Republic Of Ireland U-17s Begin Euro Qualifying Campaign

Thursday, 7 October 2021 07:55

They take on Andorra this evening.

The Republic of Ireland under-17s begin their European Championship qualifying campaign this evening.

Colin O’Brien’s side take on Andorra at Turner’s Cross, where there’s a 7pm start.

Cork City centre back Cathal Heffernan will be hoping to play a key role in Colin O’Brien’s side as he looks to help his team plot a way through the first round of qualification.

“They’re massive games and everyone is looking forward to them,” said the 16-year-old defender.

“The buzz in the camp is great. I feel if we get a good week’s training in we can go out there and get the result.

“We were only together a few weeks ago for the games against Mexico and there’s a real togetherness in the camp. Most of us have been together since the Under-15s but even if there’s new players in the group they’re made to feel welcome and settle in quickly.”

A Cork-man, Cathal said it is an honour to play international football in his hometown. He explained:

“The fans were amazing against Mexico and to play in front of friends and family is an honour. Then add to that, you get to play in Turner’s Cross which is something you dream of when you grow up in Cork.”

For Cathal his international development is being aided by O’Brien and the defender praised his Head Coach.

“Colin has been really good with us, not just on the football side but the mental side when there’s added pressure. Colin is really good at helping us deal with that pressure and making sure we’re ready for that added exposure.

“We know there will be pressure in these games but the fans are going to play a massive part, we have to be ready as this is where it matters and they’re not friendlies. To have the fans there is going to be really good and we’re going to need them every step of the way, right from the first minute until to the last.

“Everyone is looking forward to testing themselves in competitive matches and embracing tournament football. We saw the EUROS over the summer and we’re so excited to be competing to play in a EUROS of our own.”