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Cork City claim SSE Airtricity U17 League title

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Somehow, after 120 minutes of action, the game ended scoreless as Cork defender Jamie O'Sullivan performed heroics in the final minutes of normal time to deny Bohemians. But goalkeeper Alan Kelleher saved two penalties in the shoot-out to claim the title for Paul Bowdren's side. 

It was a tense affair in front of a crowd of 657 spectators that included Cork City manager John Caulfield and several members of the first-team squad who will be contesting the Irish Daily Mail FAI Senior Cup Final this Sunday.

Cork had a number of chances at the start of the second half and really should have taken the lead when a lofted ball forward found striker Cian Murphy, who then turned defender Denis Smith but his powerful effort was well saved.

Bohemians started to create chances of their own and could have gone ahead with just over 20 minutes remaining. Substitute Liam McGrath collected a loose ball in the penalty area but after a neat turn his shot was blocked as far as Jordan Maguire, who looked to find the top corner but forced a one-handed save out of Kelleher.

The Dublin club continued to attack in the final stages as McGrath's cross from the right found striker Lido Lotefa but defender O'Sullivan was able to put the Bohs striker off from making any telling contact.

O'Sullivan was at the centre of the action again in the 87th minute when substitute Francky Haba flicked a cross towards goal but the Cork ace was able to overhead kick the ball off the line.

However, O'Sullivan went one better again. As Bohs broke on the counter attack, Lotefa hit a low cross against the post and the ball fell to Sean McManus, but O'Sullivan somehow cleared the danger off the line with a diving header.

Neither side could find a breakthrough in normal time or added time, so the contest needed to be decided on penalties. Cork keeper Kelleher proved to be the hero as his team celebrated in front of their home crowd.

Cork head coach Bowdren said: "I'm extremely proud of the players. We've struggled to keep clean sheets this season but we defended brilliantly and maybe rode our luck at times.

"It was a fantastic final and full credit has to go to Bohemians who were brilliant. Someone has to win on penalties and todays it was us - and the players did excellently to score all of the penalties.

"It says a lot about the characters of the players to come through such a difficult game and win the title. It's an excellent way to finish the season in what has been an excellent League. The standard has continually improved over the years and today's final shows that."

Cork City: Kelleher; Leahy, Lynch, O'Sullivan (O'Riordan 108), O'Mahony (O'Sullivan 55), Doyle (Djomo 90), Bargary, van Sinderen (Holland 74), Collins, Bowdren (Minihane 84), Murphy.

Bohemians: Bohan; Trehy (Hennessy 75), Smith, Curley, Byrne, Kelly, Okpako (McGrath 68), Maguire, Lotefa, Moylan (McManus 78), Nwaokolo (Haba 62).

Referee: Kevin O'Sullivan.

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For the second week in a row, Cork City were lifting SSE Airtricity League silverware at Turner's Cross as their Under 17 team overcame Bohemians in a pulsating final that had to be settled by a penalty shoot-out.

U12 Blitz showcases nationwide talent

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34 games were played over the day and a sign of the closeness of the competition was that only thre games were won by more than two goals.

After the Group Stages Home Farm, Lagan Harps Cabinteely and Real Tubber topped the four groups with Evergreen, Newbridge United, Tullamore Town and New Ross Town taking the runner-up spots.

Finishing third in the groups were Lakewood Athletic, Cavan Shamrocks, Westport United and Cashel Town, while Holycross, Ringmahon, Carrick Rovers and Newtown Forbes took the fourth spots.

Following lunch it was semi-finals and knock-out time. Again, things were very close in the Play-Offs with two games ending 1-0 and two going to penalties.

Lakewwod just got the better of Carrick United 1-0 while it was the same score-line when Newtown Forbes took 13th place after just beating off Ringmahon Rangers.

Holycross took 11th as they beat Cavan Shamrocks on penalties while Cashel Town also needed spot kicks to defeat Tullamore Town for 9th after the game ended 1-1.

Onto the business end of the Cup and Shield competitions and the semi-final took place after lunch. Home Farm and Real Tubber qualified for the Cup Final with 1-0 wins over Lagan Harps and Cabinteely respectively.

The final was another tight affair ending 1-1 after normal and the five-minute period of extra-time. But it was the Dublin girls that prevailed on penalties to take home the Cup.

In the Shield last four games Newbridge were 1-0 winners over Evergreen while Westport’s defence of their title went all the way to penalties before they went out to New Ross Town.

As with so many of the games this final was decided by only one goal and it was Newbridge United that are the new holders of the Shield.

The trophies and medals were presented by the FAI’s Competition and tournament organiser Simon Honan who was assisted on the day by FAI WNC members Padraig Harnett, Brid McGinty, Dave Breen and Johnny Baird.

The organisers also thanked the staff of the AUL where the pitches were in perfect condition, the AUL catering staff, the officials and the Continental Tyres crew who set up the fun area that certainly went down well with all the girls.

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The FAI Women’s Under 12 National Cup Blitz finals saw 16 teams, plus coaches and supporters, descend on the AUL Complex on a perfect day for one of the most exciting day of the underage football calendar.

Kelleher rests star striker as Cork hopes to Shine

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The club are currently preparing for the biggest day in the club’s history on Sunday, as they face UCD Waves in the FAI Cup final at the Aviva Stadium, with kick-off at 12pm.

The club have enjoyed a progressive season in the Continental Tyres Women’s National League as well, having claimed 22 points this season in fifth position. Their form has been helped by the return of striker Shine at the start of the season from Scottish club Glasgow City FC.

