THE young Bannsiders got their SuperCupNI campaign under way with a strong performance and a deserved 1–0 win over Shankill Juniors at the Coleraine Showgrounds…
Coleraine dominated much of the first half, enjoying long spells of possession and creating several clear-cut chances. Josh Adams and Norrie Stewart both came close early on, while Ty McConaghy and Joe Gray provided excellent width, repeatedly delivering dangerous crosses into the box.
The best effort of the half came when Cahir Carton met a pinpoint delivery from Ty, his powerful header just missing the target. Despite the pressure, the first half ended 0–0.
Dylan McIlroy and Conan McKeever marshalled the defence superbly throughout, keeping Shankill’s attacking threats to a minimum and showing composure under pressure.
The second-half began with a slower tempo from Coleraine, prompting a double substitution at the 40-minute mark. Cahan O’Kane and Josh Adams brought renewed energy and composure in midfield, linking up well with Norrie Stewart and Joe Gray to maintain the attacking momentum.
Callum Parke had a good opportunity after a clever dummy in the box but couldn’t find the finish. As the pressure continued to build, more changes were made, and finally, in the 50th minute, the breakthrough arrived. Josh Adams finished clinically into the bottom corner from 12 yards after a well-worked team move.
Further substitutions followed, and the full squad showed great maturity in managing the closing stages of the match. It was a complete team effort, with all 17 players playing their part in an encouraging start to the tournament.
Credit to Shankill Juniors for a competitive game and best wishes to them for the rest of the week.
Thank you to all the parents and supporters who turned out to cheer on the team. A tough but enjoyable week of football lies ahead for this determined group.
STARTING XI: Harry McBride, Christy Moore, Ty McConaghy, Dylan McIlroy, Harry Blair, Josh Adams, Conan McKeever, Cahir Carton, Norrie Stewart. Joe Gray, Conor Kelly.
Substitutes: Harry Hunt, Callum Parke. Eoin McAleese, Corey O’Neill, Cahan O’Kane, Daniel Caskey.