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Northern Ireland win Greece opener

Northern Ireland’s Women’s Under-17 team geared up for Euro qualifiers next month by defeating Greece’s WU17s 2-1 in the first of two friendlies this week.

Northern Ireland started strongly, enjoying plenty of possession in the early stages. It was an entertaining encounter as both sides created opportunities, however there were few clear cut chances.

Greek attacker Maryam Melissanidis was a constant threat during the first half and the home defence had to be on their toes to keep her at bay. In the Northern Ireland ranks, defender Niamh Hassan put in a great shift in the opening period.

After the break it was a much more open contest as both teams went in search of goals. Greece defender Tzoana Rakipi was booked for tugging back Northern Ireland substitute Olivia Campbell as she raced towards goal.

Then, against the run of play, the Greeks took the lead through Christina Triantafyllopoulou.

Northern Ireland continued to press and they equalised on 77 minutes when a Lucy Kelly corner was converted by Campbell.

Just three minutes later, the home side edged ahead when Kelly scored with a fine strike – and it proved to be the winner.

The teams are set to meet again at the same venue on Friday (6 September). The game at the home of Ballyclare Comrades is due to start at 3pm.

Northern Ireland WU17s: Abbie Smith, Chloe Beckinsale, Sophie Hutchinson, Niamh Hassan, Sophie Pollock, Mirjana Karrabecaj, Charlotte Havern, Jessica McGuinness (captain), Lucy Kelly, Ava Hurl, Mia Reilly. Subs: Kayli-Ann Clayton, Olivia Campbell, Tara Kerr, Caitlin Carlisle, Lilly Jeffery, Natnicha Mills, Zara Maguire, Caitie McGurnaghan, Lillie Horner, Ellen McDermott, Ruby Adair.

Greece WU17s: Argyri Asproudi, Anna Konstantinidou, Maryam Melissanidis, Tzoana Rakipi, Maria Gkizari, Christina Triantafyllopoulou, Niki Malamousi, Margatita Mara, Ioli Stavropoulou, Georgia Moschona, Griselda Tselaorcelakriselntaor. Subs: Dimitra Teneketzi, Olga Iakovidou, Stavroula Ntorli, Georgia Vlachonikoli, Anastasia Eirini Askaridou, Myrto Kolempa, Viktoria Krystalli, Caolan Boyd-Munce has two capsMyrto Styliani Axiarli, Valeria Koutsouri, Apostolia Bartzou, Christina Kyranoudi, Drosoula Lampropoulou, Ioanna Bataoula.

(irishfa.com)