It was to be a difficult afternoon for Ireland Boys Under-15s as they succumbed to a 4-0 defeat at the hands of Spain.

Three first half goals in the opening half-an-hour followed by a fourth in the final minute of the game made it a comfortable win for the hosts

Spain ahead after four minutes. Barcelona’s Hector Asumu was able to run through on goal before being able to squeeze in his effort past Adam Madejek in the Irish goal.

It was all Spain and Pedro Ibanez would double the home side’s lead in the 23^rd minute as he found the top corner from close range following hesitancy in the Irish backline.

Four minutes later it was three to the hosts. Pau Sarria swept home from inside the penalty area to give Spain a comfortable 3-0 lead.

Ireland would have to wait until the 40^th minute to get a sighter on the Spanish goal. McCormack-Crowe squeezed between the two defenders and his lofted volley almost caught out goalkeeper Joan Gomes Senabre.

In the second half, Ireland looked more threatening however Madejek pulled off a great save in the 72^nd minute to palm Thiago Gomes’ attempt around the post for a corner.

The game was put to bed in the last minute for 4-0 when Ricardo Perez wrapped up the contest with a close-range finish.

The teams meet again on Thursday morning.

Spain: Gomez Senabre, Barrajon, Escáriz, Fernandez (C), Minite, Bernal, Sarria, Asumu, Polo, Alonso, Ibanez. Substitutions: Rico Albert, Del Castillo, Hugo Fernandez, Castellanos, Pallares, Bielsa, Oguniana, Palomar, Perez, Ruiz, Calderon, Diaz, Montes.

Ireland: Madejek, Lee (Magill, 84’), Foley (Senga, 58’), Fox-Morgan, Bardenn(Moran, 46’), Isakadze, Jakas (Carney, 58’), Rehill (O’Snodaigh, 58’), Okharedia (Toth, 46’), McCormack-Crowe (Bonner, 46’), Power (Keating, 58’)

International Friendly Result/Fixture 

Tuesday, October 28 | Spain 4-0 Ireland
Thursday, October 30 | Spain vs Ireland, Albir Garden Resort, Alicante, Kick-off 9.30am*

Kick-off are Irish time*