron Bolger (Shamrock Rovers), Thomas O’Connor (Southampton), Kian Flanagan (Crystal Palace), Anthony Scully (West Ham United)

Forwards: Michael Obafemi (Southampton), John Martin (Waterford), Thomas Byrne (Drogheda United), Jonathan Afolabi (Southampton), Neil Farrugia (UCD)

Fixtures

UEFA Under-19 Championship 2018 Qualifying Round Group 7

Wednesday, October 4

Azerbaijan v Republic of Ireland, RSC, KO 15:00

Saturday, October 7

Republic of Ireland v Cyprus, RSC, 19:00

Tuesday, October 10

Republic of Ireland v Serbia, RSC, 13:00

But there's no such problem for Republic of Ireland Under-21 midfielder Liam Kinsella who will be able to draw on the experience of his father, former Republic of Ireland international Mark Kinsella, who is part of the coaching set-up for the team.

Mark, who is also part of the coaching set-up at SSE Airtricity League side Drogheda United, began working with Noel King's side at the end of 2017 European Championships qualifying campaign. 

Current Walsall midfielder Liam has been involved with the squad since the last campaign but claimed his first cap in the recent 3-1 win over Azerbaijan. Mark admits he's delighted to see his son fulfil his ambitions as a footballer and also, get to work alongside his son in camp.

Mark said: "It is a great experience to be with him during camp. He has been in football since he was eight with Walsall and it has always been his drive and ambition to become a footballer so this is a great moment. 

"He has done well to go up the levels where he was involved with the Under-19s as well and now it has led to his call-up to the Under-21s. I'm fortunate enough to be involved with the team as well at an international level which I'm really enjoying.

"Noel rang me up and spoke to me about Liam and then went to watch him. He said he was good enough to be involved with the squad which is absolutely fantastic."

Liam is progressing well with the English League One club and has already made four appearances for the Saddlers this campaign, having made 12 appearances for the club last season. 

With the 21-year old looking to build on his first Under-21 cap against Azerbaijan, Liam doesn't see having his Dad in camp as a distraction and admits he is enjoying every minute with the group.

Liam: "Obviously, I don't look at him as Dad during the camp but it's good to have him around to be able to speak to him during my time here.

"Whenever I ask advice during the camp, I see him as a coach and I'd speak to him like I would any other coach but it's good to have him around.

"I was involved the back-end of the last campaign and I've really enjoyed my time with the squad so far, it's a great experience. It's a tight group here and we all really get on so we're really looking forward to the next two games."

Republic of Ireland sit top of Group Five in their UEFA European Championships qualifying campaign following wins over Kosovo and Azerbaijan. Ireland face a double header at home with Norway set to visit on Thursday, with kick-off at 7.45pm, and Israel on Monday, with kick-off at 3.30pm.

With the double-header coming up, coach Mark has admitted the group are 'a joy to work with' and says he is really enjoying his time working in the international set-up. 

Working in the international set-up is different. It's not like a day-to-day club environment, you only have so much time to work with the players so it comes with it's own challenges," Mark said.

"But they're a really good group and I think that's why we've started really well in the campaign and hopefully we can continue to build on it. There are lads who've got the experience from the last campaign and then there are new lads who've carried it on. They're a joy to coach."

World champions Russia showed their class in the opening game of the tournament for both sides, even though it took them until the second half to break the deadlock.

Ireland's tactics worked well early on and they were able to match their opponents to go in at interval scoreless. But Russia got ahead in the second period with a quick goal.

Still, the Irish side, led by captain James Boyle (above), never gave up and had their moments in the game. And they only conceded a second goal when caught on the counter attack.

While a comeback did not happen, they will look at the positives from this game ahead of the meeting with England.

Ireland Squad
Goalkeepers: James Conroy, Justin Guiney, Patrick Hutton
Defenders: David Saunders, Kevin Cahillane, Simon Baker
Midfielders: Garry Hoey, Alan Wall, Keavan O'Rourke, Eanna Durham
Forwards: James Boyle, Neil Hoey, Chris McElligott

Fixtures
Wednesday, October 4: Ireland v England
Thursday, October 5: Ireland v Greece

FAI JUNIOR CUP 2017-2018

Round 3 Draw

Dublin Saturday

Tolka Rovers FC                                     v                                  Crumlin Utd.

