The Republic of Ireland Women’s Under 19 side began their preparations for the UEFA Championship Elite Phase this evening with a 1-1 draw with Holland. Sue Ronans’ side started extremely strong forcing the Dutch side to defend for large periods of the first 30 minutes. Irelands’ first real chance came after only ten minutes when Dundalk defender, Grace Murray was given a free header from an in-swinging corner, unfortunately her effort was straight at the Netherlands keeper who gratefully clutched the ball to her chest.
The Irish were causing severe problems for the Dutch defence throughout the first half with Aine O’Gorman and Sarah McGrath threatening defenders with their lightening pace but unfortunately failed to create any clear cut chances.
Holland grew in confidence at the start of the second half and they were gifted the opening goal after 62 minutes when Irish goalkeeper, Lynn Dowling was caught in possession in her own penalty area and paid the ultimate price when the Dutch capitalised and poked the ball home from close range.
The Republic of Ireland, though stunned, regrouped straight from the kick-off and were given a fresh impetus with the introduction of substitutes, Niamh Fahey and Paula Murray. The Irish were back in the game after 80 minutes when Paula Murray’s free kick at the edge of the box was parried by the Dutch keeper. Niamh Fahey was on hand to slot the rebound in from close range.
With ten minutes remaining, The Republic of Ireland piled on the pressure but failed to capitalise on the score sheet. Sue Ronan said after the game, “Our side showed some great character against a strong Holland side this evening. For large parts of the game, the opposition were reduced to playing long balls over the top and feeding off our own defensive mistakes. We play them again on Thursday and I am looking forward to see our girls regroup and hopefully get a win”
The Republic of Ireland will face Holland in the A.U.L complex on Thursday 6th April, 11.00 am.
Republic of Ireland Starting Line-up Lynn Dowling Seana Cooke (c) Eilis Nevin Lisa Toohey Grace Murray Diane Caldwell Tara McMahon Nicky Sinnott Meabh De Burca Sarah McGrath Aine O’Gorman
Subs Used
Niamh Fahey on for Seana Cooke (45 Mins) Paula Murray on for Nicky Sinnott (45 Mins) Emma Hayes on for Diane Caldwell (80 Mins) Susan Donovan on for Aine O’Gorman (85 Mins) Noelle Murray on for Sarah McGrath (85 Mins) |