Ireland’s U17 women narrowly beaten in opening Euro game

Ireland were unlucky in their opening match of the UEFA Women’s U17 Championship, losing 1-0 to France despite a solid performance.

Manager Dave Connell had been bullish about his side’s chances before this afternoon’s game in Iceland, tipping them to do even better than last year’s U19s, who got to the semi-final stages of their competition.

18 mins: #IRLWU17 0-0 France - Great to see Irish supporters here in Reykjavik supporting the #IceQueens2015 #COYGIG pic.twitter.com/H6dsKs3wYv

— Ireland Football ⚽️🇮🇪 (@IrelandFootball) June 22, 2015

The Irish started brightly, with Eleanor Ryan-Doyle going close after ten minutes.

Both sides created chances in a lively first half, and Amanda McQuillan excelled in goals to keep France out on the half hour mark, but the game was still scoreless at half-time.

Half-Time: #IRLWU17 0-0 France - A couple of chances for both teams but Ireland can be very happy with their play #IceQueens2015 #COYGIG

— Ireland Football ⚽️🇮🇪 (@IrelandFootball) June 22, 2015

France broke the deadlock 15 minutes into the second half, Emelyne Laurent headed home following an assist by Agathe Ollivier.

Ireland made every effort to to get back on level terms, but the game ended 1-0.

76 mins: #IRLWU17 0-1 France - Saoirse Noonan has a shot blocked as Dave Connell's team continue to press forward #IceQueens2015 #COYGIG

— Ireland Football ⚽️🇮🇪 (@IrelandFootball) June 22, 2015

Ireland’s next game is on Thursday when they take on Switzerland - kick-off 2pm Irish time.