Ireland's U-19s recorded a famous 2-1 victory over Norway in Tallinn today to become the first team at that level to qualify for the next stage of the 2005/2006 UEFA Championships.
Ireland got off to a flying start with a goal in the 3rd minute courtesy of a superb finish by captain Sarah Lawlor, after she was put through by Susan Donovan.
This gave the Irish confidence and while Norway put together some good attacks, these were dealt with comfortably by a solid Irish defence, which was well marshalled by Eilish Nevin.
The Irish increased their lead through Susan Donovan in the 29th minute who superbly chipped the keeper from an acute angle.
Norway changed their formation in the second half and played with four players up front.
This caught the Irish team by surprise and they pulled a goal back in the 46th minute with a scrappy goal by Thornes.
However, Ireland then regrouped and indeed looked the dangerous team for the rest of the half, with good chances falling to both Donovan and Sarah McGrath.
Team: Lynn Dowling, Seana Cooke, Eilis Nevin, Lisa Toohey, Grace Murray, Diane Caldwell, Meabh DeBurca, Sara McGrath, Nicola Sinnott, Sarah Lawlor (Captain), Susan Donovan.
Subs: Sinead Tucker for Lawlor (56mins), Aoife Herbert for Cooke (83mins), Aine Genocky Stephanie Roche, Aine O’Gorman for McGrath (88mins), Mary Barrett.