Since rejoining her first club, Shine has notched 12 goals this campaign including the opener in the 3-0 win over Wexford Youths in the semi-final. The former Raheny United forward was rested for the 4-1 win over Galway WFC and only played 45 minutes against Youths last weekend, as Kelleher has one eye on the final.

“We had to rest players as we had a trip to Galway on the Thursday so we had to rotate our squad to make sure everybody was fit for the final,” Kelleher said.

“Clare (Shine) didn’t play in Galway just from a rest point of view and again, we gave her 45 minutes. She’s one of the top-scorers in the league this season and a fantastic talent so you’ve got to mind those type of players.”

It has been a difficult route to the final for Cork. Both Peamount United and Wexford Youths are set to face each other on Saturday at Ferrycarrig Park to decide the Women’s National League title, but Cork beat them both on the way to the Aviva.

A tightly-contested 3-2 win over the Peas in the quarter-finals was followed up by an impressive 3-0 win at Wexford Youths in the semi-finals, and Kelleher says it gives his side huge confidence heading into the game.

“We’ve got here the hard way. The Peamount game was a great game at Bishopstown but the best game we played this year was the 3-0 win over Wexford in the semi-final.

“We had total control. It gives us huge confidence going into the final knowing we’ve beat the two best teams in the league.”

They face a UCD Waves side who’ve finished one place above them in the league and have won all three league matches between the two sides this season. The Cork boss has praised the quality of the opposition, and has praised the hard work at Cork ahead of Sunday’s final.

“I think UCD are a superb football side. I’ve been involved with the Women’s National League in the past three seasons and for me, they’re one of the top footballing teams,” Kelleher admitted.

“They’re very organised, they play some excellent attacking football and they’ve got some top, top players in their ranks. We know what they’re about and we know how difficult it will be.

“Reaching the final is huge recognition for the work everyone has put in at the club, the players and the staff, it’s been a huge effort over the last few years. It’s been incredibly hard to get to this stage.”

To purchase tickets for Cup Final Day, click here

 

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Cork City WFC manager Frank Kelleher has done everything outside of wrapping star striker Clare Shine in cotton wool to make sure the forward is fit and firing on Sunday.

Great Dane looks to make it lucky number 3

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Dane Massey

Following a close call from relegation in 2012, the former Bray left back is poised for his third FAI Cup Final.

“Its been a whirlwind five years for myself, cup finals, league titles, the Europa league, its the kinda stuff that I couldn’t have dreamed of when I signed for Dundalk. Stephen Kenny asked me to join and take a chance and I am glad I did as my career has took off since then and its the best decision I have ever made

“We arrived in here and it was all new faces, Richie Towell was here and I had never heard of him before, there were players here who had no highlights in their career. Within a couple of weeks we got very close and it was a special group of players. It was only a matter of time before we won something or do something special and you could see it in the results it was a special group."

Massey has been a key figure in Kenny’s defence in his five years with notable attention both at home and abroad. There was even suggestions that he could be on the radar of Republic of Ireland manager Martin O’Neill. While many nights are an integral part of Massey’s highlight reel there is one that stands out the most. 

“A lot of players say the game against Bate Borisov in Tallaght but for me it was the first league win against Cork City was my personal highlight. It was my first league title and it really meant something for me and my family. To get your first league title is always something you will always remember.”

Reflecting on whats been a strong end to their league campaign Massey feels the form they have shown in recent weeks will be of great benefit going into this Sunday’s final against Cork. 

“We did a mid season break with a training camp in Cork, you could see from the results following the camp that we really did excel. We finished strong and we are going in confident on Sunday, everyone is in flying form and we are playing well.

“There isn’t that many opportunities to play at the Aviva Stadium, it really is just the FAI Cup so as a player playing in Ireland, you’re not going to get many opportunities to play there. This is our third year there and you cant get it for granted and you have to take in every moment. It’s a special day for the players and the families so I am really looking forward to it.” 

To purchase tickets for Cup Final Day, click here 

 

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When Dane Massey walked though the doors of Oriel Park surely he didn’t envisage what lay ahead of him as Stephen Kenny assembled his team on the first day of pre-season in 2013.

FAI Cup Finals Day Ticket Offer

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Aviva Stadium

Bring your team to Aviva Stadium for the Irish Daily Mail FAI Cup Final and Continental Tyres FAI Women’s Cup Final.

 

The initiative is open to teams aged under 16 and below.

 

2 Adults + 8 Child tickets for just €20, 4 adults and 16 child tickets for €40 and so on.

 

The package is available to purchase here - http://www.ticketmaster.ie/event/18005351A106700D?did=sbulc 

 

Sunday November 5, Aviva Stadium:

Continental Tyres Women's Senior Cup Final - Cork City FC v UCD Waves, 12pm. Gates open 10.45am.
Irish Daily Mail Senior Cup Final - Dundalk FC v Cork City FC, 3.30pm.

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FAI Cup Finals Day – Schoolboy/Girl Clubs Initiative

Waves have a problem but a good one ahead of Aviva date

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UCD Waves

Waves are currently preparing to face Cork City WFC in Sunday’s final at the Aviva Stadium, their first final since 2014, with kick-off at 12pm.

The Dublin club go into the game on the back of a narrow 2-1 defeat to Women’s National League title-hopefuls Peamount United at Greenogue on Sunday. Despite the defeat, Kealy is happy with the mood in the camp.

“The mood is very good and they’re not getting too run away with it,” Kealy said.

“They’re all really excited of course, everyones looking forward to it and they know they’ve still got a job to do.

“There is a bit of nerves there of course but we’ve got every reason to be confident heading into the game. We’re all determined and we all want to make sure we represent ourselves fully.”

