Republic U-21s secure win in Sweden

Sweden Under-21 2 Republic of Ireland Under-21 3

The Republic of Ireland warmed up for their difficult Under-21 championship qualifier with a victory in Sweden.

The Republic secured a 3-2 win over Sweden in a thrilling friendly clash in Uppsala as six players made their debuts for Don Givens’ Irish side in what turned out to be an impressive performance.

The Irish face a tough UEFA Under-21 Championships qualifier against England in Turner’s Cross on Tuesday and will look to take this form into that tie.

Sheffield United midfielder Stephen Quinn put the Irish ahead in the 19th minute.

Quinn beat keeper Per Hansson after collecting a pass from Blackburn defender Eddie Nolan and advancing into the Swedish penalty area.

A string of saves from Charlton Athletic keeper Darren Randolph then denied the home side a first half equaliser.

Goal-line clearances from defenders Darren O’Dea and Michael Spillane also kept the Irish goal intact.

Sweden eventually levelled in the 54th minute when Johan Oremo tapped home after a shot by Marcus Berg was parried by substitute keeper Stephen Henderson.

The Irish regained the lead in the 62nd minute when Leicester midfielder Alan Sheehan headed home from a tight angle.

Everton youngster Aidan Downes marked his debut at this level with the third Irish goal nine minutes later.

Downes shot on the turn from the edge of the box to surprise keeper Hansson.

Sweden scored for the second time in the 81st minute when sub Pontus Wernbloom headed home from a right wing delivery by Mikael Lustig.