U19s kick off shield bid with English encounter

CHAMPIONS Ireland bid to advance a little closer to their third consecutive Centenary Shield (Schools U19 soccer) honours when they play England at Turner’s Cross tonight (7pm).

Ireland were elected full members of the Schools International Board in 2002 and confirmed their status by defeating England, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales in their first competitive matches.

Last year they retained the trophy when they beat Northern Ireland 2-1 in their final match at Century Homes Park and a 4-1 win over Scotland last week suggested they are well capable of repeating previous successes.