Hoban on target as Irish side reach UEFA Regions Cup finals

WESTPORT United striker David Hoban has helped Republic of Ireland UEFA Regions Cup representatives Munster/Connaught to qualify for next year's final tournament with a game to spare.

The Irish side won 2-0 win against North-East Macedonia in the Italian town of Inveruno this afternoon, with Hoban scoring the second of those goals just four minutes after the break to complement a Shane Daly-Butz effort in the first half.

Although hosts Lombardia Regional FA beat MNZ Maribor 4-1 in the other game in the group, under the tournament rules the Irish side will progress on a head-to-head against the Italians even if they were to finish up level on six points.

Munster/Connaught secured a 1-0 win against the hosts on Wednesday thanks to a first-half penalty from Eoin Hayes. Hoban started that game and played for 68 minutes before being replaced.

The Westport man played for 79 minutes today before making way, helping Gerry Davis's side secure the victory that sees them through to the final tournament.

“It was a brilliant performance against a very good side. It was a tough game,” said Davis.

He added: “We scored a beautiful free kick from Shane Daly-Butz - no 'keeper would have stopped it. The second goal came from a fantastic cross from Shane Daly-Butz and it was a fantastic header from David Hoban. After that we were very solid.

“It's a case of mission accomplished. What an achievement from all the players and staff - everybody has been so good to work with. We've got nine months to prepare for the finals now.”

Last year, Republic of Ireland representatives Leinster/Munster won this tournament in Dublin, also under the stewardship of Gerry Davis.

Munster/Connaught meet MNZ Maribor in their final game on Sunday in Carvaggio, but the result will not impact on the final placings in the table.