U14 SBYL
Larne 9-0 Civil Service
Larne took a bit of time to get used to playing in difficult conditions at Mallusk against Civil Service, with several new players coming into the team adding a level of unfamiliarity to the side.
Once the midfield clicked they were unstoppable, playing some exceptional football and defence splitting passes, creating a number of chances in the first half.
Abigail was a constant threat down the wing and was rewarded with two goals in quick succession. Ella also bullied the opposition backline with her pace and battled for every ball, which helped Abigail complete her hat-trick towards the end of the first half.
Throughout the first period of play, Erica also performed well in left wing and created a few chances for herself.
In the second half, the team found themselves having more time on the ball and Sophie M, Alyssa and Lisa played some great passes which helped Ellie create more chances down the left wing.
The Inver Reds’ defence looked solid for the entire game and limited any chances for the opposition. Overall, an excellent team performance in difficult conditions from Larne.
U17
Larne 1-3 Comber Rec
The Inver Reds made a positive start to the first half, playing good football and making Comber work hard. Larne’s coaches felt that the team could have easily scored a few goals during the first period, but a fine performance by the opposition goalkeeper prevented the deadlock from being broken in Larne’s favour.
As Comber grew into the game, Larne defended well and Nikita made a few good stops before a fast counter attack resulted in the opposition striker being played through and slotting home to make it 1-0.
Heading into the second half, Larne made several changes which disrupted the flow for a few minutes before kicking into gear again. Playing some attractive football, a great clearance by Zara was directed to Dee who turned sharply to feed Alix on the run. Alix’s initial effort was saved well by the Comber goalkeeper, but the player was first to react and slotted home the rebound to level the score.
The Inver Reds continued to have most of the play throughout the second half, but just couldn’t find a way to turn dominance into goals and claim the lead. Scoring two goals in quick succession, Comber quickly found themselves with a 3-1 lead with five minutes to play.
Despite taking the knock of conceding two goals quickly, Larne still battled until the end and can take positives from some of the excellent passing play put together in phases throughout the game.
U11
Larne VS Rosario
Rosario started the game faster this past weekend, but Larne quickly improved their play and began to control the game. The team created lots of chances but were unable to hit the target and make their pressure count over the opposition.
Making Larne pay for their missed chances, Rosario’s striker latched on to a long ball forward, finishing the chance to give the opposition a 1-0 lead going into the half-time break.
Following some tough words at the break, Larne quickly regained their control at the beginning of the second half and levelled the game following a well taken effort by Ava. From there it was one way traffic and it seemed like a matter of time before the Inver Reds took the lead.
The lead came when Emmie got herself into a great position to fire home from close range. To seal the win, Roxy scored the team’s third with a speculative effort to secure a comfortable victory overall.
U10 SBYL
Larne VS Bloomfield A
Larne’s U10s put an excellent display together this past weekend, taking home a well-deserved win for their efforts despite having no goalkeeper available for the game.
Amelia and Poppy both displayed excellent character by stepping up and doing a half each between the sticks, both making excellent saves when called upon. Outfield, every single player won their individual battles across the pitch and the team found themselves two goals up, scored by Anna and Casey.l
Bloomfield managed to pull a goal back and despite Larne hitting the woodwork several time, the match hung in the balance right until the end. The girls managed to hold out in the end, taking home a deserved victory.
