Academy players a credit to the club

The FINAL day of the SupercupNI experience ended in defeat but not disappointment for the Under 13 players and staff…

In a closely contested Bowl final, Portadown ran out winners by two goals to one. Coleraine were dealt an early blow when top scorer Danny Smyth was ruled out due to illness, however it was the Bannsiders who took the lead with an excellent finish from Tommy Rogers following a pin point delivery from a Sean Gault free kick.

The Ports hit back in the second half with two goals and despite continued Coleraine pressure, an equaliser could not be found. This Coleraine team have come a long way in the 10 weeks since the squad started training together. The boys have improved technically and tactically as individuals and as a team over this period and their performances throughout the tournament have shown that they can compete with the best in the country.

What is even more impressive is that the Coleraine squad was the youngest team in the Minor Section, with seven of the 18 man squad playing a year up. These boys stepped up to the mark and their experiences this year will stand them in good stead when they compete in the Supercup again next summer.

Head coach John Gregg praised all his players at the end of the tournament, emphasising their development as young footballers, their work rate throughout the week, their determination to succeed, their team spirit, and their willingness to listen, learn and improve their game.

The players have been a credit to Coleraine FC both on and off the pitch right throughout the week with the boys doing everything their coaches asked of them. Many thanks to all the local businesses who supported the team especially Bob and Berts, The Anchorage, Lemontree, Joey’s Bar and Halliday’s of Bushmills. Thanks also to Lyndon Kane for his support and encouragement during the week.

Man of the Match, Day 1: Harvey McLean Man of the Match, Day 2: Tommy Rogers Man of the Match, Day 3: Luke Dennison Man of the Match, Day 4: Danny Smyth Man of the Match, Day 5: Jude McIntyre