Republic of Ireland win European Under-16 Soccer Championship.
The Republic of Ireland beat Italy 2-1 at McDiarmid Park, Perth in Scotland to become Under-16 UEFA Champions.
The fans knew the importance of the occasion. Many had travelled from far and wide.
Keith Foy put the youngsters in the lead from a superb free kick.
The scoreboard told a magical tale.
The Italians raised their game in the second half and equalised. However, the sides were only level for five minutes with David McMahon scoring the winning goal to see the Republic of Ireland win 2-1.
These proud young men were on top of the continent of Europe.
The young players are full of praise for their manager Brian Kerr who in turn is full of praise for the winning team.
That’s how our teenage footballers became the best in Europe. A group of talented, level headed and disciplined young men who did their country and their parents proud.
The starting lineup for the Republic of Ireland team included captain Shaun Byrne, Joseph Murphy in goal, John Thompson, Ian Rossiter, Keith Foy, John O’Shea, James Goodwin, Brian O’Callaghan, Kevin Grogan, Liam Miller, and David McMahon. Substitutes were Jonathan Douglas, Desmond Byrne, Brendan McGill, Graham Barrett, Andy Reid, David Warren, and David Madden.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 9 May 1998. The reporter is Gareth O’Connor.