Lakeview Swans FC                             v                                  Aston Village FC

South William Street Celtic          v                                  Rush Ath.

Glasnaion FC                                           v                                  Glebe North FC

Hartstown Hunstown FC                 v                                  Ballymun Utd.

Blackrock College FC                         v                                  Sandyhill Shangan FC

Cherry Orchard FC                               v                                  Broombridge Utd

Malahide Utd                                         v                                  Balscadden FC

Oliver Bond Celtic                               v                                  Liberties FC or St. Mochtas FC

Boot Road Celtic                                 v                                  Swords Celtic

Dunboyne FC                                          v                                  Drumcondra FC

Railway Union FC                                 v                                  Beggsboro FC

Ratoath Harps FC                                  v                                  Trinity Donaghmeade FC

Clontarf FC                                               v                                  Drumcondra/Stella Marris FC

Newlands Castlepark FC                  v                                  Kilnamanagh FC

Firhouse Clover FC                              v                                  Ballyogan FC

Dublin Sunday/NEFL

Castleknock Celtic                              v                                  St. Pauls Artane FC

Newfoundwell FC                                v                                  OMP Utd

Ely Woodlawn FC                                 v                                  Collinstown FC

Dingle Utd                                                v                                  Larkview Boys FC

Mc Kelvey Celtic                                  v                                  St. Francis FC

Ardmore Rovers FC                            v                                  Real Transilvania FC

Enfield Celtic                                          v                                  Clondalkin Celtic

Hardwicke FC                                         v                                  Trim Celtic

Bellurgan Utd                                         v                                  Rivervalley Rgs.

Newlands/Castle Park FC                v                                  Howth Celtic

Donnycarney FC                                   v                                  Bohemians Supporters Club FC

Kilbarrack Utd                                        v                                  Ayrefield Utd

Willow Park FC                                      v                                  Aylesbury FC

Muirhevna Mor FC                             v                                  Usher Celtic

St. Malachys FC                                     v                                  Sheriff YC

Ardee Celtic                                           v                                  Kilmore Celtic

Leinster Counties

Thomastown Utd                                 v                                  Hanover Harps FC

Courtown Hibs FC                                v                                  Naas AFC or Clane Utd

Gorey Rgs                                                  v                                  Corach Ramblers FC

Coill Dubh FC                                          v                                  Parkvilla Utd

North End Utd                                        v                                  Crettyard Utd.

Mullingar Town                                    v                                  Evergreen FC

Tombrack Utd                                        v                                  Naas Utd.

Rathangan FC                                          v                                  Highview Ath.

Wexford Bohs FC                                  v                                  St. Patricks Boys FC

Tullamore Town FC                             v                                  FC Killoe

Castlewarren Celtic                           v                                  New Ross Celtic

Kildare Town                                           v                                 Moyne Rgs

Newbridge FC or Birr Town FC     v                                  Killeshin FC

Gorey Celtic                                            v                                  New Oak Boys.

Ulster/Cavan/Monaghan

Convoy Arsenal FC                              v                                  Cavan Town FC

Lifford Celtic                                           v                                  Gweedore Celtic

Illies Celtic                                               v                                  Cappry Rovers FC

Castlefin Celtic                                      v                                  Drumkeen Utd

Whitestrand Utd                                  v                                  Rathmullen Celtic

Glenea Utd                                              v                                  Glengad Utd

Carn FC                                                       v                                  Kilmacreenan Celtic

Greencastle Utd                                   v                                  Milford Urd.

Cork Area

Waterloo FC                                            v                                  Grattan Utd

Carrigaline Utd “B”                             v                                  Mayfield Utd

Cathedral Celtic                                   v                                  Strand Utd

Rockmount FC                                       v                                  Greenwood FC

Youghal Utd or Avondale Utd      v                                  Knockraha FC

Leeside FC                                                v                                  College Corinthinans FC

Innisvilla FC                                             v                                  Macroom “B” FC or Riverside FC

Buttevant FC                                           v                                  Ringmahon Rgs.

