The Ireland U17s have qualified for the quarter finals of the European Championships, after a 4-2 win over Hungry on Tuesday night.
A brace of goals from Wicklow 15-year-old Mason Melia and Luke Kehir inspired Colin O’Brien’s side, who went into the encounter knowing that only a win would suffice.
The fact that they were playing tournament hosts Hungary only added to the challenge.
But the boys in green got off to a flying start, with St Patrick’s Athletic club-mates Melia and Kehir linking up to break the deadlock after just five minutes.
Hungary struck back almost immediately but from provider to scorer, Melia rose highest to score from an Ike Orazi corner, putting Ireland back in front.
Orazi had the Hungry defence on strings at this stage and his cross from the by-line was met by Melia, who fired Ireland into a 3-1 lead. The team saved the best ’til last though, as Luke Kehir’s stunning finish from the edge of the box put this game to bed on 60 minutes.
Melia, his partner-in-crime, teed him up with a deft lay-off, but Melia’s beautiful finish into the top corner was a moment of pure magic.
“Melia attacks the centre halves so well,” said Alan Cawley on commentary, “plays a lovely cushioned pass, and what a finish from Luke Kehir, who is very good technically,” added the Sligo man.
Luke Kehir with a superb finish to score Ireland’s fourth 🙌☘️#IRLU17 | #COYBIG | #U17EURO
— Ireland Football ⚽️🇮🇪 (@IrelandFootball) May 23, 2023
Ireland now turn their attention to the winners of Group B for Saturday’s quarter-final.
Spain currently occupy that top spot, though that could change in Wednesday’s final round of group fixtures.
Related links:
- Kyle Coney asks question that’s on everyone’s lips about Tyrone’s forwards
- The GAA Hour: Kyle Coney on The Sunday Game row, the problem with Tyrone and a Mattie Ruane masterclass
- The GAA set to trial new kick-out and free kick rule in freshers football
