Former Republic of Ireland International Keith Andrews and current Republic of Ireland Women’s International Megan Campbell were on hand today to launch the SPAR FAI Primary School 5s Programme with a pop up training session at Keith’s former primary school, Scoil Mhuire CBS, Dublin. 

The five-a-side school blitzes are open to boys and girls from 4th, 5th and 6th class, and puts emphasis on fun and inclusivity. SPAR and the FAI are looking to surpass 2017 participation figures, which saw 1,495 schools and 28,576 children lace up their boots to take to pitches around the country. Registration for the programme will close on February 9th, and county blitzes will kick off at the end of February. Winning schools progress from county level to regional then provincial finals, with the lucky few making it all the way to the National Finals, which will be held on the hallowed turf of Aviva Stadium on May 30th.

The SPAR FAI Primary School 5s Programme is an initiative organised by the Football Association of Ireland Schools (FAI Schools). SPAR’s support of the competition has been in place since 2015, and has seen participation figures grow year on year to become the largest primary school’s competition in the country. The number of schools signing up for the participation programme has jumped from 1,064 in 2015 to 1,495 last year, benefitting thousands more children in the form of encouraging a healthy and active lifestyle. Particularly pleasing for SPAR has been the increase in the number of girls giving it a go, 40% of participants are now female and SPAR, as well as Republic Of Ireland Women’s International Megan Campbell, are eager to see this number rise.

Speaking about the programme Colin Donnelly, SPAR Sales Director commented: “SPAR is very proud to be involved with this programme for the fourth year, which, thanks to sustained growth, now gives almost 29,000 boys and girls nationwide the opportunity to represent their school and county in a national level competition. We are continually inspired by the enthusiasm and passion shown by students and teachers taking part in the programme which is helping to drive the programme to new levels.”

“We have 400 high quality, conveniently located outlets spread across the country who are equally as enthusiastic about this programme, which allows us to give back to our loyal customers and help support schools and communities across the country.”

Mr. Seán Carr, FAI Schools Chairman added: “The competition has gone from strength to strength thanks to the assistance of our sponsors, SPAR, who have been supporting the programme since 2015 and put considerable time and effort into making it a huge success. The nationwide spread of schools who are choosing to take part, and the increase in female participation, which now stands at 11,384 students is particularly pleasing. I would encourage all primary schools to sign up, and experience the positive benefits of the programme first hand.”

Register for the SPAR FAI Primary School 5s Programme by February 9th at www.fai.ie/primary5

Managers Tom Mohan (pictured above) and Tommy Dunne will use the match as preparation for upcoming matches including the UEFA Under-19 Championships Elite Round and the Bobby Smith Cup.

Speaking ahead of Thursday's game, Under-19 manager Tom Mohan said the game will act as preparation for the upcoming months, including March's Elite Round in Portugal.

"We've got a double-header of friendlies against Romania in La Manga next month so this game gives us an opportunity to have a look at the players, ahead of those games and the Elite Round."

Players like Brighton's Warren O'Hora have played under Mohan this season, when he was a student in Cabra's ETB. Mohan admitted tomorrow's game will also give him the chance to look at potential Under-19 internationals of the future.

"It's a great opportunity to see the ETB players. It widens my scope in identifying players. The ETB side will be a very strong one. Some have played across the water and in the League of Ireland."

Tommy Dunne (pictured below) is an ETB Coordinator in Cork and will take charge of the ETB FAI Select XI in Thursday's match. He is expecting a competitive game.

"It's a great opportunity for our players, playing against the best players in the country. We have players coming from different ETB Courses throughout the country. We're looking forward to playing Tom's side. Some of our players could even play their way into Tom's thoughts."

Dunne admitted that his team will only come together for the first time before the game, but he has spoken to ETB Coordinators around the country to find out the strengths of the players involved.

"I spoken to the other Coordinators ahead of the game. We will set the players up, and hopefully the challenge of playing the national team will get them through the 90 minutes. Our players will get the opportunity to further themselves in the game."

Republic of Ireland Under-19 Squad: Aodh Dervan, Brian Maher, Cieran Dunne, Edward McGinty, Owen Wal, Jack Keaney, Jack O’ Keefe, James McSweeney, Jamie Hamilton, Liam Walsh, Luke Mc Nally, Neil Farugia, Paul Fox, Sean Mc Donald, Cian Murphy, Gavin Smyth.

ETB FAI Select XI Squad: James Fitzgerald, Sean O’Driscoll, Nathan Coleman, Brian Cabraley, Jordan McGuire, Michael Cregan, James Tierney, Jason Cross, Dylan O’Neill, Joe Manley, Shay Doherty, Mark Birrane, Eric Donnelly, Liam Brady, Dean Williams, Sean Traynor, Brandon Payne, Andrew Farrell, Cody Mulhall, Conor Young. 

Aviva Ireland today announced the extension of its naming rights of the Aviva Stadium until 2025. The company, which has been a proud partner to the IRFU and FAI since 2010, also sponsors and supports two successful grassroots programmes – the FAI’s Soccer Sisters programme and the IRFU’s Mini Rugby Festivals. Both play an important role in the development of the two sports and encouraging the participation of over 7,500 children, every year.

“The Aviva is an Irish icon, one of the world's great stadiums. It is the home of many Irish victories and wonderful sporting drama”, said Mark Wilson, Group CEO of Aviva. “We are delighted to extend our sponsorship for a further five years and continue our successful association with the FAI and IRFU in support of Irish football and rugby.”

