Republic of Ireland

1-0

England

John O'Neill, 85

 

 


Amateur International Friendly
Saturday 30 September 2006
St. Michael's FC, Tipperary

England’s first Amateur International for 22 years ended in defeat on Saturday night when the side, represented by the Isle of Man League, went down 1-0 to the Republic of Ireland in Tipperary.

The match was used as a warm up for the UEFA Regions Cup qualifying round group matches due to be played in the Czech Republic early next year. The match, played on the pristine surface at Cooke Park, attracted a crowd of over 1,700, despite almost continuous torrential rain.

Despite the conditions, the game was played at a high tempo with no quarter given by two determined sides, but it was a single goal five minutes from time scored by John O`Neill that sealed the win for the Irish.

The Wayside Celtic striker stole between the otherwise impeccable defensive pairing of Nigel Shimmin and Mark Teare to head home to the delight of the home crowd.

The visitor’s task had been made more difficult in the 69th minute when half-time substitute Lee Dixon was sent off following a robust challenge. The side, missing influential winger Chris Bass and the physical presence of Ross Williamson up front were given a real taste of life at the sharp end of amateur football. And although Colum Morrissey tried bravely up front, he found his lone role against the tough tackling Irish defence very difficult.

However, despite being under pressure for much of the game they almost held on for what would have been a most creditable draw against a side that recently defeated the current holders of the UEFA Regions Cup, Spain 3-0.

The pick of the England side had to be Laxey FC keeper Mark Blair who turned in a superb display between the sticks.

A further friendly match will be arranged in the new year as the side builds up the preparations in their quest for European glory.

In the meantime, manager Kevin Manning and his assistant Keith Lunt will be invited to join up with the England National Game XI to observe their preparations for the final European Challenge Trophy match against Holland, which will be played at Burton Albion FC on 29 November.

England Team
Mark Blair, Sean Quaye, Nigel Shimmin, Mark Teare, Daniel Lace, Nick Hurt, Jim Travers, Kevin Megson, Julian Ringham, Johnny Myers, Calum Morrissey
Subs: Lee Dixon, Paul Jones, Chris Brown, Liam Cowin, Rob Cottier