Ireland lose on penalties to Japan

The republic of Ireland U17s lost 4-2 on penalties to Japan in the third-placed play-off of the Toyota International Youth tournament in Japan yesterday.

Ireland came from behind twice to draw 2-2, but suffered cruel luck in penalties as they missed their final two kicks to finish fourth in the tournament.

To rub salt into the wounds, Korea - who beat Ireland courtesy of a dubious penalty in the final group game - won the tournament overall, beating Holland 3-2 in the final.

After falling behind, Ireland drew level through a wonderful James Ryan strike after a dangerous run by Keith Treacy had created space for the winger to finish. And, after Japan had gone in front again, Ireland drew level again when giant centre-half Eddie Nolan headed home his third goal in as many games in the tournament.

Ireland have one more game to end their Japanese tour as they face a Gifu high school selection in a friendly tomorrow.

Ireland U17s: Henderson (Aston Villa); Madden (Leeds U), Nolan (Blackburn), Power (Crumlin U), Quigley (Stoke City), Ryan (Liverpool), Bayly (Leeds U), Garvan (Ipswich), Moore (Man City); Treacy (Blackburn Rvs), Kiely (Cherry Orchard).

Subs: Judge (St Joseph’s Boys) for Moore, Connellan (St Francis Athlone) for Bayly (both half time), Gleeson (Wolves) for Garvan (50), Mckeever (Cherry Orchard) for Gleeson (65 mins), Boyle (Aston Villa) for Henderson (70 mins), Purcell (Belvedere) for Kiely (70 mins).