Keane edge helps Ireland hold highly rated Spain

Athlone Town goalkeeper Katie Keane played a starring role as the Republic of Ireland women's under-19 team began their UEFA European Championships campaign with a creditable 0-0 draw against holders Spain.

Meath native Keane made 12 saves over the course of the 90 minutes as the Group B clash finished level at the Futbolo Stadionas Marijampolėje in Lithuania today (Monday).

Spain had 29 shots at goal in total with Dave Connell's side failing to register a single effort as they focused on securing a point.

Keane is one of three Athlone Town players in the Ireland squad, along with Hazel Donegan from Athlone and defender Mary Phillips. Laois native Phillips was introduced as a substitute against Spain.

In addition to being the holders of the European U19 crown, the Spanish senior women's team are the current World Cup holders, having defeated England in last year's final.

This is just the second time that the Ireland have competed in the U19 tournament and the first since 2014 when they reached the semi-finals.

Ireland face Germany in their next game on Thursday before the final group match with the Netherlands on Sunday, with both games kicking off at 12.00.

Ireland: Katie Keane; Meabh Russell, Kate Thompson, Eve Dossen, Aoife Kelly, Jodie Loughrey; Jess Fitzgerald, Sophie Morrin; Ellen Dolan, Joy Ralph, Lia O'Leary. Subs used: Hannah Healy for Fitzgerald (65 mins), Mary Phillips for Morrin (78), Rola Olusola for Ralph (87).

Spain: Eunate Astralaga; Noemi, Aicha Camara, Adriana Ranera, Judit Pujois; Ainhoa Alguacll, Daniela Arques, Cris Libran; Daniela Agote, Barbara Lopez, Pau. Subs used: Intza Eguiguren for Lopez (46 mins), Pau Rubio for Noemi (75), Marisa for Agote (75), Raquel Gil Villar for Pau (84).

Referee: Michalina Diakow (Poland).