Welcoming the announcement, FAI CEO, John Delaney, said: “It is fantastic for the Football Association of Ireland to extend our partnership with Aviva Ireland and maintain that connection with the home of Irish sport. Since the Aviva Stadium was redeveloped, we have enjoyed some terrific days there with our Republic of Ireland teams, Men’s and Women’s domestic Cup Finals, international club games, and numerous grassroots events. This shows that our national stadium caters for all levels of Irish football.

“We can be extremely proud of Aviva Stadium being considered amongst the best stadia in Europe, which is why UEFA chose it to host the 2011 Europa League Final and for four games at EURO 2020. We look forward to working with Aviva Ireland, the staff at Aviva Stadium, and the IRFU over the next five years as we continue to provide the best possible experience for our supporters, stakeholders, and partners.”

IRFU CEO Philip Browne commented: “Aviva has been a great supporter of Irish Rugby over the past eight years and we look forward to further developing our partnership in the years to come. Aviva continues to make a significant investment in the grassroots of our game supporting the growth of our minis programme, as well as supporting the national team and of course the home of Irish rugby, the Aviva Stadium.”

Stadium Director, Martin Murphy said: “We are delighted that Aviva has renewed its sponsorship of the Aviva Stadium. That it has done so early is testament to the success of the partnership and the important role the stadium plays in Irish life, playing host to sporting and music occasions as well as business events and conferences. We are continuously working to evolve the stadium and are delighted that Aviva has agreed to continue its investment in this significant element in Ireland’s sporting and cultural infrastructure.”

Commenting on the announcement, Aviva Ireland CEO, John Quinlan, said: “As a company with a strong Irish heritage, we are committed to investing in Irish sport across all levels. Our announcement today is not just about the naming rights of the Aviva Stadium, it is also about ensuring that we support the development of rugby and soccer in Ireland. Inspiring young children and nurturing future sporting heroes is at the heart and soul of the sponsorship. Both the IRFU and the FAI have been great to work with over the past eight years. We have witnessed some truly memorable moments – we look forward to being a part of many more on the hallowed turf.”

Since it opened on May 14th 2010, the Aviva Stadium has hosted more than 140 major events attended by over 7 million people, while the Aviva Stadium’s Community Fund has given out over €1 million in grants to more than 70 community groups in the local area.

DCU Head Coach Declan Roche will pit his first year side against keen rivals UCD when the three day tournament gets under way in Dublin from February 22-24.

Roche steered DCU to a first time success in this unique competition which is confined to university freshers last year beating UCC with an extra time winner at College Park.

DCU Director of Sport and Healthy Campus James Galvin and last year’s winning skipper Jamie Lennon conducted the draw for the 2018 tournament with the majority of the games set to take place at the AUL Complex and the final in Tolka Park on Saturday afternoon February 24.

It promises to be a historic occasion for the Glasnevin university who recorded their first ever Harding Cup success last year on a memorable afternoon at College Park with a dramatic extra-time victory over University College Cork.

The leading Irish fast food brand Rustlers - part of the Kepak Group – are now the main sponsors of the Harding Cup as part of their overall agreement to support all men’s and women’s Third Level Football competitions throughout the island of Ireland.

The Harding Memorial Trophy, to give the competition its full title, was first played for in 1970 when it was presented to the Irish Universities Football Union by the late Albert W Harding (Bert) Chairman of UCD AFC 1970-1975 who had previously served for many years as the distinguished Honorary Secretary of the Dublin Amateur Football League.

The Harding Cup remains unique among Third Level Football cup competitions as it’s strictly restricted to first year university students who get just one opportunity to play in it. 

IUFU Chairman Terry McAuley expressed his delight at DCU Soccer Club’s agreeing to host this year's Harding Cup.

‘On behalf of the Irish Universities Football Union I wish to congratulate DCU Soccer Club on offering to host the 2018 Rustlers Harding Cup. It’s a big undertaking for them but with the full support of DCU President Professor Brian MacCraith, Director of Sport and Healthy Campus James Galvin and Ken Robinson Chief Executive DCU Sport plus the expertise of Soccer Development Officer Fran Butler, his Head Coach Declan Roche and the DCU Soccer Club committee I have no doubt that it will be a very enjoyable and successful three days of football for first year students to experience’ said McAuley.

Speaking at today’s draw, Cian O’Donnell, Rustlers Assistant Brand Manager said  “Today's draw whets the appetite for what should be a fantastic few days of football at Dublin City University in February. Rustlers is proud to be supporting Irelands young footballing talent as part of our overall commitment to University and College Football, and we are looking forward to our first experience of this cup competition.

2018 RUSTLERS IUFU Harding Cup

Quarter Finals
DCU v UCD
University of Limerick v Maynooth University
UCC v NUI Galway
Trinity College Dublin v Mary Immaculate College Limerick.

All games to be played on Thursday February 22 at AUL Complex KO 2pm.

Semi Finals
Trinity College Dublin/Mary Immaculate College Limerick v University of Limerick/Maynooth University
DCU/UCD v UCC/NUI Galway.

Both games to be played on Friday February 23 at AUL Complex ko 2pm

2018 RUSTLERS IUFU Harding Cup Final

Tolka Park, Saturday 24th February 2pm

Among the large number of attendees were the Ard-Mheara, Micheal McDonncha as well as many local councillors and politicians who joined representatives from local authorities, key government departments and members of various local community groups in supporting the launch. 

The More Than A Club project aims to develop new social enterprises aligned with professional football clubs in Ireland and Wales which will design, develop and deliver innovative social programmes centred on health, education and social inclusion. The pilot project is supported by the Ireland Wales European Territorial Co-Operation programme, which is helping to strengthen collaboration between Ireland and Wales to address common economic and social challenges.