Where Waves might have the edge over Cork City is the amount of experience amongst their ranks. Player of the Year Karen Duggan is a regular in the Ireland starting XI as well as Aine O’Gorman and Chloe Mustaki played for Bordeaux last season in the French top flight.

Unfortunately, O’Gorman picked up an injury whilst on international duty but Kealy has praised her impact ahead of the game with the squad.

“Aine O’Gorman has been excellent. She’s injured at the moment and won’t be able to play but she’s been brilliant around the club, offering her guidance and advice.

“Of course, Karen is nice and calm going through it all, directing the youngsters on and off the pitch. Chloe is another player who has experienced that big game environment before and you can see that little difference in the way they’ve conducted themselves this week.”

Duggan was rested for last Sunday’s defeat following a hamstring injury sustained whilst on international duty but that handed a starting spot to Naimi Chemaou.

Chemaou took the starting opportunity with both hands as she scored one of the goals of the Women’s National League season to draw level, and Kealy admits he has a few selection dilemnas ahead of Sunday’s final.

“Naimi definitely has the talent and the technical ability to create problems for any team. I suppose I’ve got a good problem when it comes to the starting XI as we’ve got options across the park,” Kealy admitted.

“Naimi played because Karen was rested and she showed what she can do, no doubt. We haven’t decided on the final XI for the final and they’re still a couple of places up for grabs.

“We need to get the balance right so everyone is a consideration at the moment.”

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UCD Waves manager Noel Kealy has admitted he is facing a problem, but a good one ahead of the Continental Tyres FAI Women’s Cup Final

FAI Coach Education Coaching Conference to take place

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Coaching Conference

What is it?

The FAI Coach Ed Coaching Conference is an event made up of guest speakers and practical demonstrations. The event has been created to give participants information and guidance on best practice in coaching from guest speakers on different topics throughout the two day workshop. The event can also act as CPD (Continuous Professional Development) Licence holders.

This event aims to be an annual event and will look to add on from year to year.

Guest Speakers

Ruud Dokter – FAI High Performance Director

Gerard Dunne - FAI Head Performance Analyst

John Peacock – Former England U17 manager , currently Manchester United (Consultant) UEFA and FIFA

Peter Rudbaek – Denmark FA Technical Director for the past 12 years

Sue Ronan – FAI Head of Womens Football & Republic of Ireland Womens National Team Head Coach (2010-2016)

Alan Kelly – Former Republic of Ireland Senior International and current Everton FC Goalkeeper Coach

Dr Seamus Kelly – Former League of Ireland player and current UCD Lecturer

Venue: IT Carlow - 24th & 25th November

Tickets: €175 - TICKETS AVAILABLE HERE  

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Coach Education Coaching Conference to take place in Carlow IT on November 24 and 25.

FAI Cup Finals ticket information

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FAI Cup Final

Continental Tyres FAI Women's Senior Cup Final

Cork City v UCD Waves

Kick Off 12:00

Irish Daily Mail FAI Senior Cup Final

Dundalk v Cork City

Kick Off 15:30

Tickets

Tickets for the two games are available onlineHERE 

Match Day Ticket Purchases 

Tickets will be available for purchase ahead of the Women's Final from the window at turnstiles block Q and R from 11.00 am. Ticket collections will be available at turnstile Q from 11.00am.

Two Ticketmaster vans will be located on the corner of Lansdowne Road and Northumberland Road from 13:00. 

Tickets on the day are priced at €10 for adults and €5 for children. 

FAI Season Ticket Holders

Entry to the games is free for all FAI Season Ticket holders. Entry for FAI Season Ticket holders is via the podium entrance on the West Stand side of the Aviva Stadium. Please ensure to bring your FAI Season Ticket card to gain entry.  

 

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Ticket information for Sunday's Cup Finals in the Aviva Stadium.

Wexford Youths win 2017 Continental Tyres WNL title

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Emma Hansberry and Rianna Jarrett provided the goals - one in each half - for Laura Heffernan's team as they won the WNL title for the third time in their history.

For Peamount, it was a cruel way to end what was a fantastic season. They can take a lot of confidence from their performances, especially for such a young squad, but Wexford had the edge on the final day and that made the difference.

It was always going to take either a mistake or a moment of magic to break the deadlock, and that is exactly what came. With time running out in the first period, Hansberry displayed her excellent technique of shooting from distance by lobbing Peamount goalkeeper Naoisha McAloon.

Hansberry has been a stand-out player for Wexford since joining in Castlebar Celtic and the midfield ace showcased her game-winning ability with one of the most important goals of her career to date.

Wexford began the second half with the intent of adding to their lead and Rianna Jarrett went close with a header within minutes, but McAloon was alive to the danger and claimed the ball in the air.

The visitors, however, were not about to give up. Amber Barrett slid a pass through to Heather Payne and the Galway girl used her speed to break through but her shot was too high over the target.

Up the other end, Jarrett will feel that she should have scored when she raced onto a loose ball. But the sharpshooter hit her effort straight at the out-rushing McAloon.

But Jarrett made up for it just a minute later when she headed in from close range. A break down the right wing saw Linda Douglas make enough space to fire over a high cross that temped McAloon over her goal line but Jarrett got to the ball first to nod it in.

That proved to be Jarrett's final contribution to the game as she was replaced by Claire O'Riordan within seconds. Yet it was Edel Kennedy who had the next best chance that McAloon denied brilliantly with a diving save.

Peamount continued to fight until the very end but Wexford were able to compete with them all the way and, ultimately, secure the victory that landed them the League title.

Ahead of the Continental Tyres FAI Women's Senior Cup Final at Aviva Stadium on Sunday, November 5, this was a fantastic advertisement for women's football.

