An early strike from Leanne Kiernan gave Ireland their second win from three Elite Phase qualifiers but they know have to wait to see if they qualify with the best runners-up record.
A strong and vocal group of Irish supporters cheered the team on, but the players needed little added inspiration because a place at the finals in Belarus was up for grabs.
Following an opening victory over Hungary, Dave Bell’s team sat top of Group 3 before slipping to a late defeat to Czech Republic. Therefore, only victory over France would keep them in the hunt.
Ireland certainly did their job with Kiernan supplying the goal on 21 minutes following a period of pressure. It was a goal that stunned their opponents and gave Ireland an advantage that they never let go of.
Republic of Ireland U-17s: McAloon; O’Callaghan, Farrelly, Doyle, Craven; Noonan, Ruddy (Reybet-Degat 57), Kavanagh; Payne, Homan, Kiernan.
France U-17s: Joly; Drozo (Rey 72), Goetsch, Enguehard, Rebours; Rueda (Khelifi 53), Gillet; Laplacette, Boussaha, Canon; Ikene (Cochelin 30).
Source / photo – fai.ie
