Knight proves Ireland's hero

Kevin Knight's 54th-minute strike got the Republic of Ireland's UEFA European Under-17 Championship elite round Group 3 campaign back on track.

Having lost 3-0 to hosts Greece on Friday, Ireland needed a win today against the side held 3-3 by Austria last time out. Ireland enjoyed the best of the play and thanks to their win are now second and can seal their place in the finals by beating Austria on Wednesday, provided leaders Greece do not defeat Finland.

Ireland were lively from the off with Sean Murray's runs down the right a constant threat, and on one slaloming dribble after six minutes he beat two players and found Daniel Purdy, whose shot was blocked. Finland did have their moments in the first half, but goalkeeper Ville Kauppinen had to be alert when Aiden O'Brien danced past two defenders in the box.

The second period began with Ireland still on top and in the 53rd minute Knight muscled his way down the left, dribbled past one defender and served the ball into the path of Purdy, whose close-range shot was parried by Kauppinen. Ireland soon had their reward, however, breaking the deadlock from Knight's splendid bicycle kick. Finland's hopes of qualifying now rest on them beating Greece by three goals and Ireland drawing with Austria.

Knight said: "This was a real boost after losing to Greece on Friday. Our chances have gone up a lot now even though Greece still have a slight advantage. We just have to win the next game and hope Greece drop points. I really needed the goal and the team needed it too."

Finland defender Patrick O'Shaughnessy reflected: "It wasn't a good result for us. A draw would've been better, but they did create chances. It's difficult for us to go through now because we only have one point."