The initiative will see the FAI and Welsh project partners, Vi-Ability cooperate with local professional football clubs in Ireland and Wales and assist them to develop social enterprise based community development schemes. These community focussed schemes will look to provide supports to address important social needs within disadvantaged communities.

The project will empower Bohemians to recognise and utilise the powerful attraction of football and the value of their own club brand locally to promote social good. It will encourage them to work in partnerships with key agencies and groups with an interest in community development to deliver important social programmes. In the process, it will see the club evolving as more valuable community entities becoming more relevant to more people locally.

FAI Competitions Director Fran Gavin was on hand to launch the initiative in Dalymount and said;

“The FAI is delighted to be able to facilitate this opportunity for the Bohemian Football Club and Foundation. We believe that if football clubs engage with their community in a more inclusive way, it can positively affect the club’s sustainability. We hope the model being developed in cooperation with Bohemian FC can act as a flagship model which other SSE Airtricity League of Ireland clubs can look to emulate”.

Following engagement with all League of Ireland football clubs within the Ireland Wales Cooperation area, Bohemian FC and Cork City were invited to participate in this pilot project because both clubs have demonstrated a genuine appetite to broaden their footprint in the local community and this was a major factor in these clubs being chosen for this pilot project.

The WNT are currently in the Azores ahead of two friendly international games against Portugal this week. The first fixture will take place tomorrow at 7pm (6pm local time) as Colin Bell's Ireland side look to start the New Year with a positive result. 

Ireland are currently unbeaten in their FIFA 2019 World Cup qualifying campaign after their impressive 0-0 draw in the Netherlands in November and will continue their campaign in April against Slovakia at Tallaght Stadium. 

Kiernan played a major role in the draw against the Netherlands, coming on in the second-half, and she believes the WNT can continue that form in 2018, starting with tomorrow's game against Portugal. 

The Shelbourne Ladies striker said: "It was a fantastic year for the team and I was delighted to be a part of it. 

"To end the year with the result against the Netherlands was fantastic and a real confidence boost to the whole team. It shows we can get results against the best teams and that we're right in the qualifying campaign.

"It's important we continue that form into this year and these two games against Portugal will be a great test. It was a long trip out here but we're all looking forward to getting back on the pitch tomorrow."

Colin Bell named three Women's Under-17 internationals in his squad for the two games as Zara Foley, Amy Boyle-Carr and Eabha O'Mahony were all included in the senior squad for the first time.

All three could make their senior international debuts this week and ahead of tomorrow's game, Kiernan has backed the youngsters in the squad and has praised the quality on show in training.

Kiernan added: "It's great to see the young ones coming up into the senior squad and getting the chance to impress. 

"The standard in training has been extremely good and they've really impressed. It really shows there is plenty of young talent coming through in Ireland and that is really good for the future.

"It will be a difficult game tomorrow as they were at the European Championships ahead of us but we need to be testing ourselves against the best to keep improving. 

"We've got two crucial games in April and these games will be really important for us to continue what has been an excellent qualifying campaign so far."

TEAM NEWS: Karen Duggan and Sophie Perry have both pulled out of the squad through injury and have been replaced by Ruesha Littlejohn and Claire O'Riordan. 

The WU19s are currently in Portugal where they will play three games in a week to help prepare for the UEFA Elite Round in Ireland in April 2018.

Ireland started the tournament today against the host nation and despite a bright start with a number of chances created, Portugal found themselves 2-0 up at the break due to two defensive errors. Cork City WFC striker Saoirse Noonan pulled one back for Ireland early in the second-half after she beat the keeper to Tiegan Ruddy's free-kick to finish. 

Ireland continued to press for the equaliser but the hosts added a third to seal the victory late on as Shelbourne Ladies defender Ruddy was shown red for two bookable offences which will rule her out of the game against England on Friday. 

Despite the defeat, WU19 Head Coach Dave Connell was impressed by the quality of the young players in the squad but hopes his side can cut out the mistakes in the next two games. 

Connell said: "We're disappointed. We started brightly but then found ourselves 2-0 down due to two defensive errors. 

"We had a few chances early doors to go in front but we couldn't take them and we were made to pay at the other end. We were chasing the game then but we got ourselves back into it and again, we've had a number of chances but couldn't take them.

"It's been good for us as we've been able to get the whole squad on the pitch and give everyone a run out. Alannah McEvoy came on for the second half and was very good, and some of the other young players were very bright.

"We've got to do a lot better against England on Friday. We're out of season domestically and Portugal are in the middle of theirs but this is why it is great preparation. We're fully focused on preparing for that Elite Round and we've got another two games this week, and I'm sure we'll do a lot better."

Republic of Ireland WU19 side v Portugal: Turner (GK) (McAloon 46), Craven, Farrelly, O'Callaghan (Doyle 46), Warner (Mackey 46), Kavanagh (Ruddy 46), Noonan (Trill 78), Fahey (Burdis 73), Reddy (Casey 46), Burke (McGovern 46), Mooney (McEvoy 46). 

Three second-half goals from Tom Mohan's side was enough for the win, but the Under-19s were lucky not to trail before the break.

The two best chances of the second-half fell to the ETB FAI Select XI. Goalkeeper Edward McGinty did well to save a point-blank shot from Andrew Farrell, before Dean Williams shot the rebound wide. Williams was unlucky again minutes later as he slid in at the back post, but was unable to put a foot to Brandon Payne's cross.

