Hughes' Irish Dream Is Over

2nd September 2006

Jeff Hughes' dream of playing a further part in the European Under-21 Championships ended last night as Northern Ireland's Under-21 side were eliminated from the tournament.

Northern Ireland required at least a victory to keep their qualifications hopes alive. Sadly, a Hughes' error gifted Germany Under-21 the opening goal in the 13th minute. The goal was scored by Roberto Hilbert.

Patrick Helmes made it 2-0 to Germany in the 35th minute and it seemed that the tie was beyond hope in the 65th minute when Trochowski scored a spectacular third from 30-yards out.

To their credit, Northern Under-21 side continued to battle for respectability and gained their reward via two late goals. The first was scored by Dean Shiels from the penalty spot while Thomas Steward the scored the second.

This was Hughes' seventh appearance for the Northern Ireland Under-21 side.

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