The Irish lads won in England for the first time in the competition’s history, some 80 years, and they can now win the tournament if they beat Wales in two weeks’ time.
Jersey was mentioned several timesby Sky Television commentators last night before Cory Evans popped up to score a last-gasp winner at Chester.
Herbie Barr, Chairman of Northern Ireland’s Schools’ FA and who officiated two matches against Jersey youth teams at Springfield last month, said: ‘It was a brilliant night for us and an unbelievable result.
‘It was like reliving the senior teams success when they defeated England in their World Cup qualifier at Windsor Park on 7 September.
‘Without doubt our success last night was down to the preparation we had in Jersey.
It was invaluable to us and I’m so delighted for the team and the management.
They’ve put so much work into it and the four days we had in Jersey was an excellent bonding for everyone.
‘The last ten minutes I was thinking if we get a draw here it will be a great result.
Then I thought we’ve lost games in the final ten minutes before too so when we scored I was extremely happy.
‘Sky Television has really upped the anti this year by sponsoring the tournament., it really is high profile now.
‘We’ll enjoy our success and then we’ll concentrate on the big ask, winning in Wales.
Victory for either team will win them the Victory Shield.
‘I’m sure the competition will be keen and I’m sure it’s going to be a great night for schoolboys’ football.’ Wales host Northern Ireland on Thursday 17 November, a game that will again be televised by Sky Television.
Jersey’s matches against Northern Ireland were arranged by Sporting Eventualities.
