McNicholas starts for ROI U18s in Cup
SLIGO Rovers U19s goalkeeper Luke McNicholas started for both of the Republic of Ireland U18s matches with Wales in the John Coughlan Memorial Cup last week.
The sides could not be separated in the first game on Tuesday, with Luke making a number of fine saves in Tramore to deny Wales as the game finished 0-0.
With the final kick of the game Wales could have won but defender Chris Craven shot wide.
Speaking after the match, Republic of Ireland U18 head coach Jim Crawford was happy with how his side performed on the night.
“I thought we were excellent in the first half. “We started a little slower in the second half with Wales having the better chances.
“I’m happy for the team to keep a clean sheet,and with the amount of chances the team created tonight.”
The sides met again on Thursday in the second match and after Tuesday night’s scoreless draw, the winner of Thursday afternoon’s game knew they would lift the trophy.
Second-half goals from Harri Horwood and substitute Charlie Williams ensured the trophy returned to Wales.
Both team had chances to take the lead in the first half, as Ireland’s Cian Power and Wales winger Horwood both going close. His shot on the stroke of half-time was dropped by McNicholas but the Irish goalkeeper recovered excellently to avoid conceding.
Wales started the stronger in the second-half, but took until the 69th-minute to take the lead.
Striker Liam Doherty saw his show saved, before Horwood tapped in. The win was guaranteed in the 82nd minute when Williams’ shot beat substitute goalkeeper Adam Leonard.
Speaking after the game, Head Coach Jim Crawford said whoever scored the first goal was going to be crucial.
“It was an evenly contested game, with both defences dominating. “The game opened up after we made some changes and Wales took advantage.
“This week was about these players sampling international football.
“I hope they can kick on their careers, and play in the National League, the Head Coach added.
Sligo Rovers congratulated their U19 goalkeeper Luke on starting for both games in the Memorial Cup.