Wexford Youths WFC: Lenehan; Douglas, Gleeson (Cassin 27), Dwyer, Conlon; Casey (Frawley 55), Kennedy, Murphy, Hansberry, Webb; Jarrett (O'Riordan 67).

Peamount United: McAloon; O'Callaghan (Kinsella 88), Barnes, Moloney, Kealy (Masterson 81); Ryan-Doyle, McCartan, Farrelly, Lynch (McKevitt 68), Payne; Barrett.

Referee: Michelle O'Neill.

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The 2017 Continental Tyres Women's National League was settled in spectacular fashion as Wexford Youths WFC overcame Peamount United 2-0 on the final day in front of a record attendance at Ferrycarrig Park.

Cork City WFC win Continental Tyres Women's Senior Cup Final

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Cork City WFC have won the 2017 Continental Tyres FAI Women's Senior Cup Final thanks to a 1-0 win over UCD Waves at the Aviva Stadium. 

In a game of few chances, UCD Waves began the better side with the majority of possession in the opening half hour. However, time and again the final ball didn’t find it’s target for the Dublin side.

The breakthrough came in the 35th minute with a wonderful goal from Cork. Katie McCarthy picked up the ball in her own half, found Shine with a sublime ball over the top. Brooke Dunne came out to narrow the angle but Shine brilliantly rounded the Waves keeper and slotted home.

Clare Shine

UCD Waves’ best chance came with ten minutes reamaining in the game. Cork goalkeeper Amanda Budden’s clearance from the edge of her area landed at the feet of Catherine Cronin 40 yards from goal. The winger took a touch before firing a fantastic lob over the stranded Budden only for it to go inches past the Cork post.

That was to be the last chance of the game as Cork held on for a famous win thanks to Player of the Match Clare Shine’s goal, one worthy of winning any cup final.

Cork City WFC: Budden (GK), Burke, O'Brien, McNamara, Duncliffe, Bourque, O'Donovan (Dring 64), Noonan, Sheehy, Shine, McCarthy.

UCD Waves: Dunne (GK), Duggan, Walsh, Carroll, Cahill, Mustaki, Beirne, Nolan, Cronin, Letmon (Chemaou 64), Dunbar (Gaynor).  

 

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Cork City WFC 1-0 UCD Waves

Cork City win the Irish Daily Mail FAI Cup

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Irish Daily Mail FAI Cup Winners

Cork City won the Irish Daily Mail FAI Cup in dramatic fashion beating Dundalk 5-3 on penalties at the Aviva Stadium.

Mark McNulty saved Michael Duffy’s penalty to give Kieran Sadlier the opportunity to send the cup to Leeside for the second year running. Sadlier duly seized the opportunity to become an instant hero.

Both goalkeepers were busy in the opening period, with Gary Rogers denying Karl Sheppard from Stephen Dooley’s pull back the closest either side came to scoring.

It looked like Cork City had won the game in the last minute of normal time as Alan Bennett’s backheel was clawed out of the top corner by Gary Rogers. A remarkable save.

Four minutes into the first period of extra time, the deadlock was broken. Michael Duffy’s free kick from the right hand side was met by Niclas Vemmelund who found the top corner of Mark McNulty’s goal with a marvellous header.

City regrouped at half time of extra time with John Caulfield’s men finding the equaliser with nine minutes remaining. A fine through ball found Achille Campion who beat the offside trap and finished clinically past Gary Rogers.

Penalties followed with both teams converting the first seven spot kicks before Mark McNulty saved from Michael Duffy low to his right.

That gave Kieran Sadlier the chance to win the cup for City and he duly despatched his penalty to the corner of the net to spark wild celebrations on the pitch and in the stands.

The result not only sealed the Irish Daily Mail FAI Cup but also ensured the league and cup double for Cork City to round off a fantastic season.

Dundalk: Rogers (GK), Gannon, Gartland (Hoare 91), O’Donnell ©, Duffy, McMillan, McGrath (Connolly 72), McEleney (Mountney 107), Massey, Benson, Vemmelund.

Cork City: McNulty (GK), Bennett ©, Delaney, Keohane (Sadlier 58), McCormack, Beattie, Dooley, Morrissey (Campion 99), Sheppard, Griffin, Buckley (Bolger 99).

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Dundalk 1-1 Cork City (Cork City won 5-3 on penalties)

Crawford names Ireland U18 squad

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U18 squad

Squad

Aaron Connolly (Brighton)

Aaron Bolger (Shamrock Rovers)

Adam Idah (Norwich)

Andy Lyons (Bohemians)

Brian Maher (St Patricks Ath)

Ciaran Brennan (Sheffield Wednesday)

Conor Coventry (West Ham United)

Gavin Kilkenny (Bournemouth)

Joe Redmond (Birmingham)

Jordan Doherty (Sheffield United)

Kameron Ledwidge (Southampton)

Kevin Healy (West Bromwich Albion)

Matthew Shiels (Rangers)

Michael Obafemi (Southampton)

Oisin McEntee (Newcastle United)

Richard O'Farrell (St Patricks Ath)

Rory Brown (Wolverhampton Wanderers)

Rowan Roache (Blackpool)

Will Ferry (Southampton)

Will Smallbone (Southampton)

Fixtures

Republic of Ireland v Belgium. 14:00 local time. November 9, Pinatar Arena, Murcia, Spain

Republic of Ireland v Netherlands. 18:00 local time. November 11, Pinatar Arena, Murcia, Spain

Republic of Ireland v Czech Republic. 17:00 local time. November 13, Pinatar Arena, Murcia, Spain

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Jim Crawford has named his Republic of Ireland Under 18 squad to travel to Spain for a three game invitational tournament.

