Published: Wednesday, 30th June, 2010 5:00pm

Byrne to the fore as Ireland U-17s reach Euro final

BEALNAMULLA star Jennifer Byrne was to the fore over the weekend as Ireland under-17s ladies' soccer team lost the final of the UEFA European Championships in cruel fashion in Switzerland.

The 17=year-old, from Ballinahown, marshalled Ireland's defence throughout the semi-final victory over pre-tournament favourites Germany last Tuesday week, and also played with poise and control as Ireland held an impressive Spanish team to a scoreless draw in Saturday's decider.

Unfortunately, Ireland were eventually defeated 4-1 on penalties by Spain, but as well as showing their capabilities at the four-team tournament, Ireland's progress to the final also ensured qualification for September's FIFA World Cup Finals in Trinidad & Tobago in September.

Jennifer, who actually top-scored as a striker for Bealnamulla last season, said the initial disappointment of losing the final to Spain has now transferred into pride at Ireland's displays at the tournament. For example, Ireland went into their semi-final against Germany as massive outsiders, with the Germans having never previously tasted defeat at this level and also seeking a third straight European Championships title.

It was also the very first time that an Irish ladies team had qualified for a major soccer tournament.

However, a delightful free kick by Louth native Megan Campbell, who plays for St Francis in Dublin, sealed a brilliant win for Ireland.

Speaking about the defeat of the highly fancied Germany, Jennifer Byrne told the 'Westmeath Independent': "Germany were obviously everyone's favourites to beat us but we just decided to go to Switzerland and try our very best. I suppose we were spurred on by the underdog tag, and I think it's fair to say that Germany were under all the pressure. We knew they were a very strong side and had never lost a match at this level, but we got the win and we're absolutely delighted."

Speaking before the win over Germany, manager Noel King - noted for his spells as manager in the League of Ireland with Derry City, Shamrock Rovers and Limerick - had commented on the confidence within the Irish camp.

In Saturday's final, Ireland were under fierce pressure for long spells against a very technical and skilful Spanish team, who were inspired by captain Amanda Sampedro.

Spain had actually lost the previous tournament's final (7-0 to Germany), but made much of the running against a very disciplined Irish team, with Byrne again in fine form in defence.

Jennifer said: "I suppose we were fairly confident going into the final, but we knew Spain had a lot of quality, and that they would be quick and lively. They were always going to be tricky opponents but we thought we could possibly nick it again, maybe another 1-0 or something. We did very well during the game but unfortunately missed out on penalties, but none of the girls should be too down about that because these things happen in penalty shoot-outs. We were very disappointed in the immediate aftermath of the shoot-out, it's very hard to take; but I think we can be proud with our performances at the tournament."

Ireland can now look forward to another exciting adventure at September's World Cup finals in Trinidad & Tobago, and Jennifer is hoping to still be involved with the squad when that tournament comes around.

"Our main aim during the European Championships finals was to finish in the top-three and secure a place at the World Cup. Obviously, it's a great feeling to be heading to a World Cup and we're all really looking forward to it. Again, we'll just go there and give it our best, and who knows what might happen after finishing second at the European Championships," Jennifer said.

Meanwhile, Jennifer's club manager Gerry Doyle, of Bealnamulla, said everyone at the club is delighted for Jennifer.

"Everyone at Bealnamulla Football Club would like to congratulate Jenny on her great performances at the European Championships and, indeed, during the qualifiers for the tournament," said Gerry.

It's a fantastic achievement for Jenny, her family and our club, and it's great to see someone with such a great personality doing so well. Jenny has played with Bealnamulla for four years and is a smashing player," he added.