Noonan heads Ireland into last 32 of Under 17 World Cup

Michael Noonan scored his second of the Under 17 World Cup in Qatar as Ireland came from behind to beat Uzbekistan and secure a place in the knockout stages
Noonan heads Ireland into last 32 of Under 17 World Cup

Michael Noonan on the attack against Uzbekistan Photo: ©INPHO

Ellistown’s Michael Noonan continues to shine on the world stage as his header secured a 2-1 win for Ireland over Uzbekistan at the Under 17 World Cup in Qatar.

Noonan followed up his goal and man of the match display in the opening game against Panama with a well placed header in the 75th minute as Ireland came from behind to secure their second win of the competition.

The prodigious young talent, who earlier this week was included on the shortlist for the for the PFA Ireland Young Player of the Year after his performances in Shamrock Rovers’ title winning season, has wasted little time showcasing his talents to the world and was named man of the match for the second time in the competition.With their place in the knockout stages now assured, Ireland go into Tuesday’s final group game against Paraguay knowing that draw will be enough to secure top spot in the group.

At the other end of the pitch, Noonan’s namesake, Alex, also showed his quality. The Maynooth goalkeeper made a particularly good save in the 15th minute when he raced from his line to save at the feet of Sodikov.

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