THE Republic of Ireland U23 side lost their opening game of the International Challenge Trophy when they went down to England in front of a crowd of 1,570 at the RSC last night to all but end their chances of progressing in the competition.

Non-league Droylsden have lost an appeal against their expulsion from the FA Cup for fielding an ineligible player.

Conference North side Droylsden could be thrown out of the FA Cup after fielding an ineligible player in the 2-1 second-round replay victory over Chesterfield.