By Rory Lynskey and Cormac Byrne
A Reece Grego-Cox hatrick sent the Republic of Ireland under-21’s on their way to comfortable 4-0 win over Israel – cementing their spot at the top of Group 5.
The Boy’s in Green went into this game fresh off the back of a 0-0 draw with Norway on Thursday night, and their latest win will go a long way towards deciding who will progress to the 2019 under-21 Euro’s in Italy.
Everton midfielder Harry Charlsey was also on target against Israel.
It was a supreme performance from Noel King’s side at Tallaght Stadium, and they found themselves ahead after just 50 seconds.
The Liberty caught up with QPR striker Ryan Manning after the Norway game, he said: “We played really well in patches and created plenty of chances throughout the game so we can use that and go forward into the Israel game tomorrow full of confidence.
“Israel will pose a different kind of threat. They’re not as physical as Norway, very technical in their play and we’ll have to adjust our approach slightly to face up to that challenge.
“They can give us problems but we can give them problems as well and we can only optimistic going into the game.”
Elsewhere in the group, Norway defeated heavyweights Germany 3-1 on Monday night.
Next up for Ireland is a tricky trip away to the Norwegians on the 14th of November.