Boland shines for Ireland U16s in Finland
Ruby Boland in action for Ireland U16s against Finland
Kildare's Ruby Boland played a starring role as Ireland U16s won all three games at the recent 2026 UEFA Development Tournament in Finland. It was an impressive clean sweep for James Scott's starlets as the enjoyed three wins in Ereekilla this week. The Irish team have been a fiormmidable force in 2026 and came into this tournament unbeaten in the previous two International camps against Portugal and Switzerland.
The tournament favourites were the hosts Finland and Irelands first opponents, a physical encounters that saw Ireland dismantle their attacks in a bruising manner, eventually winning 3-1 with Boland's performance in defence drawing rave reviews.
Boland, the Shamrock Rovers star, is having a great season with the u17 league of Ireland table toppers and has also been a flagstone in defense for their u23 side as they push to secure title play offs. Ruby is fast becoming one of the country's strongest defensive prospects to strive for a career in soccer.
James Scott and the management team had reason to celebrate a wonderful tournament as the girls in green went on to beat Iceland 3-0 and Hungary 4-1, with Boland featuring in both, and sealing victory in the tournament.
Preparations will now turn to securing qualification for EUR0 2027 in the matches that will be played later in the year.
