While uncertainty reigns in regards to the Ireland senior team, there are bright spots being emitted by the U19s crop.
Tom Mohan's side have topped Group 10 of their 2019 UEFA European Championship qualifying group after sealing three wins from three.
They had to come from behind against the Netherlands, who will also join the Boys in Green in the Elite Phase of the qualifying process, beating the Dutch 2-1 at Longford's City Calling Stadium.
Having already beaten Bosnia and Herzegovina 3-1 and Faroe Islands 3-0 in the first two group games, they suffered an early setback against the Dutch team as Ole Romenij found the net after 15 minutes.
But Adam Idah of Norwich City levelled for Ireland before Will Ferry scored the winner.
Strong potential's brewing with our 🇮🇪U19s team! Three wins from three with Netherlands the latest team to be beaten #IRLU19 #COYBIG https://t.co/x65id6sMaO
— Off The Ball (@offtheball) October 16, 2018
Speaking after the game, head coach Mohan spoke of his delight at Ireland's progression.
"It was great to win the game. The boys showed great character and resilience. It's a great group. They know they can play against the best of teams," he said.
GOAL: #IRLU19🇮🇪 2-1 Netherlands🇳🇱
Will Ferry scores as Ireland take the lead with 20-minutes to go!
âž¡ï¸ https://t.co/PeiFWguofZ #COYBIG🇮🇪 pic.twitter.com/kyf99jZAuB
— FAIreland âš½ï¸ðŸ‡®ðŸ‡ª (@FAIreland) October 16, 2018
"We defended really well, right from the front to the back. We limited the Dutch to very few chances. We had numerous chances and could have scored more."
Ireland now enter the draw for the Elite Round phase which will take place in Nyon on December 6th. Armenia will host the final tournament in the summer of 2019.
Republic of Ireland: Brian Maher; Andy Lyons, Lee O'Connor (capt), Nathan Collins, Jack James; Conor Coventry, Aaron Bolger; Jason Knight, Troy Parrott, Will Ferry; Adam Idah (Jonathan Afolabi 80).
