Kilbehenny teen’ called into international squad

Kilbehenny had a particular reason to celebrate Ireland’s victory over Australia in Tuesday night’s friendly fixture, as local star footballer Aoibheann Clancy was called up to the ladies international senior team squad ahead of the fixture.

The 17 year old, a midfielder with Wexford Youths, was called up to Vera Pauw’s team on Sunday evening, attending the match in Tallaght Stadium where the home team defeated the Aussies 3-2.

TheAvondhu spoke to Aoibheann’s father, Padraig ahead of Tuesday night’s game, when they should have been headed to Portugal.

“Myself and my wife had the tickets to watch her play in Portugal - she was due to join the U19s against the home team. She was playing in Limerick on Sunday with Wexford Youths, and due to fly to Portugal on Monday. She’d already scored a goal in Sunday’s game, so was already on a high.”

“And they said, ‘Do you mind if she doesn’t go to Portugal?’ Of course, she was delighted.”

Aoibheann started out with Kilbehenny Celtic, playing with both the boys and girls teams. Padraig expressed how proud the family are of their aspiring star, along with the broader community.

“She’s 17 years old, and to be called up at that age is phenomenal. She’s doing her Leaving Certificate in Presentation in Thurles, and we’re very, very proud of her.”

WORLD CUP QUALIFIERS

The Wexford Youths midfielder joined Vera Pauw’s Ireland senior team alongside Celtic’s Izzy Atkinson from Dublin, and Liverpool striker Leanne Kiernan, who hails from Cavan.

The three had been drafted in to replace the injured Éabha O’Mahony from Cork City, Megan Connolly, also from Cork, and Roma McLaughlin, Donegal.

The team are now looking forward to the World Cup qualifiers, facing Sweden on October 21st in Tallaght Stadium.