UEFA UNDER-17/France 2 Republic of Ireland 1:THE HEARTBREAK of losing deep into added time aside, Ireland had few complaints as their challenge at a first finals at this level in eight years began in disappointment in Antalya, Turkey yesterday. Despite a well-taken lead goal from Paul Murphy and heroic goalkeeping by Gerard Hanley, Ireland couldn't hold on.
France equalised through Yannis Tafer midway through the second half before substitute Alexandre Lacazette punished a bad mistake to win it in the third minute of stoppage time.
After 36 minutes Murphy headed home Greg Cunningham's cross. But France's pressure told on 65 minutes when Yannis Tafer beat Hanley. A jaded attempt at a clearance from Gavin Gunning gifted France their late winner.
REPUBLIC OF IRELAND: Hanley (Salthill Devon); Ormsby (Crumlin United), Connolly (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Joyce (Belvedere), Gunning (Blackburn Rovers); Doran (Blackburn Rovers), Clifford (Chelsea), Morrissey (Ringmahon Rangers), Murphy (Ipswich Town), Brady (Manchester Utd); Cunningham (Manchester City). Subs: Sullivan (Crumlin Utd) for Murphy (half-time), Satelle (Hull City) for Brayd (49 mins), Timmins (Birmingham City) for Doran (72 mins).