Leeview Ath                                           v                                  Lakewood Ath.

Kilreen Cel or UCC Utd                     v                                  Cobh Wanderers FC

Bandon FC                                                v                                  Bunratty Utd

St. John Bosco FC                                 v                                  Knocknaheeny Celtic

Wilton Utd or UCC “A” FC              v                                  Glenthorne Celtic

Satelite Taxi’s FC                                  v                                  Drinagh Rgs or Douglas Hall FC

Springfield FC                                         v                                  Pearse Celtic

Everton                                            v                                  St. Mary’s FC

Limerick

Regional Utd                                           v                                  Murroe FC

Hill Celtic                                                  v                                  Palas Utd

Holycross FC                                            v                                  Caherconlish FC

Janesboro FC                                          v                                  Cappamore Celtic

Kennedy Park FC                                  v                                  Northside Legacy FC

Shelbourne FC                                       v                                  Summerville Rovers

Carew Park FC                                        v                                  Pike Rovers FC

Kilfrush Crusaders FC                         v                                  Caledonians FC

Coonagh Utd                                           v                                  Geraldines FC

Ballynanty Rovers                                v                                  Hyde Rangers FC

Nenagh FC                                                v                                  Croom Utd

Caherdavin Celtic                                v                                  St. Patricks FC

Clare/Desmond/Kerry

Glin Rovers                                              v                                  Castlegregory Celtic

AK Utd                                                        v                                  Newmarket Celtic

Castleisland FC                                      v                                  Killarney Ath.

Rathkeale AFC                                       v                                  Abbeyfeale Utd

Fenit Samphires FC                             v                                  Kilrush Rangers

Broadford Utd                                        v                                  Classic FC

Ballysteen FC                                          v                                  Avenue Utd

C G Killarney                                           v                                  Carrig Celtic

Killarney Celtic                                     v                                  Moher Celtic

Sporting Ennistymon FC                  v                                  Shannon Town FC

Coole FC                                                    v                                  Ballingarry AFC

Newmarket Celtic “B”                      v                                  Newcastlewest Rovers

Tipperary

Clonmel Town                                       v                                  Peake Villa FC

Clodiagh Rangers FC                           v                                  St. Michaels FC

Suirside FC                                               v                                  Galbally FC

Old Bridge FC                                          v                                  Ardcroney FC or Tipperary Town

BT Harps FC                                              v                                  Borroway Rovers

Thurles Town                                          v                                  Rosegreen Rgs.

Kilavilla Utd                                             v                                  Vee Rovers FC

Wilderness Rovers                              v                                  Moneygall FC

Bansha Celtic                                          v                                  Nenagh Celtic

Clonmel Celtic                                      v                                  Kilsheelan Utd

Waterford

Dungarvan Utd                                      v                                  Southend Utd

Kilmacow FC                                           v                                  St. Saviours FC

Villa FC                                                       v                                  Tramore FC

Waterford Crystal FC                              v                                  Ballinroad FC

Hibernians FC                                         v                                  Carrick Utd.

Tramore Rgs                                            v                                  Ferrybank FC

Mayo

Straide & Foxford FC                          v                                  Ballyvary Blue Bombers FC

Castlebar Celtic                                   v                                  Manulla FC or Fahy Rovers

Glenheist Rovers                                 v                                  Ballina Town

Iorras Aonthaithe FC                         v                                  Ballyglass FC

Kiltimagh/Knock Utd                        v                                  Claremorris FC

Westport Utd                                         v                                  Partry Ath

Galway

West Utd                                                   v                                  Salthill Devon

Corrib Celtic                                           v                                  Corrib Rangers

Dynamoe Blues FC                              v                                  Maree/Oranmore FC

Tuam Celtic                                             v                                  West Coast Utd

Galway Hibs FC                                      v                                  Claregalway Celtic

