Connell proud as Ireland go down fighting

It may have been a step too far in the end, but the Republic of Ireland Women’s U19 team made a giant leap forward for youth football around the country.

Dave Connell ran out of superlatives for his squad after last night’s 4-0 semi-final defeat by the Netherlands that ended their Uefa European Championship adventure.

Yet, this young Irish side has created an incredible stir following qualification for this tournament, enjoying some remarkable wins over Spain, England, and Sweden.