NORTHERN Ireland will be gunning for points in tonight's Under-23 International Challenge Trophy clash with the Republic of Ireland at Mourneview Park (7.45pm).
David Jeffrey’s (above) squad is made up of Carnegie Irish Premier League players while Eircom League personnel will be on duty for the Republic.
Pat Fenlon’s Republic beat Slovakia in their opener in Group B in November while Northern Ireland lo
st 2-1 in Belgium.
And following December’s defeat in Tournai, Jeffrey admits a positive response is needed tonight in Lurgan.
“We performed superbly in Belgium but came away with nothing,” he said.
“That makes Tuesday’s game vital, especially as we have another away game left against Slovakia.
“But the players have come together, at what is a difficult stage of the year for them, and the spirit is good and they are raring to go.
“That’s all you can ask for as a manager, and hopefully the boys can perform on the night. It will be exceptionally tough, especially against full-time opposition.
“But we are looking forward to the challenge.”
Group A in the Trophy competition consists of holders England, Finland, Wales and Italy and the two group winners will meet in the final in February 2009.
Belgium currently lead the table with four points from two games after they also drew against Slovakia.
The Republic have three points after their win over Slovakia, who have one point from two games.
Northern Ireland prop up the table after losing their opener.
New Republic of Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni will also be in attendance at Tuesday’s game, running his eye over a number of potential stars of the future.
The full article contains 287 words and appears in News Letter newspaper.
