European Qualifier
17.09.2011 at 18:00 - Newport
The Republic of Ireland Women's senior team officially kick-off their UEFA EURO 2013 campaign against Wales at the Newport County Stadium tomorrow (Saturday).
The game will mark a new era for Irish women's football as Irish Head Coach, Sue Ronan takes charge in her first full campaign after taking over the reins from Noel King for the tail-end of the previous World Cup qualifying campaign.
Ronan boasts a fully fit squad ahead of the tie in Newport which includes Wilton United striker, Denise O'Sullivan, who recovers from injury after missing Ireland's international friendly against Switzerland last month.
Despite their opponents being ranked 47th in the FIFA World Rankings, Irish captain, Ciara Grant has warned against any complacency in the Irish side ahead of an intriguing tie.
Speaking on Friday, the Arsenal star said, "From a neutral perspective, many will list Ireland as the favourites for this game. However, Wales are the home team and they will expect the three points from this game.
"Under their new manager, Matikainen from Finland, they are more organised and confident as we have seen from their recent results. The Irish girls playing in the English league will be familiar with many of their players and we are expecting a tough tie.
"While Wales may be under a period of transition under their new manager, I believe that we are going through something similar under our new manager, Sue Ronan.
"Sue's appointment has been brilliant for the squad. She is a former international player and she knows what is needed at this level in big European games. All of the girls in the squad are eager to listen and learn from her experience and I think that will make a huge difference on the pitch in these important qualifiers."
EURO 2013 Women's EURO 2013 qualifier
Wales v Republic of Ireland
Saturday, September 17, 2011
Newport County Stadium
Kick-off: 6pm
Republic of Ireland squad:
Emma Byrne - Arsenal
Eve Badana - Drexel College/Philadelphia
Yvonne Treacy - Arsenal
Grace Murray - Peamount United
Diane Caldwell - Thor/KA FC
Megan Campbell - Raheny United FC
Louise Quinn - Peamount United
Ciara Grant - Arsenal
Niamh Fahey - Arsenal
Marie Curtin - Kilmallock FC
Shannon McDonnell - Chicago Red Stars
Denise O'Sullivan - Wilton United
Meabh De Burca - Boston Aztec FC
Fiona O'Sullivan - Pitea IF
Stephanie Roche - Peamount United
Julie-Ann Russell - Peamount United
Shannon Smyth - Amazon Grimstad FK
Mary Waldron - St. Catherine's FC
Karen Duggan - Peamount United
Áine O'Gorman - Doncaster Belles FC
Sonya Hughes - Glebe North FC.
|
