Ireland Men’s Under-17s fell to a 3-0 defeat to Finland in the first of two friendlies in Oliva Nova, Spain this week.

A first half goal by Valtteri Lehtomäki was followed by second goals from Alberto Velásquez and Alex Myntti to seal the win.

Newcastle United’s Rory Finneran was named captain for the game, which is being used as preparation for next months U17s EURO Qualifiers against Poland, Belgium and Iceland.

And while the first half was largely dominated by the Irish side, the Finnish struck first in the 35th minute through attacking midfielder Lehtomäki.

There were first international appearances for Klub Kildare’s Chris Idah and Finn Harps Gavin McAteer who were both introduced in the second half.

But goals from Valásquez and Myntti  in the 66th and 77th minute, respectively, sealed the victory. Ireland will look to bounce back when they face Hungary at the same venue on Saturday morning.

Ireland: Topcu, Canny (Gabbidon, 69’), Leonard (Skoubo Keely, 80’), McDonagh, Hayes (Idah, 80’), Finneran (C), McMahon Brown (Ogbonna, 59’), Martos (McAteer, 82), Lee (O’Neill, 69’), Dunne (Spaight, 46’), Tollett (Akrintayo, 59’)

Finland: Hasselman, Grönlund, Hiektakangas, Kumpu (C), Salmivuouri, Eloluoto, Tiitinen, Velasquez, Onuoha, Lehtomäki, Siren. Substitutes: Kulmala, Wimmer, Okungbowa, Myntti, Karppelin, Puhakainen, Puputti, Palmula, Wik, Rantasalmi, Töllinen

Referee: Jose Francisco (Spain)

International Friendly Result/Fixture (kick-offs are Irish time)

Wednesday, February 12 | Ireland MU17 0-3 Finland MU17
Saturday, February 15 | Hungary MU17 v Ireland MU17, Oliva Nova, Spain, KO 11am