Squad trimmed ahead of 2018 FIFA World Cup Qualifying Play-Off

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Martin O'Neill

Martin O'Neill has trimmed down his Republic of Ireland Men's National Team squad for the 2018 FIFA World Cup Qualifying Play-Off with Denmark.

Ireland will be away first on Saturday, November 11 when they meet Denmark in the Parken Stadium, Copenhagen, before returning to Dublin for the second leg in Aviva Stadium on Tuesday, November 14.

Injuries have ruled out defender Richard Keogh (Groin), midfielder James McCarthy (Hamstring) and forward Sean Maguire (Hamstring). David Meyler is suspended for the first leg game in Copenhagen.

The Ireland squad began their preparations for the Play-Off at the FAI National Training Centre on Monday, November 6 and will complete three more sessions there before departing for Copenhagen on Thursday, November 8.

Republic of Ireland MNT Squad
Goalkeepers: Darren Randolph (Middlesbrough), Rob Elliot (Newcastle United), Keiren Westwood (Sheffield Wednesday), Colin Doyle (Bradford City)
Defenders: Cyrus Christie (Middlesbrough), Matt Doherty (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Paul McShane (Reading), Shane Duffy (Brighton & Hove Albion), Ciaran Clark (Newcastle United), John O'Shea (Sunderland), Kevin Long, Stephen Ward (Burnley)
Midfielders: Aiden McGeady (Sunderland), Jeff Hendrick, Robbie Brady (Burnley), Glenn Whelan, Conor Hourihane (Aston Villa), David Meyler (Hull City), Harry Arter (Bournemouth), Eunan O'Kane (Leeds United), Wes Hoolahan (Norwich City), Callum O'Dowda (Bristol City), James McClean (West Bromwich Albion)
Forwards: Shane Long (Southampton), Daryl Murphy (Nottingham Forest), Scott Hogan (Aston Villa), Aiden O'Brien (Millwall)

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Republic of Ireland set for two games against Denmark

VIDEO: Behind the Scenes at the FAI Cup Final

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A behind the scenes view of match day at the Aviva Stadium as Cork City lifted the Irish Daily Mail FAI Cup for the second year in a row.

John Caulfield's side won the trophy following a dramatic penalty shootout win against Dundalk. 

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An alternative view of match day on cup final day at the Aviva Stadium.

Men's Colleges and Universities team receive their caps

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The team played a number of high profile international fixtures in the 2016-2017 season with thirty players making an appearance for Greg Yelverton’s side. The side contained a mixture of SSE Airtricity League players along with emerging talents from the likes of the Leinster and Munster Senior Leagues. It demonstrates the continuing growth of the game within Third Level which has evolved into the Colleges and Universities Football League. The CUFL has grown from strength to strength in its twelve seasons of existence.

The league currently contains eighty-one teams across five tiers of men’s football along with the twenty-eight women’s teams competing across two divisions in the competition. In 2015, following decades of competing as national representative sides as Colleges and Universities individually, both affiliates agreed, in conjunction with the FAI, upon forming a combined international team to compete at international level.

As a result of this new relationship and its success in its first year, the FAI agreed to award international caps to all players that played for the side and be recognised at the 3 FAI International Player of the Year awards ceremony where Maynooth University’s Paul Rooney was the inaugural winner for 2015-16. Rooney has since gone on to sign for Millwall FC.

Players are becoming more aware of the opportunities on offer at Third Level with the opportunity to further their academic progression and play football at a competitive elite level with the lucrative scholarships available has enticed nearly ninety players from the SSE Airtricity League to continue their education.

FAI Chief Executive John Delaney was in attendance at the event and presented the caps to each player. He would also announce that Head Coach Greg Yelverton has agreed to extend his contract with the team until 2019. The Cork native is also a Football Facilitator with UCC and a current student himself on the UEFA Pro Licence.

Yelverton took up the post in 2015 and led Team Ireland to the World University Games this summer in Taipei. He is looking forward to the next campaign with optimism as he can plan with the bulk of his squad from last season along with some of the best players emerging from the SSE Airtricity League Under 19s and Under 17s.

Colleges and Universities 2016-2017 Squad

Matthew Connor (Waterford IT), Ian Molloy (IT Blanchardstown), Cathal O’Hanlon (UCC), Conor Kearns (UCD) Joe Coll (GMIT Galway).

Ben McAuliffe (UCC), David Brookes (Athlone IT), Gary Kinneen (NUI Galway), Gavin Kearney (DCU), Alan Kehoe (IT Blanchardstown), Eoghan Dempsey (IT Carlow), Mark Slater (Maynooth University), Maurice Nugent (NUI Galway), Ross Taheny (DCU), Sean McLoughlin (UCC), Sean O’Mahony (UCC).

Gareth McDonagh (IT Carlow), Greg Sloggett (UCD), Jamie Hollywood (IT Blanchardstown), Jason McClelland (UCD), Shane Daly-Butz (UCC), Shane Dunne (IT Carlow), Conor Barry (NUI Galway), John McKeown (Maynooth University).

Alan O’Sullivan (DCU), Daire O’Connor (UCD), Daniel Pender (UCC), Jason Lyons (Athlone IT), Garbhan Coughlan (UL), Joe Doyle (Dublin IT).

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The Republic of Ireland Colleges and Universities team celebrated their first-ever international caps presentation at the Aviva Stadium on Sunday during FAI Cup Finals Day.

