Donaghy heaps praise on NI U-19’s despite Euro exit

Northern Ireland Under-19 manager Mal Donaghy has heaped praise on his team despite Saturday’s 2-1 defeat to Germany and his side’s exit from this year’s European Championship’s.

With Serbia & Montenegro beating Greece 3-0 in the other Group A game, Donaghy’s men needed to win by two clear goal’s if they were to progress to the semi-finals and a meeting with France.

However, despite being on top for most of the game at the Ballymena Showgrounds, the home side spurned numerous chances and eventually succumbed to a German blitzkrieg in the last ten minutes going 2-0 down to goals from Markus Steinhofer and Denis Epstein, despite captain Mustafa Kukukovic being sent-off on 79 minutes.

Thomas Stewart netted a late consolation goal in added time but it wasn’t enough for Donaghy’s men in front of a 2,100 strong home crowd.

“I am absolutely elated at our performance,” Mal Donaghy said afterwards. “One or two of the boys are crying in the dressing room but I can honestly say that was the single best performance in my time as manager.

“To totally outplay one of the best sides in the world was amazing. If the players can take that form into the Under-21s and beyond Northern Ireland football will be in good shape for the future.”

He couldn’t hide his delight, either, when asked about Northern Ireland’s stoppage time goal.

“That goal was, to me, like winning the FA Cup. I was so proud for the boys. They have been a joy to coach over the past three games.

“I’d like to place on record my thanks to those players who are leaving the squad. They have done me proud, they have done their country proud and they have impressed Lawrie Sanchez who now has three or four more names to consider for a senior call-up.”

Germany face France at the Ballymena Showgrounds on Tuesday with a 4.30pm kick-off while Serbia & Montenegro play England at Mourneview Park, Lurgan in the second semi-final, kick-off at 7.30pm. Tickets can be purchased at the turnstiles priced £5 adults and £2 children.

(MB/SP)