Irish U19s start with a win over Italy
Credit:
Republic of Ireland 1 - 0 Italy
The Republic of Ireland Women’s U19 team kicked off their UEFA European Championship Second Qualifying Round with a convincing 1-0 win over group 1 opponents Italy on Thursday in Sportpark Tanthof – Zuid, Netherlands.
Both sides were evenly matched in the first half, with Rianna Jarrett finding the net for Ireland just before the interval. Ireland then dominated in the second half, creating many chances, and were unlucky not to extend their lead before the full time whistle. Jarrett was at the helm of many of Ireland’s attempts on goal, ably assisted by captain Denise O’Sullivan, who also shone for Ireland this afternoon. Centre backs Chloe Mustaki and Ciara O’Connell also put in strong performances in front of goalkeeper Jillian Maloney.
Speaking after the game, head coach Dave Connell praised his side saying, ‘This was definitely a well deserved win for us today. It was a great result, and really puts us into the mix ahead of our next game on Saturday against the Netherlands. It was a great team effort, and the girls really stepped up to the mark.’
When asked about Ireland’s next fixture on Saturday Connell said, ‘Our game against the Netherlands on Saturday will be a great opportunity for us to pick up points. The hosts will be tough to beat, especially with a large crowd behind them, but the girls are up for the challenge and spirits are high in camp. We’re looking forward to the game.’
There are no serious injury worries facing Ireland ahead of their next fixture on Saturday. However Rianna Jarrett will be reviewed later today after picking up a knock during the game. Denise O’Sullivan’s niggling back injury will also be examined along with Katie McCabe who was substituted during the second half due to tightness in her calf.
Ireland now stand at the top of the Group 1 table with holders Sweden ahead of their second fixture on Saturday (April 6) at 17.30 hrs (local time) in Sportpark Tanthof – Zuid.
Republic Of Ireland: Maloney (GK), Wright, Murphy, Mustaki, O'Connell, Hansberry, Rowe, O'Sullivan (C), Shine, Jarrett, McCabe (McGuinness ‘84)
Italy: Aliquo (GK), Casadio, Cannone, Linari(C), Piacezzi, Eusebio, Ciccotti, Brayda (Ferrati ‘45), Pugnali, Giacinti, Zecca (Montecucco ’45)
Referee: Sandra Bastos (POR)