FAI Intermediate Cup 3rd Round Draw

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Everton V UCD

St Mochtas V Home Farm

CIE Ranch V Carrigaline United

Cockhill Celtic V Swords Celtic

Rockmount V Maynooth University

Mid Sutton Sportslink V Cherry Orchard

Crumlin United V Edenderry Town

Avondale United V Cobh Wanderers

Newtown Rangers V Kilnamanagh

Dublin Bus V Killester United

Malahide United V Skerries Town

Blarney United V Glebe North

Letterkenny Rovers V Midleton

Firhouse Clover V Castleview

Leeds V Ballymun United

Douglas Hall V Inchicore Athletic

FIXTURES TO BE PLAYED WEEKENDING 26TH OF NOVEMBER 2017

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FAI Intermediate Challenge Cup 3rd round draw.

Ireland U21: King selects 18-man squad for Norway

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The squad will meet up on Saturday ahead of the UEFA 2019 Under-21 European Championships qualifying match against the Norwegians in Marienlyst Stadion, Drammen, with kick-off at 7pm (6pm local time).

King has gone for a largely-unchanged squad with his side currently top of qualifying group five on 10 points having claimed three wins out of their opening four matches. Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher comes in for Nottingham Forest's Liam Bossin in the only change with Bossin sidelined through injury. 

Fourth-placed Norway held Ireland to a 0-0 draw at Tallaght Stadium in October and will need to win on Tuesday to keep any qualification hopes alive whilst Ireland will be looking to continue their unbeaten start to the campaign.

Republic of Ireland Under-21 Head Coach Noel King said: "The squad is really looking forward to meeting up later in the week and starting our preparations for the trip to Norway.

"As the Norwegians proved in the game in October, they are a very good team who will provide us with a difficult test. The players have started the campaign brilliantly and to be in the position at the top of the table after four games is fantastic and a credit to them.

"Norway will be boosted by their 3-1 victory against Germany and nobody is in doubt about the enormity of the challenge we face but given the levels these lads have reached, nothing would surprise me from them."

Republic of Ireland Under-21 Squad

Goalkeepers: Kieran O'Hara (Manchester United), Caoimhin Kelleher (Liverpool)

Defenders: Danny Kane (Huddersfield Town), Ryan Sweeney (Stoke City, on loan at Bristol Rovers), Shaun Donnellan (West Bromwich Albion, on loan at Walsall), Corey Whelan (Liverpool), Ryan Delaney (Burton Albion)

Midfielders: Josh Cullen (West Ham, on loan at Bolton Wanderers), Harry Charsley (Everton), Connor Shaugnessey (Leeds United), Liam Kinsella (Walsall), Declan Rice (West Ham United), Jake Mulraney (Inverness Caledonian Thistle), Connor Ronan (Wolverhampton Wanderers).

Attackers: Reece Grego-Cox (QPR), Ryan Manning (QPR), Ronan Curtis (Derry City), Joe Quigley (Bournemouth, on loan at Newport County).

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Republic of Ireland Under-21 Head Coach has selected an 18-man squad ahead of the upcoming qualifier against Norway.

Under-18 Boys’ Interprovincials takes place this weekend

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The three-day event will see a series of six matches played with Provinces awarded two points for a win and one point for a draw. The format leaves for an exciting finale in the Sunday morning outings.

The Interprovincial series will be the first step in the process of selecting the FAI Schools International 18-man squad which will compete in the Centenary Shield competition. The 2017/18 campaign will see the Irish away to Wales and England in their opening fixtures and home to their counterparts Northern Ireland and Scotland.

Ulster won this prestigious tournament last season in a pulsating conclusion but will they retain the favourities tag this time out? The reigning Champions open their account against Connacht at 4pm as they kick starting proceedings. Then Leinster will face Munster (pictured above) at 5.30pm with all games taking place in the AUL Complex, Clonshaugh.

An impressive 13-players will make a welcome return from last season with one from Leinster, three from Ulster, four from Munster and five from Connacht all starring.

Two of these players have already been capped for the Republic of Ireland Schools select in the Centenary Shield in 2016 with Ronan Manning (Yeats College and formerly of Calasanctius College, Oranmore) and Darryl Walsh (St. Declan’s College, Waterford) featuring extensively for Paddy O’Reilly’s charges.

It will be another stern contest for the provincial sides as Connacht, Ulster and Leinster all finished well and could have won the title twelve months previously so an opening day win will be vital for these lads.

Leinster have a phenomenal record in this tournament, having captured the title 12 times in 16 years. Their latest victory came in 2015 when they snatched a win at the death to take the title from Munster but only by goal difference, the slightest of margins in that campaign. 

Ian Ryan (St. Kevin’s Community School, Clondalkin) takes over the managerial baton from Albert Sugg (St. Kilian’s DSD). Continuing alongside Ian will be school colleague Fintan Sheridan and newbie Davey Cullen who applies his trade in Woodbrook College, Bray. The trio will again be assisted by GK Coach Stephen O’Reilly and physio Ferdia McKeon.

It’s a new look Leinster outfit with the Dublin schools supplying a array of talent most notably from Balbriggan, Blackrock, Clondalkin, Coolock, Corduff, Cabinteely, Donaghmede and Templeogue. As well as outside the Pale; as Wexford Town, Thomastown, Navan, Trim and Maynooth are all represented.  Another scholar to see a return to this Leinster outfit is Templeogue College starlet Jack Ryan.

St. Joseph’s College grad Alan Murphy is in a very strong position in Connacht with young goalkeeper Lorcan Callaghan (St. Mary’s College, Ballysadare) making an appearance for a third consecutive season along with netminder Cian Mulryan (St. Joseph’s College, Galway), Ryan Smith (Summerhill College, Sligo), Ronan Manning (Yeats College) and Aaron Perry (St. Attracta’s Community School, Sligo). Their experience should add some versatility to the mix.

