Ireland's first appearance in the UEFA Under 17 Championships since 2008 began with a scoreless draw against the Netherlands this afternoon in Bulgaria.

Tom Mohan's side will be delighted to start the tournament with a point, with tough games to come against reigning chmapions England and Italy in Group D.

Substitute Jamie Aherne and striker Connor Ronan both hit the woodwork in a promising secind half performance for the Irish side.

Ireland's next match is on Sunday afternoon against Italy at 1pm

Italy and England play later today in Group D's second game.

85' In the last seconds @ConnorRonan10 slipped in Clarke but keeper Bijlow out to save. Full-time whistle blows 0-0 #IrlU17 #COYBIG

— FAI (@FAIreland) May 7, 2015

Teams confirmed Ireland-Netherlands UEFA U17 Finals #IrlU17 #COYBIG pic.twitter.com/8Hnnvt0DPD

— FAI (@FAIreland) May 7, 2015