Originally Posted by
Stuttgart88
Won first game in an invitational friendly tournament in Hungary, 2-0 against Serbia & Montenegro. They play Poland later today & have another game on Saturday.
From FAI website:
One new international in Ireland’s Under-17 squad, striker Sean Scannell of Crystal Palace, celebrated his elevation with both the team’s goals in the victory over Serbia & Montenegro during the first game of the Hungary Invitational tournament in Kalocsa.
It was a first appearance in the Irish shirt for the London native and he will be aiming to continue his strong start this evening (Thursday) when the Republic meet Poland in the second of their three games this week (kick-off 4.30 pm, Irish time).
The Palace striker first appeared on the radar of Irish manager Sean McCaffrey during the International trials held in Dublin over the Summer and the youngster admits to being flattered when he was selected in the squad for Hungary.
“My grand-parents are from Castleblaney in County Monaghan,” said Scannell. “I was thrilled when I got called up for these games because I really liked the style of play in the Irish set-up and knew I had something to offer if I could get a chance.”
Scannell struck two second-half goals on his debut to see off Ireland’s bogey team at this level, Serbia & Montenegro, and he feels his approach to playing football is beginning to pay off.
“I came into the Irish squad at the weekend with a good attitude, wanting to impress Sean (McCaffrey) and the coaching staff. I love playing football but at the moment, I’m still combining school with my coaching at Crystal Palace. Next season, I’ll be in full-time training and that can only benefit my development.”
Manager Sean McCaffrey applauded Scannell’s effort in the game last night: “He deserved his goals for the work he put in during the match. His first goal was a brilliant finish from outside the box and the second was a real poacher’s goal from close range.”
The manager sends his young team out to do battle again this evening with a simple but effective message: “The players managed to retain possession very well against Serbia and that’s vital in International football. We want to keep doing that and doing it well because if gives us a great chance. We’re here to prepare for the UEFA qualifiers next month and a couple more displays like that will satisfy me.”
Team and match report to follow later
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