Euros Here We Come – Ireland Qualify
Ireland booked their place in the Euros 2016 in France by defeating Bosnia 2-0 in Dublin after the first leg 1-1 draw in Bosnia. Ireland saved their best form till last with a great performance to finish of the qualifying campaign. With so many injuries and suspensions, Ireland still managed to deliver a fantastic display dominating from the start. Working tirelessly putting Bosnia under pressure high up the pitch, Ireland got a stranglehold on the game with the majority of possession and most of the goal chances.
Martin O’Neill side opening the scoring in the 24th minute from the penalty spot after a well-worked move forced Bosnia to foul in the area. Walters stepped up and held his nerve to put Ireland 1-0 and 2-1 up on Bosnia over the two legs. Walters then added a second with 20 minutes remaining. A well-taken volley to make it 2-0 and capped a tremendous 90 minutes and indeed great form over the campaign. The Stoke midfielder has been the Republic’s best player since the opening game, his return giving the team a great boost for tonight’s crucial fixture.
Walters deservedly received the man of the match, but central defenders Richard Keogh and Ciaran Clarke should be given lots of credits keeping Bosnia’s star Striker Dzeko quiet for two legs. Dzeko was highlighted as Ireland’s biggest problem pre-match but the centre partnership were incredible only conceding one chance over 180 minutes speak volumes.
Ireland’s qualification is a significant achievement for manager Martin O’Neill and his assistant Roy Keane. They had their critics discontent with the style of play and after defeat to Scotland in Glasgow qualification prospects were not good. But the team rallied brilliantly with some good results and that sensational victory over world champions Germany. It was a tough group with 4 teams eying the Euro’s so to come out of that we must give great credit to Martin ONeill.
A great lift to Irish football with all the doom and gloom this will heighten the buzz around the team and expectations for the summer. As we all know with Roy Keane on board the Irish will certainly not be going to make up the numbers…..you just never know. We are all allowed to dream, see you in France.
Supporters thinking of going to Euros now the time start planning your trip. We are offering TN3280 toner cartridges excellent for printing posters and card messages for Ireland’s team at the games.
- Published in News