Mervue Utd                                            v                                  Merlin Woods FC

Roscommon-Sligo Leitrim

Dysart FC                                                   v                                  Carbury FC

Boyle Celtic                                             v                                  Glenview Stars FC

Ballinasloe Town FC                           v                                  Castlerea Celtic

St. John Ath                                             v                                  Melville Utd

Ballymore FC                                          v                                  Moore Utd

St. Peters FC                                            v                                  Ballisodare Utd

All ties to be played weekend of the 22nd of October 2017

FAI TV sat down with Ireland international winger Daryl Horgan to test his knowledge on all things Irish football. 

Check out the 10 questions with Daryl Horgan below and see if you can beat his score! 

Tom Mohan’s Republic of Ireland Under 19 side began their quest for UEFA European Under-19 Championship qualification with a scoreless draw against Azerbaijan in Waterford this evening.

The result leaves Ireland second in the table with Serbia leading the way following a 1-0 win over Cyprus this evening.

The Under 19’s can count themselves unlucky following a positive display that yielded plenty of opportunities but the deadlock couldn’t be broken.

Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Jayson Molumby came closest for Ireland but his effort rebounded back off the woodwork.

Mohan’s side face the Cyprus on Saturday in Waterford but will do so without defender Canice Carroll who picked up a late red card against the Azeri’s.

Ireland: Travers (GK), Carroll, Wilson, O'Shea, L. O'Connor, Molumby (C), Byrne (Afolabi 89), Scully (Obafemi 71), McKenna, O'Sullivan (Flanagan 42), Obafemi, Doherty

Ireland go into the game top of Group Five in the UEFA European Championships qualifying group having recorded impressive victories over Kosovo and Azerbaijan.

Norway visit Tallaght Stadium tomorrow evening with kick-off at 7.45pm as Ireland look to continue their impressive start ahead of the Monday's qualifier against Israel.

Under-21s Head Coach Noel King said: "It's going to be a tough test but it's one we're all looking forward to. We've started the campaign really well and you can sense that the players are really looking forward to getting back on the pitch.

"Norway are a really good side who have won a bronze medal in the Under-21s European Championships before and they've beat us but I've no doubt that we can get a positive result against them.

"I'm looking forward to this game as much as any game I've ever been involved in with the Under-21s and don't rule out this group of players. We've got plenty of talent in the group and there is plenty of confidence as well.

"Norway are going to be a strong, physical side who can play it long and short, they like to mix it up, so they will present us with problems. They're seeded higher than us but we've got to focus on ourselves."

Tickets for the game will be available on the day of the game, priced at €10 for adults and €5 for children/students/OAPs. Entry is free for FAI season ticket holders, Shamrock Rovers season ticket holders and IT Tallaght students.

With two huge home games coming up this week. King believes home advantage can play a huge part in the game and has urged supporters to get behind the team.

He added: "It would be great to get a good crowd down here and get behind the lads. Home advantage is obviously a big thing in football but especially in international football and I think it could have a huge impact.

"With the way they've started the group, don't rule out this group of players. They've really impressed me so far and hopefully we can continue to develop in these two games.

"You'd want a big crowd to come and drive them on. It definitely gives us that little edge in games. Hopefully the players can give the supporters a performance as well."

TEAM NEWS: Trevor Clarke, Olamide Shopido and Jake Doyle Hayes are all out through injury.

Republic of Ireland manager Martin O'Neill has agreed a new deal with the Football Association of Ireland. The contract extension will see O'Neill continue as manager until the end of the UEFA EURO 2020 campaign. 

During an interview with FAI TV O'Neill made the announcement and spoke about his optimism for the upcoming games and the years to come. 

The full FAI TV interview with Martin O'Neill can be watched below.  

QPR forward's Ryan Manning and Reece Grego-Cox had the best chances of the game in a dominant second-half spell but Norway held out to claim a point. 

Head Coach Noel King stuck with the same team which claimed the impressive 3-1 win in Azerbaijan but it was a frustrating first-half for the home side. 

