Quinn on the mark for ‘excellent’ Ireland

IRELAND’S women secured a fine victory over Wales thanks to a second-half header from Louise Quinn.

Ireland dominated the vast majority of the contest in the Estadio de Municipal Marbella to end their international camp with an impressive victory over a strong Welsh side.

Defenders Diane Caldwell and Megan Campbell both missed the international friendly through injury while striker Emily Whelan was sidelined through illness. Claire O’Riordan came into the starting line-up to replace Campbell in Colin Bell’s only change to the team following the 0-0 draw against the same opposition last week.

In the blistering Spanish heat, both sides struggled to create openings during the first half. The closest Ireland came was three minutes from the break through full-back Harriet Scott.

The tireless Leanne Kiernan retrieved a loose clearance on the right and her cross was only punched away as far as the on-rushing Scott, who failed to adjust in time as her shot was blocked.

After the break, Ireland were the far superior team and almost went ahead in the 61st-minute. After a 15-pass move from Colin Bell’s side, the Welsh defence cleared the ball out to Quinn (pictured) who fired a shot narrowly over from 30 yards.

A minute later, Quinn had her goal. Heather Payne won a free-kick on the right and Tyler Toland’s pinpoint cross found the Arsenal defender who rose highest to head home.

It was a quiet 45-minutes for goalkeeper Marie Hourihan as Ireland defended stoutly throughout and secured the victory they deserved after the 10-day international camp in Marbella, Spain.

“It’s a fantastic victory for the team and I’m absolutely delighted with the players. I felt we struggled with the Welsh press in the first half but really kicked on after the break and deservedly won,” said head coach Bell. “This is the best camp I’ve had with the team during my time here. The second-half performance was excellent.”