Irish qualify for Regions

THE Republic of Ireland's representatives in the UEFA Regions Cup, Eastern Region, completed their Intermediate Round qualifying group with a 100 per cent success rate after beating Israeli side Karmiel Tzfat in Hungary today.

Gerry Smith's side progressed to the UEFA Regions Cup main competition for the fifth time after three wins from three games.

Greg Moorehouse's 65th minute winner was the only goal of the game but a string of saves from keeper Basher Daher ensured the Irish never pulled away from Karmiel Tzfat.

"Greg is only turned 20. He's a kid but he's going to be some player in the next year or two," said Smith.

"It was a tough game but we're over the line now and we're looking forward to the finals next summer. We had a goal disallowed and a decent shout for a penalty too. It can be nervy when you are so near and so far.

"The squad have been fantastic all week. They really deserve this," Smith added.

"It's our fifth time to qualify which is great for the FAI and the players. We scored 11 and conceded just two."