As both teams made numerous changes in the second-half, the Under-19 side found chances more plentiful with Jack O'Keefe scoring the first goal just after the break. In the final 15 minutes, Liam Walsh and Cian Murphy scored to secure the 3-0 win.

The only downside to the game was the injury to Republic of Ireland captain Neil Farugia. The midfielder was replaced before half-time with a shoulder injury.

Republic of Ireland Under-19 manager Tom Mohan was pleased with his side's performance of home-based players ahead of next month's friendlies with Romania in Spain.

"A lot of the players did very well. We were a little patchy in the first-half, but our performance improved in the second-half.

"We may not be able to call on all our players for the Romania games so it will give some of these players a chance. It was very beneficial to the team. Up until we got the second goal, it was a very competitive game.

"Our target now is the games against Romania, and hope to get a strong squad for those games. Today's game will help cement that squad."

Speaking after the game, ETB FAI Select XI manager Tommy Dunne was happy with his side's performance, especially in the first half.

"The first-half was a better reflection on the game I felt. We played everyone as we are trying to create a squad. It was very even in the opening period. I thought the players done very well.

"I thought the Under-19s played very well, but I thought we matched them for large periods."

Republic of Ireland Under-19s:  Edward McGinty; Luke Heaney, Luke McNally, James McSweeney, Jamie Hamilton; Cieren Dunne, Aodh Dervan, Jack Keaney, Neil Farugia; Sean McDonald, Jack O'Keefe.

Subs Used: Brian Maher, Paul Fox, Liam Walsh, Gavin Smith, Owen Wall, Cian Murphy.

ETB FAI Select XI: Eric Donnelly, Brandon Payne, Joe Manley, Jason Cross, Shay Doherty; Andrew Farrell, Nathan Coleman, Mark Birrane, Brian Cabraley; Cody Mulhall, Dean Williams.

Subs Used: James Tierney, Sean O'Driscoll, Jordan McGuire, Michael Cregan, Dylan O'Neill, Sean Traynor, Lorcan Byrne, Jamie Coyne, Mickey McCoy.

Dolores Silva's second-half penalty separated the two sides as the hosts claimed victory ahead of the second friendly on Sunday, January 21st.

Colin Bell handed Galway WFC defender Aislinn Meaney her senior international debut and also awarded Peamount United forward Heather Payne with her first start for the senior side after an impressive 2017 in the Continental Tyres Women's National League.

It was Payne who Ireland's only chance of the opening 45 minutes. Captain Katie McCabe found the industrious Amber Barrett on the right and after creating space, her low cross to the edge of the six-yard area was put narrowly over the bar by Payne. 

The hosts created very little in a quiet first-half but went ahead with 14 minutes gone after the break after Andreia Norton was brought down in the area by Tyler Toland. Captain Dolores Silva stepped up and found the right-hand corner, despite the best efforts of Marie Hourihan. 

Colin Bell brought on Leanne Kiernan, Ruesha Littelejohn and Claire O'Riordan but struggled to create any goal-scoring chances against a resolute Portuguese defence. Tatiana Pinto fired narrowly over the bar in the final minutes of the game as the hosts claim victory in the first of two international friendlies this week.

Republic of Ireland WNT Head Coach Colin Bell said: "We’re disappointed. I thought we were a bit flat tonight and didn’t perform to the levels I know we can perform to.

“It was a silly goal to give away as all we had to do was clear the ball but instead, we let them come back inside with it and we give away a penalty. If that doesn’t happen, there is no way we’re conceding a goal from open play so that’s really disappointing.

“We’ve got a lot of work to do in the rest of the week before Sunday’s second match. I want to see the levels improve and we’ll have to look at the starting line-up for that game. 

“Of course, we’re already missing five key players due to injuries, who would be in our first-team, so we’ve got a number of young players in the squad. We’ll have to check the fitness of the players and have a look in training before making a decision.”

Republic of Ireland: Hourihan (GK), Meaney (Kiernan 70), Caldwell, Quinn, Fahey, Scott, Toland (O'Riordan 87), O'Sullivan, McCabe (C), Payne, Barrett (Littlejohn 81).

Usher Celtic v Moyne Rangers

Dungarvan FC v Pike Rovers

Newfoundwell FC v Ayrfield United

St Michael's FC v Tolka Rovers

Newmarket Celtic v Grettan United

Shannon Town or Oliver Bond Celtic v Evergreen FC

Ferrybank FC v Mervue United

Killarney Celtic v Ballymun United or North End United

The application process will be open until February28 and it allows young coaches the opportunity to put their skills to the test on one of the most popular youth programmes in the country.

Please be aware that in order to coach on our camps you must be cleared by Garda Vetting with the FAI and have completed the Safeguarding 1 workshop. Further information and instructions on Garda Vetting can be found here

In 2017, over 37,000 children took part on camps all around the country. Beginners get to learn the fundamental football skills needed to be a player and receive a fun and dynamic introduction to playing the beautiful game.

More seasoned players will focus on more technical and skill-specific training and everyone will come together in the afternoon to participate in mini-leagues and small-sided games.

If you would like to apply to become a coach on the AVIVA FAI Soccer SistersEaster Camps and / or the SportsDirect.com FAI Summer Soccer Schools programme, you can apply here

Designed to educate, inform and engage the doctors and physiotherapists who work in the SSE Airtricity League, Continental Tyres Women's National League, and international football, the Workshop proved to be a great success with a large number of guests present.

This is the 11th year that the Workshop has been running as Dr. Alan Byrne and highly experienced physiotherapist Colin Dunlevy - who both work with the Ireland men's senior team - were instrumental in organising the worthwhile event.

