King names girls squad for Youth Olympics
The Irish girls' soccer squad for the European Youth Olympics has been named by team coach Noel King.
King has chosen a squad of 16 players for the event, which take place in Paris next week. For the first time ever, Ireland’s Under-17 girl’s team will challenge for Olympic gold.
The Irish girls will fancy their chances of getting into the medals should they overcome their pool opponents Iceland and Denmark who they play on July 28 and July 30.
Hot favourites going into the tournament will be the host nation – France – who is grouped in Pool B with Switzerland and Sweden.
There are 48 countries taking part in what is the biggest Olympic style sporting event for young athletes in Europe.
The Irish team will depart for Paris on July 25 and will be based at the La Cité Internationale University.
Republic of Ireland: Denise McElhinney (Donegal), Susan Byrne (St. James Gate), Elis Nevin (Knock/Kiltimagh), Amy O’Keeffe (Cork), Lisa Toohey (Annacotty), Maria Hogan (Newtown Ladies), Edel Malone (Lifford), Sara Lawlor (Peamount), Katie Taylor (St. James Gate), Casey O’Driscoll (Kerry), Ann-Marie McDonagh (Castle Celtic), Niamh Small (St. James Gate), Niamh Fahy (Salthill Devon), Wendy McGlone (St. James Gate), Sandra Mulhall (Templeogue), Carol Breen (Benfica).
Standby players: Sinead Tucker (Peamount) and Danielle McDaid (Donegal)
Manager: Noel King
Assistant: Marie Price-Bolger
