Rep of Ireland U16 2 - 0 Maccabi Haifa U16

The Republic of Ireland have reached the final of the 1997 Elite Boys Cup at the UMBRO Galway Cup after an impressive 2-0 victory over Maccabi Haifi of Isreal earlier.

Dan Casey and Jesse Devers were the goalscoring heroes for the Irish and the result leaves them awaiting the winners of the other semi between St. Kevin's Boys and Dynamo Moscow in tomorrow's showpiece.

Casey's early goal, after only 5 minutes, gave the Irish a platform to build upon. A corner whipped in from the left caused a monumental scramble in the Haifa penalty area. and the ball fell to the defender, whose finish was one any forward would be proud of.

The Isrealis were stunned by the early goal, but not for long and began to play themselves into the tie. Amit Zenati showed some excellent touches and was a clear and present danger throughout.

Stanislav Stepin had a good effort saved by James Talbot between the Irish sticks before a mistake at the other end gave Cemal Ramadan a chance which he couldn't convert.

Ireland dominated the reminder of the half.

Haifa's plight was worsened even further after half time, as Ireland emerged from the dugout with clear confidence - confidence that was converted into early chances.

Ramadan was tormenting the right back, beating him twice early on and getting balls into the area. No goals were forthcoming, however.

The pressure was growing and a second goal inevitable. When it did come, the origin was that left wing. This time Sean Byrne was the provider, picking out Jesse Devers who was given plenty of time to pick his spot in the corner.

From there on, Maccabi never looked like getting back into it and indeed it was Ireland who had a multitude of further chances, through Casey and Ramadan among others.

In the end, the win was comfortable as it was deserved.