Our U16 football team has enjoyed a remarkable season full of determination, teamwork, and moments of brilliance. From impressive victories to hard-fought draws and narrow defeats, the boys have represented our school with pride and passion.
NI Cup Journey: A Rollercoaster of Emotion
After receiving a bye in the first round of the NI Cup, our U16s delivered a spirited performance in their second-round match against Glengormley Integrated College. Despite falling behind 1-0 early on, the team showed resilience and character. Luke levelled the score with a composed finish before Michael slotted home following excellent build-up play from Conor and Joe O’K. A third goal from Luke sealed a 3-1 win, with special credit to goalkeeper Harry, who made several outstanding saves to preserve the lead.
Confidence was high heading into the Last 16 clash with St. Colm’s, Twinbrook. Our boys dominated possession and came close on numerous occasions—hitting the woodwork and forcing top saves from the opposition keeper. Unfortunately, it wasn’t to be our day, and despite the performance, we bowed out of the NI Cup with a narrow 1-0 defeat.
Coleraine & District League: A Story of Resilience and Determination
Our C&D League campaign kicked off in style with a convincing 2-0 victory over local rivals CGS. After a goalless first half, Callum broke the deadlock with a stunning long-range strike. Luke followed up with a powerful run and finish to double the lead. James O and James T also came close to scoring, but the post and a deflection denied them.
The momentum continued with a thrilling 3-2 win over LHS in the Limavady derby. Michael opened the scoring, but LHS responded with two quick goals after the break. However, our boys dug deep, and Harry levelled before sealing the win with a difficult shot under challenging light conditions. A great showcase of local talent and sportsmanship from both teams.
Our next test came just a day later against last year’s League winners, Cookstown. Despite going 1-0 down early, the boys fought back through goals from Harry and a penalty by captain Luke. Cookstown struck twice again after halftime, but sheer determination and a moment of individual brilliance from Luke earned us a hard-fought 3-3 draw. Special mention to Michael B, named Man of the Match for his commanding midfield performance.
The final group stage match saw us face St. Pat’s Maghera. In a tightly contested game, Harry P scored the decisive goal. Cailean G was named Man of the Match for his outstanding all-round display, helping us secure a 1-0 win and a well-deserved place in the semi-finals.
Semi-Final Drama: Nerves of Steel
Facing Dominican College in the semi-finals, the game was a tense affair, ending in a draw after normal time. The pressure was on as the match headed to penalties. Up stepped goalkeeper Harry T—who delivered a Man of the Match performance, making three incredible saves in the shootout to help secure our spot in the final. A superb end to a memorable game.
League Final: A Brave Battle at Coleraine Showgrounds
The stage was set at Coleraine Showgrounds as our U16 team faced last year’s champions, Cookstown High School, in what proved to be a tense and hard-fought league final.
Nerves were evident in the opening minutes, and Cookstown capitalised early with two quick goals that put us on the back foot. However, our boys showed great resilience and character, settling into the game and gradually taking control of the midfield. Their composure and teamwork helped stabilise the match and shift the momentum in our favour.
The second half turned into a scrappy contest, with both teams creating chances but struggling to convert. As tired legs began to show across the pitch, it was our defence that came under pressure. Yet, in the closing stages, a moment of brilliance gave us hope—centre back Joe launched a long throw from the touchline deep into the Cookstown box. Midfielder Michael met it with a stunning half-volley, sending the ball rifling past the keeper to bring the score to 2-1.
Despite a spirited push in the final minutes, we were unable to find another breakthrough. Cookstown’s defence held firm, and the match ended 2-1 in their favour.
This season has been a testament to the talent, spirit, and determination of our U16 squad. From last-minute equalisers to penalty shootout heroics, our boys have shown exactly what it means to wear the school crest with pride. We look forward with excitement to next season, and no matter the result, the team has already made us incredibly proud.