QPR duo Grego-Cox and Manning linked well up front but failed to test the Norwegian goalkeeper Sondre Rossbach throughout the first-half. 

Ireland's first real effort came with just under 30 minutes remaining as Derry City forward Ronan Curtis won the ball 30-yards from goal and after a neat turn-off-pace away from Iver Fossum, his shot bounced in front of Rossbach but was well saved.

With 20 minutes remaining, Ireland should have taken the lead. Liverpool's Corey Whelan delivered a fantastic set-piece from the right and Rossbach missed his punch under pressure from Manning but Norway cleared with Declan Rice close to following up. 

Curtis fired wide from distance as Ireland continued to press forward in search of a winner which almost came in the 74th minute. Manning's powerful free-kick somehow found it's way into Rossbach's arms and two minutes later, Ireland had strong claims for a penalty turned down after Curtis was brought down in the area.

Ireland's pressure continued to mount as Manning got in down the left to find Danny Kane in the area and after his low effort was saved, Grego-Cox failed to turn the ball home with ten minutes remaining.

Connor Ronan came on with two minutes remaining but unfortunately, Norway were able to hold out to claim a valuable point as Ireland remain unbeaten.

Ireland Under-21s Head Coach Noel King said: "Norway are a good team. They've got a system and they play it well so it was always going to be a difficult match for us.

"I thought we stood up to the test really well and probably deserved to come away with a little bit more from the game. They caused us some problems in the first-half but I thought we dealt with those situations well and we were definitely the better team in the second-half.

"They were chasing the game in terms of the position in the table and we're now sitting on seven points out of nine so we're happy with what we've got so far."

Teams

Republic of Ireland: O'Hara (GK), Kane, Whelan, Donnellan, Sweeney, Cullen (C), Rice, Charsley, Grego-Cox, Manning (Ronan 87), Curtis.

Subs: Bossin (GK), Quigley, Kinsella, Shaughnessy, Mulraney, Delaney.

Norway: Rossbach (GK), Ryerson, Hanche-Olsen, Ajer, Jenssen, Normann (Johnsen 6 (Svendsen 79)), Fossum (C), Thorsby, Risa, Odegaard, Bjordal.

Subs: Wichen (GK), Reitan, Pallesen Knudsen, Zekhnini.

Referee: Luis Miguel Branco Godinho (POR)

Tickets
FAI Ticket Collections will be open from 14:00 until kick-off at Lansdowne Rugby Club

Ticketmaster will have two vans outside Aviva Stadium from 16:00 to purchase tickets.

A very limited number of Premium Level tickets remain available. Click here to purchase tickets

Build Up 

General

All food and beverage outlets will be open throughout the stadium from 18:15 for General Admission tickets and from 17:45 for Premium Level ticket holders. Supporters are encouraged to be in the stadium at least one hour early to soak up the pre-match atmosphere and to enjoy a pre-match performance from traditional musician, Brian Brody. 

Safety & Security
Supporters travelling to Aviva Stadium are advised to arrive at least one hour ahead of kick-off to get through security and they are reminded of new security measures:

- Aviva Stadium Management are introducing a “No Bag Policy” to all events in the stadium

- It is important that supporters do not bring any bags or rucksacks to the game

- Searching procedures will be in place at all entry points and because of this it is advisable all supporters arrive a little earlier than normal

- Extra Safety & Security measures will be in place at this fixture

Match Programme
Make sure to pick up the ultimate match souvenir, which includes features on Darren Randolph, exclusive column by Keith Andrews, profiles of the opposition and a four-page Kids Zone section

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

Kids Zone
Don't forget to sign up to our new Kids Zone Newsletter to win mascot & flagbear places, exclusive competitions and much more. Sign up here