Connacht last won the title back in 2013. Can these talented individuals secure success this time around as colleague’s Alex Lee and Alan Murphy join forces again with Alan to drive them forward in this season’s endeavours

Munster to their credit have experienced Interprovincial success back in 2006 in Limerick and again in 2012 when the tournament was moved to Dublin so they’re no strangers to upsetting the odds. They came extremely close to capturing the honours two years ago, but can they go one better now this weekend. It looks like a strong squad has been named for this Interprovincial battle.

Manager Derek O’Brien who teaches in Ardscoil na Mara, Tramore has been around the Interprovincial setup for quite a few years now. His experience at this level of competition will be invaluable. Added to this recipe is a return for quartet Darryl Walsh (St. Declan’s CC, Waterford), Beinean O’Brien (St. Colman’s College, Fermoy), Jack Larkin (Ardscoil na Mara) and Adam Conway (De La Salle College, Waterford) who all impressed last season for the Southerners.

Darryl Walsh will be a key player in this weekend’s events. The young Waterford star progressed to the International ranks last season and captained the Republic of Ireland Schools against England.  A definite one to watch out for the future.

Football strongholds such as St. Francis College, Rochestown have three players featuring with goalkeeper Alan Kelleher, Colin O’Mahony and Rory Doyle all selected. The Roco trio experienced National Cup success with their School last March when they captured the Bank of Ireland FAI Schools Tom Ticher Junior Cup following the successful demolition of St. Eunan’s College, Letterkenny on spot-kicks as Kelleher performed some heroics that afternoon in Home Farm as Doyle captained the side winning out 4-2 after a stalemate in extra time. Doyle also went on to capture the Bank of Ireland FAI Schools Dr. Tony O’Neill Senior Cup with St. Francis to round off a Cup double for the youngster and his high flying School as they saw off Westport side Rice College who ironically enough don’t have any players featured for Connacht.

The Interprovincial series will make for some interesting rematches as the Letterkenny contingency that Rochestown met that day will see Connor O’Reilly and James Carolan line out for Ulster. St. Eunan’s were missing their central midfielder and team Captain Michael Gallagher that afternoon as he was ruled out due to injury but he’s fit and ready to go for Ulster on Friday afternoon!

Pobalscoil Ghaoth Dobhair pupil Ethan Harkin enjoyed a wonderful Cup campaign himself for the Gweedore side as the youngster helped his school mates to National honours in the Bank of Ireland FAI Schools John Murphy Senior ‘B’ Cup back in February when they overcame Gaelcholáiste na Mara of Arklow in Clones. Surprisingly there are no scholars selected for that Wicklow crew in the Leinster select.

One notable absentee for the Northerners is student Daragh Ellison (St. Eunan’s College). The youngster will miss out on the Interprovincial series as he trials this weekend in Stoke City. A major setback for Browne’s boys as they attempt to retain the title.  

The 2016 Champions will look on the experience of Adam O’Connor (St. Clare’s College, Ballyjamesduff), Corrie Lee Bogan (St Columba’s College, Stranorlar) and Scott Prendergast (Virginia College) who already have tasted success following their selection last season.

Can management duo Paul Browne and David O’Herlihy (St. Eunan’s College) steer them to a two in row? Only time will tell.

Balbriggan Community College mastermind William O’Connor will take over as Head Coach from Paddy O’Reilly (Trinity Comprehensive School, Ballymun) who steps down from the position following five years in the management fold. O’Connor will be assisted by Coach John McShane (Dublin Oak Academy, Bray), GK Coach Conor Foley (Athlone Community College) and Performance Analyst Ollie Horgan (St. Eunan’s College).

Following the tournament on Sunday evening, a training squad will be selected by the Irish Schools’ management team with their first session scheduled for Saturday, November 25 in Abbotstown. The final squad will be announced after Christmas for the first International fixture on February 15, away to Wales.

In keeping with the long-standing tradition of maintaining the interest in the competition until the final matches on Sunday, the draw for Saturday’s and Sunday’s matches will be made following the games on Friday evening.

Interprovincial Panels:

Leinster: Kian Clarke & Mitch Byrne (Moyle Park College, Clondalkin), Cian Lee (Boyne Community School), Peter Adigun (Riversdale Community College), Padraig Finnerty (St. Patrick’s Classical School, Navan), Dylan Thornton(Cabinteely Community School), Sonny Conway & Jake Walker (St. Kevin’s CC, Clondalkin), Alex Kelly (Maynooth PPS),   Jack Ryan (Templeogue College),  Lido Lotafa (Balbriggan Community College), Kallum Broaders (CBS Wexford), Michael O’Keane (Blackrock College), Colm Whelan (Grennan College, Thomastown), Ali Regbha (Chanel College, Coolock), Seán Bohan (Gaelcholáiste Reachrann, Donaghmede)

Management: Ian Ryan & Fintan Sheridan (St. Kevin’s CC, Clondalkin), Davey Cullen (Woodbrook College, Bray), Stephen O’Reilly (GK Coach), Ferdia McKeown (Physio)

Munster: Robert Osborne (St. Brendan’s College, Killarney), Mike Nzongong & Adam Conway (De La Salle College, Waterford), Cian Bargary (Cashel CS), Jack Larkin (Ardscoil na Mara, Tramore), Cian Murphy (Coláiste Dún Iascaigh, Cahir) Darryl Walsh (St. Declan’s CC), Jack Forde (Glanmire CC), Shane O’Riordan (Midleton CBS), Beineoin O’Brien(St. Colman’s College, Fermoy), Douwe Van Sindron & Brian Lynch (Presentation Brothers College, Cork), Dean Beresford (St. Augustine’s College, Dungarvan), Alan Kelliher, Colin O’Mahony & Rory Doyle  (St. Francis College, Rochestown)

