The Republic of Ireland suffered their second defeat in the Umbro Quadrangular Trophy going down 2-1 to Northern Ireland in their final game. The win for Northern Ireland saw them lift the trophy as hosts Scotland could only manage a 2-1 win over the Isle of Man.
It was Northern Ireland’s first win over the Republic of Ireland in a competitive game and over the ninety minutes Northern Ireland just shaded it having taken a two nil lead before Shane Clarke pulled one back with fifteen minutes to go, which saw Northern Ireland hang on after some close scares.
Shane Clarke from Janesboro FC was voted the Republic's Player of the Tournament having scored twice and leading the line up front in what were three very physical games.
Manager Gerry Davies will have much to ponder on before his next International Fixtures come around but there were some positives from last weeks Tournament with some solid performances from Sheriff duo Paul Murphy and Anto Kavanagh, while Jack Doherty of Carrick showed some deft touches as did Stephen Donnelly and Jordan Buckley.
The Isle of Man will host the 2019 Tournament and you can be sure Gerry Davies will be hopping that fortunes will change for his Junior players.
Team: Adrian Walsh, Chris Higgins, Niall Andrews, Anto Kavanagh, Paul Murphy, Jordan Buckley, Kieran Mc Daid, Jack Doherty, James Mc Grath, Stephen Donnelly, Shane Clarke.
Subs used. Jimmy Carr, David Joyce, Eoin Hayes.