Live Coverage
RTE 2 will broadcast live coverage of the game from 19:00

Republic of Ireland MNT Squad

Goalkeepers: Darren Randolph (Middlesbrough), Rob Elliot (Newcastle United), Colin Doyle (Bradford City)
Defenders: Cyrus Christie (Middlesbrough), Richard Keogh (Derby County), Shane Duffy (Brighton & Hove Albion), Ciaran Clark (Newcastle United), John O'Shea (Sunderland), Kevin Long, Stephen Ward (Burnley)
Midfielders: Aiden McGeady (Sunderland), James McClean (West Bromwich Albion), Glenn Whelan, Conor Hourihane (Aston Villa), Jeff Hendrick, Robbie Brady (Burnley), James McCarthy (Everton), David Meyler (Hull City), Harry Arter (Bournemouth), Eunan O'Kane (Leeds United), Wes Hoolahan (Norwich City), Jonathan Hayes (Celtic), Callum O'Dowda (Bristol City), Daryl Horgan (Preston North End)
Forwards: Shane Long (Southampton), Daryl Murphy (Nottingham Forest), David McGoldrick (Ipswich Town), Sean Maguire (Preston North End), Scott Hogan (Aston Villa), Aiden O'Brien (Millwall) 

FIFA World Cup Qualifier
Republic of Ireland v Moldova
Aviva Stadium, KO 19:45
 

It's easy to spot Warren O'Hora on the pitch due to his height and it's also easy to see why so many people speak so fondly of his ability.

After making his Bohemians' debut against St Patrick's Athletic this season, the powerful defender helped to continue a strong trend at the Dublin club of producing their own players following his step up from their SSE Airtricity National Under 19 League team.

Now O'Hora is making the leap into the international set-up with the Republic of Ireland Under 19s. He is part of Tom Mohan's squad for three UEFA European Championship qualifiers this week and his elevation to this stage owes a lot to his development.

He describe the Under 19s as a 'great League' and he feels it helped him to catch Mohan's eye and earn he trust of Bohemians' boss Keith Long and his assistant Trevor Croly. 

"I think the coaches at the Under 19s, Graham Lawlor and Craig Sexton, absolutely had a big part to play in my development," O'Hora told FAI TV.

"Obviously Keith (Long) and Trevor (Croly) have been big for me as well, just to allow me to train with the first team week in, week out."

O'Hora has been forced to make some big decisions in the last few months. There was a the offer of a scholarship to the United States, rumoured interest from Scottish Premiership clubs, and the chance to impress in Bohemians' first team.

He weighed up his options before choosing to stay at home. For someone who grew up close to Dalymount Park, the opportunity to become a regular for The Gypsies was too good to turn down and so too was the platform in the SSE Airtricity League to maintain his development.

Having started studying in DIT, he will need to learn how to balance football with his academic responsibilities. But he has proved that he can overcome most obstacles, such as impressing amongst a group of full-time professionals.

"Obviously I'm a homegrown player and I think I'm in a good position to play first-team football. Meeting up with the lads for the Irish team, knowing that they are abroad full-time training, is great knowing that I am in that category now," explained O'Hora.

"Hopefully I can just kick on from here and stay humble and stay in my stride."

O'Hora featured in Ireland's 2-1 friendly over Czech Republic at RSC recently, so he knows what to expect from the venue ahead of the games against Cyprus and Serbia.

"They will be tough games but I think we will be up for it and we will be hoping to qualify for the EUROs," he said.

"Tom (Mohan) is a great manager. He really goes through everything and if there are any problems he will sort them out. I think he can motivate players and gives confidence to players to give their all."

There is a clear sense of pride in O'Hora's tone when he speaks about playing for club and country. He knows that being a home-based player in the Ireland set-up is something that he needs to fully embrace.

"It's everything (to play for your country), especially on home soil. I think playing for Ireland down in Waterford is the best thing that can actually happen for these games," he said.

Ireland are aiming to pick things up again following a scoreless draw with Azerbaijan on Wednesday evening in front of a strong crowd in the RSC.

Waterford FC season ticket holders and Waterford IT students can avail of free entry to the next two games, along with FAI Season Ticket holders.

