“Proud” moment for Smith

COLERAINE Youths manager Marty Smith admits today’s win in the UEFA Youth League will live long in the memory…

The Bannsiders became the first team from Northern Ireland to progress in the competition as they drew 2-2 in North Macedonia, winning 5-4 on aggregate.

Smith remarked that it was a game of two halves as the Stripes trailed at the break but an inspired second-half performance allowed them to score twice through Luke Kelly and Rory Moffatt.

The boss admitted he has grown a few grey hairs after Pobeda levelled on the day from the spot but spoke of his pride at how his side held firm.

Smith was also thankful to the club for their support and to the parents who made the trip to North Macedonia.

Despite an upcoming tie against Genk on the horizon, Smith insists full focus will be on the U20’s game against Larne on Monday night.