Ireland U16's clinch the 2024 Victory Shield
The Republic of Ireland U16’s clinched the 2024 Victory Shield with a 1-0 victory over Northern Ireland on Sunday.
The biggest take-home message from our 2024 Victory Shield Winning campaign has been the contribution from every single player in this U16 squad, particularly those coming off the bench - a consistent theme throughout the tournament.
On Sunday afternoon in our ‘winner takes all’ game against Northern Ireland, Paul Osam made 7 changes to the side that beat Wales 3-2 on Thursday afternoon.
The first half started nervy as both teams cancelled each other in a rather tame first half. The Ireland and St Pat’s goalkeeper, Darragh Brunton was the first goalkeeper called into action from a Luke Hawe shot at his near post.
Part of an impressive back four backline, young 15 year old right back Tadhg Prizeman of Shamrock Rovers was an imperative part of Paul Osam’s back four today. Solid and reliable, he was called upon early in the first half. Coran Madden sent a through ball to Joel Kerr for a possible certain goal only for a perfectly timed interception from Tadhg Prizeman, turning the ball out for a corner.
Jason Spelman, my man of the match in the first half in his defensive midfield role, again acted as the screen, intercepting and protecting the space ahead of the central defence. The Galway United player covered every blade of grass on that pitch today and showed his tactical intelligence, work-rate, stamina and his tenacity with a sound execution of the basics and fundamentals.
Centre back Séan Spaight created the best opportunity of the first half for Ireland, his darting run from the back with the ball at his feet and with space opening up in-front of him, he unleashed a rather tame shot, taking a deflection off Charlie Campbell into the hands of goalkeeper Michael Doherty.
Paul Osam made four changes to his side at half time. Off went goalkeeper Darragh Brunton to be replaced by Southampton’s George Moloney. Ben Dumigan, Richard Ferizaj and Desmond Armstrong all made way for Aidan Gabbidon, Brody Collins and TJ Molloy.
In the second half, Ireland delivered a completely transformed performance, showing greater urgency, moving the ball more swiftly, pressing higher up the pitch, and quickly regaining possession. A slight tactical shift saw the energetic substitute Brody Collins take on a more advanced attacking role, linking up effectively with TJ Molloy. David Dunne became increasingly influential with his attacking runs down the left wing, while Aidan Gabbidon replaced Ben Dumigan at centre-back, often stepping into midfield with the ball and making more attack-minded forward passes.
Niall Sullivan of St Pat’s delivered a standout performance in midfield. His off-the-ball work and relentless pressing were key features of his game, but it was his ball retention that truly shone. Sullivan consistently demonstrated how difficult he is to dispossess, maintaining control with composure. His movement across the pitch was intelligent, keeping the play flowing while showcasing his technical skill throughout the match.
Opportunities fell to David Dunne and Joe Byrne in quick succession as Northern Ireland kept up the pressure around the hour mark, with both teams pressing for the opening goal. Danny Burke came on for Dempsey in the 57th minute. Jack Greene replaced David Dunne at the same time.
TJ Molloy had the perfect opportunity to head Ireland ahead on the 70 minute but his header fell straight at the northern Ireland goalkeeper following a perfectly weighted cross from right back Tadhg Prizeman.
A few seconds later, the Dundalk FC man made no mistake. Unfortunate defensive errors saw Brody capitalise on the loose ball, laying it off to TJ Molloy to fire home from 10 yards out. (His third goal of the tournament.)
Northern Ireland pushed for a dramatic ending but a stubborn Irish defence held on to their 1-0 victory to lift the 2024 Victory Shield.
Throughout the Victory Shield campaign, the young Irish lads showed the ability to adapt in a high-pressure situation in all three games. Some players had to play in a number of different positions and had to draw on their character and resilience building vital experience to draw upon should similar situations occur in the future.
The subs who came on today, showed a top attitude, carried out the game plan and were resilient and effective. They helped the team to get over the line, showing the strength in depth throughout the squad, ultimately showcasing the talent we have…
From the players to their families to the coaches who have been involved with these lads at both international and club levels over the years, they all deserve full recognition and praise today.
Our FutureofIrishFootball is looking Bright…
Ben Dumigan, Tom McGrath and David Dunne | Photo Credit: Cork City Twitter Page
Tadgh Prizeman and Desmond Armstrong with the Shield / Photo Credit: Ricard Kerins Twitter Page
Danny Burke and Jack Greene of Shamrock Rovers celebrating with the Shield
Ireland: Brunton (Moloney 41), Dempsey (Burke 57), Spaight (C), Dumigan (Gabbidon 41), Prizeman, Spelman, Ferizaj (Collins 41), Sullivan (McGrath, 77), Dunne (Greene 57), Byrne, Armstrong (Molly 41).