Despite achieving resounding victories in their opening two Elite Round games, the Republic of Ireland Women's Under-19s head into Tuesday's game against Spain, knowing a win is needed to qualify for July's UEFA Women's Under-19 European Championship in Scotland.
Midfielder Megan Mackey has captained the team throughout a campaign which seen Dave Connell's side rack up five wins on the trot. The Brighton player scored an excellent goal in Saturday's 4-0 win against Serbia, and also impressed in the previous victory over Hungary, also 4-0.
"It's brilliant playing with the girls and playing well. We scored eight goals in the past two games so we're playing well. It was nice to get a goal against Serbia, but it's great to see the team playing well".
Mackey is still eligible to play with the Under-19s next season, but is enjoying the responsibility that the captain's armband brings.
"Captaining your country in an amazing thing. It's nice that Dave [Connell] trusts me and has given me these responsibilities. We have captains all over the pitch though."
After recording comfortable wins in the opening two games, Mackey is delighted to have the Spanish game on the horizon, knowing the side must win to advance.
"When the draw came out, nobody gave us a chance of beating them. They're the European champions. We all want to prove them wrong, stand up and be counted. Imagine sending a message across Europe that we've beaten the reigning champions? That would be something."
The Finals take place in Scotland in July, and Mackey has no intention of ending her international season on Tuesday evening, looking to further it by another two months.
"We want to go to the end of July. Some of these girls wont get this opportunity again next year. We have a great bond and work for each other. Hopefully the results come."
Head Coach Connell has a full squad of 20-players to call on for Tuesday's game. Kick-off in Santiago de Compostela is at 17:30 Irish time.
