Irish eyes smiling
Wednesday, April 10, 2002
Article summary
The Republic of Ireland beat the Netherlands to become the first side to qualify for the 2001/02 UEFA European Under-19 Championship finals.
Article body
The Republic of Ireland have become the first side to join hosts Norway in the 2001/02 UEFA European Under-19 Championship finals.
Sneijder leads onslaught
The Irish beat the Netherlands 2-1 on aggregate over two legs in the first intermediate round tie to be completed. After securing a 2-1 victory in the first leg in Rotterdam, Ireland held the Dutch at bay 0-0 in the second leg at Turner's Cross, despite an onslaught led by AFC Ajax youngster Wesley Sneijder.
Murphy on top form
Irish goalkeeper Brian Murphy had to be on his best form to deny the Dutch, including one spectacular save late on from an Argan Robben shot. Thon van Beukeribg was sent off for the visitors in the dying seconds.
Tournament format
The winners of the remaining six intermediate round encounters will join Norway and Ireland at the final tournament which takes place from 21-28 July 2002. The Norwegians, as hosts, qualified automatically. The draw for the final tournament will take place next month..