Management: Derek O’Brien (Ardscoil na Mara, Tramore), Daniel Murphy (Coláiste Choilm, Ballincollig), Cathal Lordan (St. Francis College, Rochestown), Conor Coad (Coach), Darryl McGrath (Physio)

Ulster: Daniel Houghton & Fionn McClure (Carndonagh Community School), Corrie-Lee Bogan (St. Columba’s College, Stranorlar), Scott Prendergast, Seosamh Sheerin & Josh Hannon (Virginia College), Ethan Harkin (Pobalscoil Ghaoth Dobhair), James Carolan, Michael Gallagher & Connor O’Reilly (St. Eunan’s College, Letterkenny), AdamO’Connor (St. Clare’s College, Ballyjamesduff), Liam Murray (Patrician High School, Carrickmacross), Ethan Coll (Deele College, Raphoe), Stephen Doherty (Scoil Mhuire, Buncrana), Mark McAteer (Mulroy College, Milford), Aaron Mulligan (Ballybay Community College)

Management: Paul Browne & David O’Herlihy (St. Eunan’s College, Letterkenny)

Connacht: Lorcan Callaghan (St. Mary’s College, Ballysadare), Ryan Smith & Gearoid Mulligan (Summerhill College, Sligo), Liam Whyte (St. Gerald’s College, Castlebar), Hakeen Ryan, Harry Rogers, Colin Kelly & Cian Mulryan (St. Joseph’s College, Galway), Callum McElvery (Holy Rosary College, Mountbellow), Ronan Manning, Dónal Higgins & Adam Rooney (Yeats College, Galway), Aaron Perry & Liam Kerrigan (St. Attracta's CS, Tubbercurry), Niall Morohan(Carrick on Shannon Community School), Calym Crowe (Coláiste na Coiribe, Knocknacarra)

Management: Alan Murphy & Alex Lee (St. Joseph’s College, Galway), Kevin Murphy (Coach)

Under-18 Boys’ Interprovnicial Tournament

Friday, November 10

4.00pm Ulster v Connacht

5.30pm Leinster v Munster

Saturday, November 11

3.00pm Draw will be made on Friday evening

4.30pm Draw will be made on Friday evening

Sunday, November 12

10.00am Fixtures TBC

11.30am Fixtures TBC

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64 of the top players in Irish schools line out for the FAI Schools U18 Boys’ Interprovincial Tournament this weekend.

Squad update ahead of Play-Off First Leg

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The full Republic of Ireland squad took part in training on Thursday, November 9 at FAI National Training Centre.

Both Stephen Ward and Jeff Hendrick, who had undergone specialised training sessions with FAI medical staff in previous days, came through the session without any problems.

Captain Seamus Coleman and forward Jonathan Walters linked up with the squad in a supporting role ahead of the departure to Copenhagen, while goalkeeper Colin Doyle has returned to his club.

Republic of Ireland MNT Squad
Goalkeepers: Darren Randolph, Keiren Westwood, Rob Elliot
Defenders: Cyrus Christie, Matt Doherty, Paul McShane, Shane Duffy, Ciaran Clark, John O'Shea, Kevin Long, Stephen Ward
Midfielders: Aiden McGeady, Jeff Hendrick, Robbie Brady, Glenn Whelan, Conor Hourihane, Harry Arter, David Meyler, Eunan O'Kane, Wes Hoolahan, Callum O'Dowda, James McClean
Forwards: Shane Long, Daryl Murphy, Scott Hogan, Aiden O'Brien

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No injury concerns as full squad train.

Ireland U18: Belgium win opening game of Invitational Tournament

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Belgium went into a two-goal lead before half-time, with goals courtesy of Ibrahim Kargbo and Alan Mayanga and before Shawn Adewoye scored Belgium's third goal during the second half.

Over a five-day training camp, Ireland will also line out against Netherlands and Czech Republic near Murcia, in the Pinatar Arena.

Republic of Ireland U18s manager Jim Crawford said: "It was a learning opportunity for the players. They now know that if they will be playing competitive international football at Under 19 level, the quality of opposition in the elite phases. It's a great learning tool for the players going into the Under 19s.

"I thought we were very good in the second-half. We created several chances. Our build-up play was good. We were looking a lot more composed. Looking ahead to the next two games, we will be looking to improve on this performance.

"It's been a new experience for some of the players playing international football. This tournament gives Under 19 manager Tom Mohan a chance to see how the players are developing."

Ireland return to action for their second game of the tournament on Saturday evening against Netherlands. Kick-off is at 18:00 local time (17:00 Irish time).

Republic of Ireland: Brian Maher; Ciaran Brennan, Joseph Redmond, Kevin Healy, Kameron Ledwidge; Rowan Roache (William Smallbone 78), Conor Coventry; Gavin Kilkenny, Matthew Shiels (Richard O’Farrell 46), William Ferry; Adam Idah.

Fixtures

Republic of Ireland v Netherlands. 18:00 local time. November 11, Pinatar Arena, Murcia, Spain

Republic of Ireland v Czech Republic. 17:00 local time. November 13, Pinatar Arena, Murcia, Spain

Photo Credit: Pinatar Arena.

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The Republic of Ireland Under 18s lost 3-0 to Belgium in their opening game in a four-team Invitational Tournament in Spain.
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