Corcoran impresses despite defeat
Kells' Jimmy Corcoran was between the posts as the Republic of Ireland suffered a 1-3 defeat to England in Tallaght Stadium in their opening match of the UEFA Under-17 International Tournament on Thursday night.
First-half strikes by Harvey Elliott and Alexander Mighten gave England the platform for their eventual win, but the visitors were made to work very hard for their victory - particularly after England were reduced to 10 men just before half-time.
England were on top in the early exchanges and Joe Gelhardt’s 14th-minute deflected shot, after Miguel Azeez had rolled a free-kick to him, skidded just wide.
Corcoran, who is on the books of Preston North End, was forced into two saves in rapid succession from Fabio Carvalho’s full-blooded drive and Gelhardt’s follow-up.
Elliott opened the scoring for England in the 18th minute. The striker cut in from the right wing and his deflected left-foot shot squirmed under Corcoran at his near post. It could have been 2-0 just a couple of minutes later but for a fabulous save from Corcoran, who tipped a Carvalho half-volley over the top
Almost 30 minutes had elapsed before Colin O’Brien’s team created their first real opportunity. Matt Everitt was set up by Conor Carty but the his low shot was parried for a corner by James Trafford.
Ireland’s task became much more difficult in the 31st minute when Alexander Mighten shot found the Irish net from close range. Almost immediately, the home side were handled a lifeline when Festy Ebosele was taken down in the box by Yunus Musah, after a marauding run down the Irish left. Ebosele converted the spot-kick himself.
England went into the break with ten men after defender Dennis Cirken was shown two quick yellow cards just before half-time.
Despite Ireland having numerous chances in the second half, England doubled their lead with six minutes remaining. Substitute Sam Greenwood scored to guarantee the visitors the win.
The team return to action on Sunday afternoon when they play the Czech Republic in Tallaght Stadium at 3pm.
Republic of Ireland - Jimmy Corcoran; Seamas Keogh, Luke Turner, Cian Kelly, James Furlong; Brandon Holt, Joe Hodge; Matt Everitt, Timi Sobowale (Joshua Giurgi 63), Festy Ebosele (Sean Kennedy 90+3); Conor Carty.
England - James Trafford (Louie Moulden 46); Yunus Musah, Nathan Wood-Gordon, Dynel Simeu, Dennis Cirken; Jensen Weir, Miguel Azeez, Fabio Carvalho (capt) (Hayden Roberts 46); Harvey Elliott (Benjamin Knight 77), Joe Gelhardt (Morgan Rogers 63), Alexander Mighten (Sam Greenwood 63).