English Schools' Football Association

England no. 11 De Abreu competes against N. Ireland's Josh Robinson (20)

esfa.co.uk caught up with the England Under 18 Schools’ team manager after the game to gain his thoughts on the 2-0 defeat against Northern Ireland on Friday evening at AFC Telford United.

Andy remained upbeat and said, “A defeat is always hard to take, especially when you have prepared so well forsuch an important game. Northern Ireland came needing a win having drawn at home last week against Scotland, so we knew it was always going to be an extremely challenging game. I thought we started well, but we never took full advantage of our early opportunities. After a bright start Northern Ireland came back into the game a little, and it was a shame that it was our mistake that led to the corner and resulting first goal.

We spoke about dealing with the setback at half time, and I think we played a little more football in the second half.The nature of the corner whichled to the second goal was again disappointing and I think we can tidy up our play a little there. My players are a bit down at the moment, but I don't think any of them should take it to heart; all in all I am very proud of their achievements in playing international football for the first time. There is still a lot of football to played yet in this tournament and this result will help to make us a stronger and better team.”

England's next match in the Centenary Shield is against Wales on Friday 25 March at Yeovil Town FC, kick-off 7.30 pm.

Ticket details v Wales at Yeovil Town FC