Irish women boost World Cup hopes

THE Republic of Ireland senior women’s side gave their World Cup qualifying campaign a massive boost yesterday by defeating Israel 3-0 at the at the Ness Ziona Stadium in Israel.

Chicago Red Stars striker, Fiona O’Sullivan bagged two goals and Michele O’Brien sealed the victory with a third which puts Noel King’s side right back into contention in Group 6 before hosting third-placed Switzerland in Dublin this month.

The Irish took the lead in the 32nd minute through Fiona O’Sullivan and just after the break the powerful Chicago red Stars striker headed a second. The win leaves Ireland level on points with group leaders, Russia and three points ahead of Switzerland who visit Richmond Park on Wednesday week for a crucial group 6 qualifier.

The Swiss, who have two games in hand have the chance to go level on points with Ireland and Russia as they play host to Israel next Wednesday.

Meanwhile Kevin Knight’s superb second-half winner against Finland got the Ireland’s European U17 Championship qualifying hopes back on track in Greece yesterday.

Two days after Ireland opened their elite group campaign by losing 3-0 by mini-group hosts Greece, their win has resurrected their prospects of reaching the finals in May to be hosted by Liechtenstein.

Ireland side go into Wednesday’s final series of matches needing to beat Austria and hope that Greece are denied victory by Finland in the other game being played simultaneously.

Republic of Ireland: McDermott (Arsenal); Keane (Man Utd), Yadolahi (Burnley), McGinty (Man Utd), McHugh (Reading); Murray (Watford), Sutherland (QPR), Byrne (Leicester), Knight (Leicester); Purdy (West Ham), O’Brien (Millwall).

Subs: Smith (Southend) for Murray (63), Murphy (Reading) for O’Brien (69), Barker (Belvedere) for Purdy (78).