The Republic of Ireland Under-17 side lost 4-2 on penalties to Japan in the third placed play-off of the Toyota International Youth Tournament in Japan this morning. Ireland came from behind twice during the match to draw 2-2 but suffered cruel luck in penalties as they missed their final two spot kicks to finish fourth in the tournament. To rub salt into the wounds, Korea, who beat Ireland courtesy of a dubious penalty in the final group game, won the tournament overall beating Holland 3-2 in the final.
After falling behind, Ireland drew level through a wonderful James Ryan strike after a dangerous run by Keith Treacy had created space for the winger to finish. And, after Japan had gone in front again, Ireland drew level once more when giant centre half Eddie Nolan headed home his third goal in as many games in the tournament.
Manager Sean McCaffrey said: "We played very well and I am delighted with the performance. We didn't deserve to lose any of the games. It's been good preparation for the Europeans when we will face Iceland, Germany and Lithuania."
Ireland have one more game to end their Japanese tour as they face a Gifu High School selection in a friendly on Tuesday.
Team: Henderson (Aston Villa), Madden (Leeds United), Nolan (Blackburn Rovers), Power (Crumlin United), Quigley (Stoke City), Ryan (Liverpool), Bayly (Leeds United), Garvan (Ipswich Town), Moore (Manchester City),Treacy (Blackburn Rovers), Kiely (Cherry Orchard).
Substitutes: Judge (St Joseph's Boys) for Moore, Connellan (St Francis Athlone) for Bayly (both half time), Gleeson (Wolverhampton Wanderers) for Garvan (50 mins), McKeever (Cherry Orchard) for Gleeson (65 mins), Boyle (Aston Villa) for Henderson (70 mins), Purcell (Belvedere) for Kiely (70 mins).
Filed by Mark O'Neill-Cummins
