The Republic of Ireland Men’s Cerebral Palsy (CP) team have kicked off their IFCPF European Championships campaign in Loughborough, UK, with a hard-fought 2–2 draw against Scotland on Saturday, August 16th.
Led by Manager Mick Doyle and Head Coach Paul Smyth, Ireland showed resilience in their opening fixture, twice coming from behind to secure a valuable point in their group opener.
The squad has been drawn from across the country and prepared with a demanding schedule of warm-up games against the likes of Raheny United, Carrick Rovers, Raharney FC, and Monaghan Town FC.
Those contests ensured tactical and physical sharpness heading into tournament football, and that work was evident in the battling spirit shown against Scotland.
Ireland’s campaign is anchored by a core of experienced leaders. Captain Joe Markey, with more than 135 caps since his 2002 debut, is joined by Ryan Nolan (80 caps), Carl McKee (70 caps), and Dillon Sheridan (55 caps), alongside a wave of ambitious young talent.
Much of that talent has been nurtured through the CP Football Academy, whose pathway has been central to developing players from grassroots through to the international stage.
Manager Mick Doyle praised the performance and the character of his side:
“We have a brilliant mix of experience and youthful ambition in this squad, and the players showed great fight to get something from the game. The Irish fans, families, and the CP Football community are right behind us, and that support means everything as we prepare for the challenge of Germany and the Netherlands.”
Ireland are in the same group as Germany and Netherlands. The game against the Dutch tomorrow will be streamed live on YouTube.
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