There were a range of expert speakers, including FAI Head of Fitness Dan Horan, Cobh Ramblers' Dr. Louise O'Connell, Ireland Women's Under 17's Dr. Charlotte Skidmore, and IRFU Medical Director Rod McLoughlin.

Included on the agenda was an anti-doping update, information on a planned injury surveillance research project, a review of pitchside medical equipment, and a course on basic life support training, which is approved by UEFA and the Irish Heart Foundation.

Doyle also delivered a fascinating presentation, alongside Dr. Alan Byrne, on how he dealt with concussion, how it affected him, and how it ultimately ended his playing career early following knocks to the head whilst playing for Colorado Rapids in MLS.

The insights from a player, who scored 14 goals in 63 senior appearances for Ireland, provided the assembled group with plenty of food for thought as a discussion then started on recognising and treating concussion.

Supported by the FAI Board and the FAI Medical Committee, the Workshop addressed many key issues and provided each attendee with a better understanding of the various topics that were discussed.

Colin Bell's Ireland side suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat in the first friendly on Thursday as captain Dolores Silva netted a second-half penalty. 

Ireland had few chances in the game as they look to use the week as crucial preparation for the upcoming FIFA 2019 World Cup qualifiers against Slovakia and the Netherlands at Tallaght Stadium in April.

Fahey, who moved from Chelsea to Bordeaux last year, has been a crucial member of Colin Bell's starting XI during the qualifying campaign and she believes every game and training session is important preparation for the April qualifiers.

Fahey said: "We were obviously really disappointed with our performance the other night. We didn't really give them many chances so to lose the game was difficult to take.

"We took a lot from the defeat though and we've analysed the game, and we'll be looking to bring that into tomorrow's game. Portugal are obviously a really good side and now we know what levels we need to be at to get the result we need.

"The standard has been excellent in training this week and it's a really important week for us to work on our tactics ahead of those April qualifiers. We've got the trip to Fota Island in February as well but every training session is crucial in working towards those fixtures."

Stephanie Roche, Aine O'Gorman, Megan Campbell, Sophie Perry and Karen Duggan have all missed the trip to the Azores due to injury which has seen a number of young players called up to the squad. 

Fahey has praised the quality of the young players and says the group are determined to get a positive result in the second international friendly to round off an important week. 

She added: "The young players have done extremely well. Obviously, we're a bit short at the moment with the amount of injuries we've had but the girls have stepped up from the Women's Under-17s and they've fitted in brilliantly.

"It can be a really difficult step up to make so credit must go to them. It's been a great week really. Of course, it is a bit warmer than home so a bit of warm weather training is always really good for the fitness at this time of year. 

"We know what we need to do tomorrow and we'll be determined to get a positive result to round off another good week. It would give us a real lift and I'm looking forward to it."

TEAM NEWS: Colin Bell has a fully-fit squad to choose from for the second international friendly against Portugal. 

Cork City WFC striker Saoirse Noonan scored Ireland's only goal of the game in the 3-1 defeat in Portugal with Ireland set to play their final game of the three-game tournament on Sunday against the host nation. 

Ireland are playing top quality opposition in the mini-tournament to help prepare for the UEFA Elite Round in April 2018 which will be hosted by Ireland. Dave Connell's side will face Spain, Austria and Turkey in a bid to qualify for the summer's finals in Switzerland.

Despite the defeat, WU19 Head Coach Dave Connell has praised the players for a much-improved performance from their defeat against Portugal on Wednesday. 

Connell said: "We're much happier than we were on Wednesday. It was a really good performance from the players and we've been beaten by three great strikes from the English. We're probably a little bit disappointed we didn't close them down from the edge of the box but we were much better.

"We improved in every department. Obviously, we're disappointed with the result but Saoirse scored a great goal, great run to the back-post and finish. 

"As a group, we were much better and it was great the young kids do really well again. Megan Mackey, Alannah McEvoy and Doireann Fahey all did very well and their progression will be extremely important as we head towards that Elite Round stage.

"We made a few late substitutions in this game so there wasn't too much changing during the game. Looking ahead to the third game, the other players will get a chance to play as it's really important everyone gets that exposure on the pitch. They had a 3-1 win over Switzerland today so they're a good side and we'll know what to expect."

Republic of Ireland: McAloon (GK), Doyle, Craven, Farrelly, O'Callaghan (Casey 77), Kavanagh, Mackey (Mooney 77), Noonan, Fahey (Warner 65), Reddy (Burke 70), McEvoy (Trill 77).

Goals from captain Katie McCabe, Leanne Kiernan and Louise Quinn secured the victory against the hosts, who qualified for the European Championships in the summer, with Diana Silva’s strike a late reply.

Ireland suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat in the first international friendly between the two sides on Thursday and Head Coach Colin Bell made two changes from the defeat. Ruesha Littlejohn started her first game since September 2016 and she was partnered up front by Shelbourne striker Leanne Kiernan.

The latter was heavily involved for Ireland’s opener just past the half-hour.  Peamount winger Heather Payne latched onto a loose ball on the half-way line and put Kiernan through down the right, and it was her brilliant cross which found McCabe to head home.

Three minutes after the break, Kiernan had a deserved goal of her own. Niamh Fahey played a long ball forward and the Cavan-native used her blistering pace to beat the defender to the ball and fire home over the keeper.

Ireland continued to dominate the game with a McCabe long-range effort just tipped over in the 50th minute before Arsenal defender Quinn added a third and secured the victory.

