Gerry Smith's side, who were drawn alongside Spain, Bosnia and Belgium in the draw for the Regions Cup in Zagreb yesterday, were once again in impressive form after their 5-1 win over Tuesday evening against Calinganus.

The Amateurs ran out three-nil winners against Serie C side Olmedo with another highly impressive performance with Derek Varian's 38th minute goal being sandwiched by Molloy's second minute strike and a well executed 81st minute effort which killed the game as a contest.

The James Walsh skippered side could have won by a bigger margin but incorrect decisions to deny David Lacey on two occasions kept the game alive longer than their constant pressure deserved.

The Killester United player was prominent alongside Bluebell United's Peter Sherlock up front while Molloy, Ciaran Kenna, Ray Whelehan and Geoff Doyle also caught the eye.

Goalkeeper Brendan O'Connell had a relatively quiet night but excelled when saving a 58th minute penalty with a full-length dive to his left to stop Roberto Luzzo's spot-kick after Ciaran Kenna had tripped Salvatore Pravata.

The Amateurs continue their build-up for Croatia with some warm weather training in Portugal next month, but Smith was pleased with the way the squad had performed over both matches against their Sardinian opponents,

"This trip has been very worthwhile. We played some decent football and we had impressive performances along with some excellent individual performances and it's good that the competition for places to go to Croatia is very competitive," said Smith.

On the prospect of facing Spain, Bosnia and Belgium, Smith was cautious but optimistic: "There will be eight good sides contesting the finals.

"No matter what way the draw panned out, we were always going to be up against decent opposition. We know that we are a very competitive side and we will be well prepared for what lies ahead.

"The players have acquitted themselves well to date and they are an excellent group who put in a huge effort and commitment in playing for their country. We're looking forward to Croatia and we believe that we will travel with a degree of confidence because we have a great spirit and we have people who want to do well for themselves and their country," he added.

REP IRELAND: Brendan O'Connell; Conor Dillon, Adam Mitchell, Ciaran Kenna, James Walsh (capt), Geoff Doyle, Ray Whelehan, Derek Varian, David Lacey, Peter Sherlock, William Molloy. Subs: David Walsh for Sherlock (81mins).