Republic of Ireland U19 Squad
Goalkeepers: Mark Travers (Bournemouth - On Loan at Weymouth), Brian Maher (St Patrick’s Athletic)
Defenders: Tyreke Wilson (Manchester City), Dara O’Shea (West Bromwich Albion - On loan at Hereford United), Canice Carroll (Oxford United), Warren O’Hora (Bohemians), Lee O’Connor (Manchester United), Jordan Doherty (Sheffield United)
Midfielders: Daniel McKenna (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Rian O’Sullivan (Brighton & Hove Albion - On loan at Worthing), Jayson Molumby (Brighton & Hove Albion), Aaron Bolger (Shamrock Rovers), Thomas O’Connor (Southampton), Kian Flanagan (Crystal Palace), Anthony Scully (West Ham United)
Forwards: Michael Obafemi (Southampton), John Martin (Waterford), Thomas Byrne (Drogheda United), Jonathan Afolabi (Southampton), Neil Farrugia (UCD)

Fixtures

UEFA Under-19 Championship 2018 Qualifying Round Group 7

Saturday, October 7
Republic of Ireland v Cyprus, RSC, KO 19:00

Tuesday, October 10
Republic of Ireland v Serbia, RSC, KO 13:00

The Football Association of Ireland has continued its work to raise awareness on homelessness by using the 2018 FIFA World Cup Qualifying Round game between Republic of Ireland and Moldova.

In the official match programme, four pages were reserved for a special edition of The Big Issue, which included a feature on Thomas Morgan, manager of the Homeless World Cup team, as well as pieces on the Late Nite Leagues and the Irish Street Leagues.

Match tickets were also given to members of the Homeless World Cup squads - men's and women's - who did brilliantly in the recent tournament in Oslo.

Also, in a link up with Dublin Simon Community, the FAI supplied a number of premium level tickets as well as kids goodie bags to families who have recently been displaced from their homes.

The FAI has a long-standing relationship with organisations working to tackle homelessness around the country with the Irish Street Leagues affiliated to the Football For All programme and several other projects undertaken by the Intercultural Department.

For further information, visit the following:
www.dubsimon.ie 
www.irishstreetleague.com 

Murphy scored both goals in the first-half to secure the win ahead of the crunch tie against second-placed Wales on Monday, October 9th in Cardiff.

Fresh from signing a new two-year deal with the Football Association of Ireland, Martin O'Neill selected Callum O'Dowda in the starting XI, who became the youngest player to start a competitive international under the Irish boss.

He also decided to go with two strikers in the starting XI as both Shane Long and Murphy started, and the latter immediately reaped the rewards. With just two minutes on the clock, Stephen Ward's long throw was flicked on by Shane Duffy and the Nottingham Forest striker fired home with a clinical left-foot finish. 

Just before the 20-minute mark, Murphy put Ireland into a two-goal lead with his second of the game. Once again, Ward took advantage of the space down the left to get a deep cross towards the back-post and Murphy directed his header brilliantly into the right-hand corner. 

Ireland didn't have it all their own way in the first-half as Sergiu Platica unleashed a fierce drive towards the top right-hand corner and Darren Randolph produced an excellent one-handed save to deny him in the 27th minute.

Ireland continued to press forward in search of goals and Shane Long should have added to the scoreline with 30 minutes remaining. Wes Hoolahan danced past two defenders to slide the ball through to O'Dowda who saw his shot saved and Long could only put the effort inches wide of the right-hand post.

With eight minutes remaining, O'Neill handed a senior debut to former Cork City and current Preston North End striker Sean Maguire but Ireland failed to add to the scoreline despite Moldova going down to ten men in the final minute. 

Substitute Harry Arter was fouled by Alexandru Gatcan and after getting up, Gatcan put his head towards Arter and the referee brandished the red card.

The result sees Ireland maintain third position on 16 points with Wales one point ahead of them in second and leaders Serbia two points ahead after they suffered a 3-2 defeat in Austria.

Teams 

Republic of Ireland: Randolph (GK), Christie, Clark, Murphy (Arter 77), Long (Maguire 82), O'Dowda, Hendrick, Hoolahan (McGeady 78), Ward, Meyler (C), Duffy.