The quick-thinking McCabe collected a short left-sided corner and found a pin-point cross for Quinn to rise highest and head home off the post. Diana Silva scored a consulation for the hosts with 10 minutes remaining as Ireland get the perfect result to round off the two-game week in the Azores.

Republic of Ireland WNT Head Coach Colin Bell said: “It was a deserved victory. We were much better today. I thought we were very sluggish on Thursday, maybe the long journey had an effect but that was much improved.

“We made a couple of changes and put two up front, and I think we created plenty of problems for Portugal. They’re a very good side but as soon as we scored the first goal, we were in control of the game and got the result.

“They were fantastic goals and I’m delighted for Leanne Kiernan who performed to the levels we know she’s capable of today. She’s trained really well over the past two days and got a deserved goal, I’m delighted for her.

“They were plenty of great performances and it’s been another important week as we continue to prepare for the qualifiers in April. This is a great result to keep that momentum going and we can take plenty of confidence from this.”

Republic of Ireland: Hourihan (GK), Payne, Caldwell, Quinn, Fahey, Scott, Toland, O'Sullivan, McCabe (C), Littlejohn (McLoughlin 81), Kiernan (Atkinson 90).

What is the background to the UEFA Nations League?

The rejuvenation of national team football – and the UEFA Nations League – stems from the desire of UEFA and its 55 member associations to improve the quality and standing of national team football. UEFA and its associations wanted more sporting meaning in national team football, with associations, coaches, players and supporters increasingly of the opinion that friendly matches are not providing adequate competition for national teams.

Extensive consultation and discussions started as far back as the 2011 UEFA Strategy Meeting in Cyprus and continued at a series of Top Executive Programme (TEP) meetings over the following three years. The UEFA Nations League was unanimously adopted at the XXXVIII Ordinary UEFA Congress in Astana on 27 March 2014.

What is the basic format?

• The format of the UEFA Nations League will feature promotion and relegation. The 55 European national teams have been divided into four leagues in accordance with UEFA's national association coefficient rankings on 11 October 2017.
• The League Phase draw is on 24 January in Lausanne and the pots are confirmed.
• League A includes the top-ranked sides and League D includes the lowest:

League A

Pot 1: Germany, Portugal, Belgium, Spain
Pot 2: France, England, Switzerland, Italy
Pot 3: Poland, Iceland, Croatia, Netherlands

• Teams will be split into four groups of three, with the group winners then contesting the UEFA Nations League Finals (semi-finals, third-place match and final) in June 2019 to become the UEFA Nations League winners. One host country will be appointed in December 2018 from among the finalist teams.
• The four teams that finish bottom of their groups will be relegated to League B for the 2020 edition.
• The top four ranked teams that do not qualify for UEFA EURO 2020 will enter a play-off in March 2020, with one finals place on offer.

League B

Pot 1: Austria, Wales, Russia, Slovakia
Pot 2: Sweden, Ukraine, Republic of Ireland, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Pot 3: Northern Ireland, Denmark, Czech Republic, Turkey

• Teams will be split into four groups of three.
• Due to a decision of the UEFA Executive Committee, Russia and Ukraine cannot be draw in the same group.
• The four group winners are promoted to League A, with the four sides that finish bottom relegated to League C for the next competition to be played in 2020.
• The top four ranked teams that do not qualify for UEFA EURO 2020 will enter a play-off in March 2020, with one finals place on offer

League C

Pot 1: Hungary, Romania, Scotland, Slovenia
Pot 2: Greece, Serbia, Albania, Norway
Pot 3: Montenegro, Israel, Bulgaria, Finland
Pot 4: Cyprus, Estonia, Lithuania

• Teams will be split into one group of three (containing teams from Pots 1, 2 and 3 only) and three groups of four.
• Due to winter venue restrictions, a group can contain a maximum of two of these teams: Norway, Finland, Estonia, Lithuania.
• The four group winners are promoted to League B, with the four sides that finish bottom relegated to League D for the 2020 edition.
• The top four ranked teams that do not qualify for UEFA EURO 2020 will enter a play-off in March 2020, with one finals place on offer.

League D

Pot 1: Azerbaijan, FYR Macedonia, Belarus, Georgia
Pot 2: Armenia, Latvia, Faroe Islands, Luxembourg
Pot 3: Kazakhstan, Moldova, Liechtenstein, Malta
Pot 4: Andorra, Kosovo, San Marino, Gibraltar

• Teams will be split into four groups of four.
• Due to a decision of the UEFA Executive Committee, Armenia and Azerbaijan cannot be draw in the same group.
• Due to excessive travel restrictions, any group can contain a maximum of one of these pairs: Andorra & Kazakhstan, Faroe Islands & Kazakhstan, Gibraltar & Kazakhstan, Gibraltar & Azerbaijan
• The four group winners are promoted to League C for the 2020 edition.
• The top four ranked teams that do not qualify for UEFA EURO 2020 will enter a play-off in March 2020, with one finals place on offer.
• Leagues A and B will consist of four groups of three teams
• League C will comprise one group of three teams and three groups of four sides
• League D will be formed by four groups of four teams
• The League Phase Draw for the UEFA Nations League will take place at the SwissTech Convention Centre in Lausanne on 24 January 2018.
• In each league, four group winners are promoted (or play in the Finals, see below) and four teams are relegated for the next competition to be played in 2020.
• The overall UEFA Nations League rankings will determine the composition of the draw pots for the subsequent European Qualifiers.
• In addition, the UEFA Nations League will provide teams with another chance to qualify for the UEFA EURO final tournament, with four sides qualifying through play-off matches which take place in March 2020 (see below).

