King still believes despite costly defeat

Ireland U21 manager Noel King is refusing to give up the Euro qualification quest following last night’s defeat to 10-man Turkey.

Despite Ireland creating the better chances and holding a numerical advantage for the last 17 minutes, substitute Oguzhan Ozyakup silenced the Showgrounds crowd with an 84th-minute goal.

The reverse leaves Ireland requiring six points from their two remaining games in Hungary and Italy next month in order to finish in second place, although that may still not be enough to grab a play-off place.