TWO Inishowen footballers have been named in the Republic of Ireland Women’s Under-17 squad for a friendly double-header against Iceland.
James Scott’s Ireland face Iceland on Friday, February 14 and Sunday, February 16 with both games taking place in Waterford.
Erin McLaughlin and Kerry Brown – who are both on the books at Sion Swifts – have been named in the Irish squad.
Having scored 21 goals in Qualifying Round victories over Albania, Lithuania, and Greece, the next task is to find a way past Denmark, Serbia, and Austria if Ireland are to advance to the finals tournament in Sweden.
“The squad and staff are really looking forward to the games against Iceland. We played against them twice last year in Iceland and they proved to be excellent opponents, so it will be a very good test ahead of the Elite Qualifiers in March,” said Scott.
“Over the last few months, there has been National Training days and now we have selected 20 players for this double header friendly. Five of the players are still eligible for the Under-16s and Jessie Stapleton will make her debut at Under-17 level.
“Our base for the friendlies will be Waterford and this will also be our venue for the Elite Qualifiers. We will be able to familiarise ourselves with the stadium, hotel and training ground. We would like to call on the local people to come support the team in what I’m sure will be two entertaining games.”