Impressive Ireland outdo Denmark

The Republic of Ireland topped UEFA European Women's Under-17 Championship first qualifying round Group 4 with a 1-0 defeat of Denmark in the deciding game.

Killeen winner
Both sides had beaten Turkey and hosts Slovenia in their first matches, with Ireland having a goal difference advantage. A draw would have booked their place in the second qualifying round draw on 16 December but they were dominant throughout and Denmark goalkeeper Tanja Rasmussen was beaten on 61 minutes whern Denise O'Sullivan's cross from the right was turned in by Stacie Killeen. Denmark are still very well placed to go through as one of the six best runners-up across the ten groups with the best record against the top three in their section.

Coach thrilled
Ireland coach Harry Kenny said: "With only one team guaranteed to qualify from this difficult group with Denmark, Slovenia and Turkey, I am absolutely delighted that the girls came out of it with maximum points and in the process keeping three sheets. Since the tournament started, we felt that the team were performing better with every game and to defeat a top class footballing nation like Denmark so comprehensively is very satisfying. It would be very difficult to pick out any individuals from the three performances but the girls at the back were immense and the central midfielders, Dora O'Gorman and Ciara Grant bossed their opponents all week."

Turkey in third
Kenny's team began with a 5-0 win against Slovenia including two goals from Rianna Jarrett. Denmark beat Turkey 3-0 with a Fitore Zejmullahi hat-trick. Ireland matched that scoreline against Turkey, O'Sullivan scoring twice. Meanwhile, two Julie Moeslund goals were giving Denmark a 2-0 win in their game with Slovenia, who were to lose 1-0 to Turkey for third place, Gizemk Gönültaş on target.