Republic of Ireland U21s overcome Montenegro to boost European Championship dream

The Republic of Ireland boosted their 2023 UEFA European Championship qualifying hopes with a 3-1 victory over Montenegro at Tallaght Stadium.

An excellent first-half goal from Will Smallbone was added to by Liam Kerrigan and Tyreik Wright in the second '45 to propel Jim Crawford's side into the second-place play-off spot in Group F with one more fixture remaining against group leaders Italy.

Ireland will be assured of a play-off place if third-placed Sweden do not beat the Italians on Thursday.

If that match were to see Italy fail to beat the Swedes, then victory for Ireland in Ascoli next Tuesday would mean automatic qualification to a Euros for the first time in Irish Under-21 history.

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