When will the UEFA Nations League take place?

The UEFA Nations League will take place as follows:

• The UEFA Nations League group games will be held over six matchdays, during the 'double-headers' in September, October and November 2018. The UEFA Nations League Finals competition for the teams that win the four groups within the top division is scheduled for June 2019.
• For the UEFA Nations League Finals, the group winners of UEFA Nations League A will play in a knockout format (semi-finals, third-place match and final) in June 2019 to become the UEFA Nations League winners. One host country will be appointed by the UEFA Executive Committee in December 2018 from among the finalist teams.
• The play-off matches will be staged in March 2020 (see below).

Will qualifying for the UEFA EURO change?

 The changes to UEFA EURO qualifying will make it more streamlined. The equation is now simple: ten groups with the top two teams in each group qualifying automatically, and the other four places being awarded to European Qualifiers play-off winners, in which the 16 group winners of the UEFA Nations League will be in contention.

The UEFA EURO 2020 qualifying draw will be made after the completion of the UEFA Nations League and allow for the four UEFA Nations League Finals participants to be drawn into groups of five teams.

But the key principle of the qualifiers remains: that every team can play every team.

The European Qualifiers for UEFA EURO 2020 commence in March 2019. There will be two matchdays in each of March, June, September, October and November 2019. In total, there will be five groups of five teams and five groups of six teams (ten groups in all) playing over ten matchdays (the same number as now). The winner and runner-up in each of the ten groups will qualify automatically for the UEFA EURO 2020 final tournament (June 2020).

• The last four EURO places will be won through the European Qualifiers play-offs, which will take place in March 2020 and which will be contested by the 16 UEFA Nations League group winners.
• If a group winner has already qualified via the European Qualifiers, then their spot will go to the next best-ranked team in their league. If a league does not have four teams to compete, the remaining slots are allocated to teams from another league, according to the overall UEFA Nations League ranking.  
• Each league will have a path of its own and each path will feature two single-leg semi-finals and one single-leg final. The winner of each path will win a ticket to UEFA EURO 2020.

How are the overall UEFA Nations League rankings calculated?

Within each league (A, B, C and D), the overall ranking will be calculated based on position in the group then points, goal difference, goals scored, away goals scored, wins, away wins, disciplinary points, coefficient ranking.

What are the advantages for national associations and teams?

National associations and coaches, in consultations with UEFA, revealed that they feel that friendly internationals are not providing adequate sporting competition. The UEFA Nations League creates more meaningful and competitive matches for teams and a dedicated calendar and structure for national team football.

Top teams can also aspire to take part in the UEFA Nations League Finals, a new top-level event.

For middle-ranking and smaller nations, the UEFA Nations League will offer an extra way to qualify for UEFA EURO final tournaments. Lower-tier countries – the bottom 16 in the rankings – are now guaranteed one of the 24 qualifying slots for UEFA EURO.

Lower-ranking teams who have struggled against sides ranked considerably higher than them will now get the chance to take part in balanced matches. Teams do not learn and progress by repeatedly losing; now some sides will start winning.

While the UEFA Nations League will replace most friendly internationals, there will still be space in the calendar for friendlies, especially for top teams who may want to face opposition from outside Europe as they will be in groups of three teams.

Associations and teams benefit from clarity of the fixture calendar, and there is now a clear buffer between the end of the UEFA EURO and FIFA World Cup, and vice versa, as well as stability of income.

What are the advantages for supporters?

Supporters more than most realise that most friendlies fail to deliver competitive and meaningful football. Now they will have the opportunity to see their teams play in more competitive matches, take part in a new competition and get a second chance to qualify for the major tournaments.

In every even year there are World Cup or UEFA EURO champions; now in every odd year there will be a UEFA Nations League winners. Football is about competition and now, just like in club football, there will be a national team champion at the close of every season.

Will this mean more demands on players and clubs?

No: the UEFA Nations League and European Qualifiers will adhere to the existing agreed international match calendar. UEFA is always keen to preserve the balance between club and international football. The new competition should, in fact, reduce demands on players and clubs with less travel envisaged for friendly games while national teams will be playing more consistently at their own level. With double-header matchweeks, players will even go back to their clubs earlier than is currently the case.

Is this just about generating more revenue?

No, finances are not a driver for the new competition. However, the competition will have the same centralised media rights as have recently been introduced for all European Qualifiers so associations will have even more stability in their income.

Will there be no more friendly internationals?

There will certainly be fewer friendly internationals and undoubtedly fewer meaningless friendlies. However, there will still be space in the calendar for friendly internationals – particularly warm-up matches for final tournaments. UEFA is also keen that European teams will still have the chance to play opponents from other confederations.

Fresh from WNT duty in Portugal, the Donegal native was unstoppable at times as she scooped the Player of the Tournament award after 4 goals and 4 assists from three games.

In their opening game against South-East rivals Waterford IT, it was McLaughlin that opened the scoring before teeing up Lauren Dwyer and Rachel Graham to extend the lead to 3-0. Further goals from Megan Lynch and a penalty from Amanda Budden made the final score 5-0 and three points on the board.

In their second tie against Maynooth University, their CUFL Women’s Premier Division Semi-Final opponents next month, they produced the same result with five more goals added to Carlow’s tally with McLaughlin (2), Graham, Dwyer and Kane the providers.

In their final game against IT Sligo, McLaughlin opened the scoring again before turning creator for Graham and Lynch, with Lynch adding the finishing touches to the 4-2 win with an excellent individual effort.

