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12.04.2006 at 15:00
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Attendance: |
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Netherlands |
2 - 0
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Womens International Under 17 |
Republic of Ireland Women’s U-17 0-2 Holland Women's U-17
The Republic of Ireland Women’s Under 17 side, weakened by the absence of three key players and the difficult task of playing two international matches in 24 hours, took to Gloucester City’s pitch and matched a fresh Dutch performance for the first 40 minutes. Dutch keeper Eline Roet was tested when she was forced to tip over the bar a blistering long range shot from Rebecca Creagh in the 20th minute. Despite great heart and effort, and near misses from Rebecca Creagh and Christina Byrne, the first half ended scoreless.
In the 53rd minute of the second half Holland’s Roos Kwakkenbos slotted the ball past Ireland keeper Michelle Byrne from a free kick to put the Dutch one ahead. Ireland tried to lift the game, with a gallant performance from Catriona McGilp at right full and from Rebecca Creagh in midfield. Just when Ireland looked set to get the upper hand and regain control of the game, nearly forcing an equaliser when there was a mix-up between the Dutch sweeper and keeper, the Dutch broke and Chantal DeRidder hammered home to make the score 2-0 in the 70th minute.
Ireland battled bravely for the final ten minutes of the game, putting severe pressure on a tired Dutch defence, but failed to find the back of the net.
Manager Marie Price Bolger expressesd disappointment at the result, but praised her squad for a good performance under difficult circumstances.
Ireland now look forward to regaining top form for the final game of the tournament on Friday. The opposition will depend on results of today’s games, when the USA play a strong Scotland side, and England meet Holland.
Republic of Ireland
Michelle Byrne
Rebecca Creagh
Christina Byrne
Jennifer Critchley
Niamh Mulcahy
Lynn Marie Grant
Noelle Murray
Paula Murray
Catriona McGilp
Rebekah Penco
Rachel Graham
Substitutes
Anna Mullan on for Jennifer Critchley (54 min)
Stephanie Roche on for Paula Murray (60 min)
Elaine Murray on for Niamh Mulcahy (70 min) |
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