U12
Larne U12s put on a fantastic display against Barn United this weekend, scoring six goals to secure some minutes on the legs for the players. While Barn’s team offered a more physically dominant presence, it was Larne’s technical ability and accurate passing which controlled the game throughout.
The first half saw Larne apply pressure from midfield and attack, leading to confusion across the Barn defence which was capitalised on by Gracie, Sofia and Orla who scored a goal each to give the team a 3-1 lead at the break.
Following some changes at half-time, the team didn’t allow their performance to drop. While flourishing in attack, Mia and the rest of the defence remained solid, doing their jobs well when called upon. Barn’s goalkeeper also put in an excellent display, making a string of fine saves before Sofia scored a second goal. The Larne goals were rounded off by Avanah, who scored a brace to make it six – one pure power and one expertly finished into the bottom corner. Overall, a fantastic team performance.
Player(s) of the Match: Bella McCambridge and India Wilson
Team of the Week nominations: Bella McCambridge and India Wilson
SBYL U13
Larne U13s undertook a hard-fought battle against a strong St. Oliver Plunkett side this weekend. It was the opposition who took the lead in the first half, before the Inver Reds struck back almost immediately with Gemma slotting past the goalkeeper to make it 1-1.
In the second half, both teams had their chances but neither could get their noses in front to claim a win, thanks mainly to excellent displays from goalkeepers. Overall, a draw was a fair result and the team can go back to the training pitch with positives and negatives to work on and improve.
Player(s) of the Match: Macy Brennan
Team of the Week Nominations: Gemma Stranney and Macy Brennan
SBYL U10
A late change in opposition saw the girls take on Sandy Row in a friendly game on Saturday morning. Controlling the game from the start with their passing, the young Inver Reds made the best use of the space across the pitch and went on to play the game comfortably. A special mention must go to Poppy Stewart and Catherine Irvine, who were playing only their second game at SBYL U10 level and acquitted themselves with great performances.
Player(s) of the Match – Poppy Stewart and Catherine Irvine
U17
A slow start to both halves during this past weekend’s game proved costly for Larne, who were defeated 3-0 by Crusaders U17s. It was mid-way through the first half before the passing and movement that had been worked on in training began to come together, with chances created for Dee, Rachael and Mia alongside further chances from long range.
Scoreless at the break, Crusaders started faster in the second half and caught the Larne team napping. Despite this, Alix performed fantastically in goal and was only beaten by a rebound following an excellent save from a Crues free-kick. Following the goal, Larne heads dropped slightly and Crusaders took full advantage, adding a second and a third before full-time.
Result: Crusaders 3-0 Larne
Player(s) of the Match – Alix Wilson and Mia O’Flaherty
Team of the Week nominations: Alix Wilson and Mia O’Flaherty