Speaking after the celebrations, IT Carlow captain Rachel Graham noted how difficult it has been to claim the achievement with the growing competitiveness in Women’s Third Level Futsal. “There’s more Women’s National League players in Third Level now. Our IT Carlow team is probably the best it has ever been with a couple of senior international players, but the games are still tight and tough to win.”

IT Carlow Head Coach Darren McGarry was hoping this was the beginning of better things to come for his talented side. “Well I think that the treble (League, Kelly Cup and Futsal Cup) is our aim. Obviously, we are the team to beat and everyone wants to beat IT Carlow. It is going to be difficult but that’s the goals the girls have set, and we can only aim to win everything.”

Waterford IT would regain their composure throughout the day as they claimed victories against IT Sligo and Maynooth.

In the Plate, DCU would make it three of their own in the Plate competition as they swept aside their group in a goal-filled display. Heavy victories against UCD, Limerick IT and GMIT Galway meant that the Plate will be spending another year in Glasnevin with Aisling Frawley and Aoibhin Webb the main protagonists on the day.

IT Carlow: Amanda Budden, Amanda McQuillan, Chloe Moloney, Lauren Dwyer, Orlaith Conlon, Roma McLaughlin, Rachel Graham, Megan Lynch, Becky Cassin, Bronagh Kane, Amy Walsh, Niamh Kelly.

DCU: Alice Linehan, Aisling Frawley, Lynn Craven, Emma Boyle, Aoibhin Webb, Ailbhe Clancy.

RUSTLERS CUFL Women’s Futsal Cup Finals Results

IT Carlow 5-0 Waterford IT
IT Sligo 5-2 Maynooth University
Waterford IT 3-2 IT Sligo
IT Carlow 5-0 Maynooth University
IT Sligo 2-4 IT Carlow
Maynooth University 3-6 Waterford IT

RUSTLERS CUFL Women’s Futsal Plate Finals Results

UCD 4-9 DCU
Limerick IT 0-2 GMIT Galway
DCU 8-2 Limerick IT
UCD 6-1 GMIT Galway
UCD 8-3 Limerick IT
DCU 6-2 GMIT Galway

Following the UEFA Nations League draw in Nyon, Switzerland earlier today, Martin O'Neill's side were drawn against Wales and Denmark.

The fixture dates and kick-off times have now been confirmed with the full Republic of Ireland fixture schedule below.

06/09/2018 - Wales v Republic of Ireland, 19:45
13/10/2018 - Republic of Ireland v Denmark, 19:45
16/10/2018 - Republic of Ireland v Wales, 19:45
19/11/2018 - Denmark v Republic of Ireland, 19.45

Also, the FAI can confirm that 2017/18 FAI Season Ticket holders will receive an update on their package in the coming weeks, while the new Season Ticket package will be unveiled in due course.

Tickets details for the UEFA Nations League matches will be announced in due course.

After narrow victories over UCC and IT Carlow, the Dubliners faced a city derby in their final game against National College of Ireland who had their own aspirations of success. Needing a minimum of a draw, DIT would find themselves trailing by a goal with minutes remaining after leading by two goals. Adam Harney came to the rescue and found an equaliser with six seconds remaining to declare his side champions.

The success will see Dublin IT and runners-up IT Carlow enter the semi-finals of the FAI Futsal Cup.

After coming through a tough Dublin qualifier, DIT entered the finals as the only side that have never lifted the trophy before. They began their quest for glory against 2012 champions UCC. A double from Player of the Tournament Jordi Ebanda and a strike from Harney earned an opening three points.

A hat trick from Evander Chatara dealt a hammer blow to two-time champions IT Carlow as the 3-2 victory put the Dublin side in pole position to take the trophy against 2014 champions National College of Ireland in their final game.

Ebanda would put DIT 2-0 up early on and they looked comfortable to hold on to the advantage. However, NCI fought back with a brace from Robert McKenna and Keith Mahoney to take the lead before Harney rescued DIT.

IT Carlow would regroup following their disappointment of missing out on a Men’s and Women’s double after their Women’s team’s success the day previously to take the runners-up spot with a 5-3 victory over UCC.

Dublin IT: Moreno Milenkovic, Jamie Broderick, Adam Harney, Jordi Ebanda, Evander Chatara, Cathal Murphy, Daire Dunne, Mohammed Kadiri

RUSTLERS CUFL Men’s Futsal National Cup

IT Carlow 4-1 National College of Ireland
Dublin IT 3-2 University College Cork
IT Carlow 2-3 Dublin IT
National College of Ireland 7-4 University College Cork
National College of Ireland 3-3 Dublin IT
IT Carlow 5-3 University College Cork

A Jack O'Connor goal for DCU that came two minutes from the finish proved the differences between the sides in a rain and hail lashed tie against NUI Galway at Mervue United All Weather.

Maynooth University recorded a deserved 2-1 win at University of Limerick.

Dylan Kavanagh had them in front just on half time with the opener that came with the aid of a deflection and when a Darragh Gibbons second half header stretched the lead the visitors looked safely through to the quarter finals.

A late own goal from Cillian Duffy did give UL some hope but it was too little too late.

Hot favourites Trinity College made no mistakes hammering four goals past Royal College of Surgeons in a one sided affair at Clontarf Road.

Niall Carruthers grabbed two while Ronan Hanaphy plus an own goal completed the total.

Fionn Flynn's well struck penalty late on was some consolation for the Surgeons.

Quarter Finals draw

UCC v Mary Immaculate College Limerick

Ulster University v DCU

Queens University Belfast v Trinity College Dublin

Maynooth University v UCD.

All games on Monday February 5 at Queens University Belfast Sports Campus.