Subs not used: Doyle (GK), Elliot (GK), O'Shea, Keogh, Whelan, O'Kane, Hourihane, Hogan, K. Long.

Moldova: Cebanu (GK), Racu, Epureanu (C), Ionita, Gatcan, Dedov (Cociuc 55), Ginsari, Bordian, Platica (Ambros 78), Anton, Rozgoniuc.

Subs not used: Koselev (GK), Pascenco (GK), Graur, Antoniuc, Cojocari, Pascenco, Ojog.

Referee: Bas Nijhuis (NED)

Ireland started well and were in front within minutes of kick-off. James Boyle latched onto a Simon Baker clearance and finished powerfully across the body of the Greek goalkeeper.

Christy McElligott added a second by striking low past the keeper from outside the area. McElligott then turned provider, back-heeling into the path of Kevan O'Rourke who struck low to the bottom corner.

Ireland continued to control the game in the second half and scored their fourth late in the game. McElligott nodded Garry Hoey's corner in at the back post to wrap up a solid Irish display and secure qualification into the quarter-finals.

Ireland will come up against Poland on Saturday, kick-off 10am Irish time.

Captain Jayson Molumby netted a hat-trick and Jonathan Afolabi scored a brace as Tom Mohan's team responded to the scoreless draw with Azerbaijan in the best possible way.

Southampton youngster Afolabi opened the scoring on 12 minutes before Molumby (pictured above) got his first of the game just three minutes later. Seizing control early on allowed Ireland to dictate the rhythm of play.

Mohan had made five changes to his starting line-up and Afolabi certainly made the most of his opportunity to impress in what was a crucial game in Ireland's hopes of qualifying for next summer's finals in Finland.

However, it was local lad Molumby who went away with the match ball as he drove forward from midfield to give his team a cutting edge and finished his chances when they fell his way.

It was an eye-catching performance by Ireland as every player contributed and they pinned Cyprus back inside their own half for large periods, while the passing was crisp and 12 attempts on goal shows their attacking intent.

Ireland will now go into Tuesday's final game against Serbia looking to claim a second victory and top Group 7.

Republic of Ireland: Travers; McKenna, O'Shea, O'Hora (Doherty 46), Wilson; T O'Connor, Molumby (Obafemi 74); L O'Connor (Martin 67), Bolger, Farrugia; Afolabi.

Cyprus: Demetriou; Ioannou, Adoni, Menelou, Charalampous; Pounnas (Katsantonis 46), Panayides; Konstantinou (Stylianides 79), Gerolemou (Genethliou 46), Louka; Charalampous.

Referee: Alain Durieux (Luxembourg).

Captain Jayson Molumby netted a hat-trick and Jonathan Afolabi scored a brace as Tom Mohan's team responded to the scoreless draw with Azerbaijan in the best possible way.

Southampton youngster Afolabi opened the scoring on 12 minutes before Molumby (pictured above) got his first of the game just three minutes later. Seizing control early on allowed Ireland to dictate the rhythm of play.

Mohan had made five changes to his starting line-up and Afolabi certainly made the most of his opportunity to impress in what was a crucial game in Ireland's hopes of qualifying for next summer's finals in Finland.

However, it was local lad Molumby who went away with the match ball as he drove forward from midfield to give his team a cutting edge and finished his chances when they fell his way.

It was an eye-catching performance by Ireland as every player contributed and they pinned Cyprus back inside their own half for large periods, while the passing was crisp and 12 attempts on goal shows their attacking intent.

Ireland will now go into Tuesday's final game against Serbia looking to claim a second victory and top Group 7.

Republic of Ireland: Travers; McKenna, O'Shea, O'Hora (Doherty 46), Wilson; T O'Connor, Molumby (Obafemi 74); L O'Connor (Martin 67), Bolger, Farrugia; Afolabi.

Cyprus: Demetriou; Ioannou, Adoni, Menelou, Charalampous; Pounnas (Katsantonis 46), Panayides; Konstantinou (Stylianides 79), Gerolemou (Genethliou 46), Louka; Charalampous.

Referee: Alain Durieux (Luxembourg).