A goal inside the opening five minutes was enough to lead the Republic of Ireland Women's Under-16s to a 1-0 victory away to Wales in Dragon Park, Newport.

This was the first of two international friendly games for Tom Elmes's squad and they made the most of it with striker Joy Ralph pouncing to fire them ahead early on.

Ralph, who has been outstanding for DLR Waves in the EA SPORTS Women's National Under-19 League this season, latched onto a pass from Katie Lawlee before cooly converting.

The goalscorer was one of six players in Elmes's panel to have featured in the Ireland WU17 squad recently, so there was no sign of nerves as they set about seizing control of the game.

Substitute Ruby Gallagher went close from a free-kick just outside the box after a great run down the wing from Lia O’Leary. It was a good move by Ireland.

O'Leary was a constant threat on the flank, creating plenty of chances but the Girls in Green just couldn’t get anyone on the end of the opportunities that piled up.

The teams will meet again on Monday, with WU17 Head Coach James Scott taking charge as Elmes links up with the Ireland WNT in his role as Assistant Coach.

Wales: Sofia Kelly; Callie Jones, Lauren Davies, Katie Williams, Elena Cole, Ruby Hamed-Jones, Annie Small, Shurima Vine, Casi Evans, Mared Griffiths, Casi Gregson.

Republic of Ireland: Katie Keane; Skye Corcoran (Ellen Dolan 52), Anna Cantwell, Heidi Macken (Jill Giles 58), Alice Lille (Niamh Tyrrell 67); Jess Fitzgerald (Ruby Gallagher 58), Aoife Kelly (Grace Flanagan 52); Katie Lawlee (Isabelle Fitzpatrick), Jodie Loughrey, Lia O'Leary; Joy Ralph (MiaMcGonnell 52).

Referee: Ieuan Lewis.