Ireland finish in a credible 6th place at the U19 European Team Championships after losing 2-1 to Finland in the 5/6 play-off. Over the last few days Ireland had impressive victories over Finland, Turkey, Switzerland and Norway to win their group stage to enter the last eight, unfortunately a 2-1 defeat to Hungry in the quarter finals had us playing for 5th place. We had Israel in the first tie of 5/8 play-off to set up the return match against Finland.
The result is a major improvement on previous years, however we were aiming for a top 4 finish. It is amazing to think that most members of this strong Irish team will be available to participate in this competition again next year where a top 4 finish must be a real possibility.
Ireland beat Finland and Denmark in the European U19 Championships in Finland – With the victory over 4th seeds and host nation Finland we win our current group. – click here to watch streamed matches.