Ireland defeat Iceland in Nordic Cup
Iceland 0 — 2 Ireland
Terry Dixon 71 mins
Karl Byrne pen 80
The Republic of Ireland Under 17 side clinched a narrow victory in the Nordic Championship over the tournament hosts, Iceland, to add to their win over Norway on the opening day.
Ireland now face a big match against a fancied Denmark on Friday and if they can win then they will advance to play England or Sweden in the final of the tournament.
Iceland, who were beaten comprehensively 4-0 in their opening game against rivals Denmark, proved to be stubborn opponents for the Irish.
After a scoreless first half, Sean McCaffrey’s side pushed for the opener and were rewarded after 71 minutes when Terry Dixon was on hand to provide the finish. In the 80th minute, a penalty was awarded to Ireland which was converted by Karl Byrne.
Manager Sean McCaffrey handed a full International debut to Conor Murphy of the South Central Premier, Connecticut, USA. Also making their full debuts were Michael Daly and Corie Treacy.
The Republic of Ireland will play Denmark at the Kapavogsvoller Stadium on Friday. Battling to come through the other side of the draw are England and Sweden.
Republic of Ireland Starting Line-up
Shane Redmond Nottingham Forest: Lorcan Fitzgerald (Capt) West Ham United, Gavin Donoghue, Sunderland, Christopher Day MK Dons, Karl Byrne Belvedere, Michael Daly Cherry Orchard, Conor Murphy SCCPC, Mark O’ Toole Tottenham Hotspur, Stephen Lawless Cherry Orchard, Corie Treacy, Cherry Orchard, Tom Lyons Crystal Palace.
Subs
Garry Breen (Manchester City) for Murphy 45, Donal McDermott (Manchester City) for Day 45 Mins
Terry Dixon (Tottenham Hotspur) for Lyons 60, Killian Sheridan (Belvedere) for Byrne 81. |