Northern Ireland U15 Cup

Newtownabbey CHS v Rathfriland High

Blanchflower Stadium Belfast, 1st April 2009

The Under 15 team suffered heartbreak in the final of the Northern Ireland Cup as a goal 10 minutes from time meant that the trophy went to the County Down school. The game was a tight affair played in front of a large crowd at the Blanchflower Stadium in East Belfast with both teams competing for every ball. Jim Vance playing in the lone striker role worked tirelessly and will count himself unlucky not to get on the score sheet as he came close on a number of occasions.  Rathfriland did threaten on a few occasions in the first half but found Cory McLoughlin in inspired form with a number of super saves. Jordan Woolway also had a good opportunity prior to half time but he was unable to beat the keeper. A strong penalty appeal against the Rathfriland defence for hand ball was turned down by the referee just before half time.

Half time 0-0

Newtownabbey created what was to be their best chance of the game through Jim Vance 5 minutes into the second half, with the goalkeeper stranded his shot just glanced the cross bar. A few more chances from either team resulted in nothing and the game looked destined to go to extra time until 10 minutes from time when a long ball into the box was slammed home by the Rathfriland right winger. Newtownabbey immediately responded and a few free kicks caused havoc and they looked liked getting back into the game when James Hollywood skipped past the Rathfriland defence before being fouled inside the box. To the surprise of the crowd the referee awarded a free kick outside the box. Rathfriland cleared the danger and held onto to win the cup. The boys can be proud of their display as they deserved to get something out of the game.

Full time 0-1

Newtownabbey CHS: McLoughlin, Boyd, Shearer, Barrow, Crawford, McManus, Bassett, Hollywood, Woolway, Deans, Vance

Subs: Lee, McGregor, Perry, Withers, Bright