NI Cup Semi Final beckons for LGS U14 footballers.
What a performance from the U14s who showed true grit and determination to reach the last 4 of the NI Schools’ Cup by beating a skilful Omagh CBS side 3-0.
The first half started with LGS on the front foot, chasing and closing every ball and playing some penetrating through balls that just escaped the runners. One of these beautiful through balls eventually found their man with Norrie running in behind on goal. He was taken down with the ref pointing to the spot. Norrie calmy slotting home the penalty to take a one nil lead. Omagh began to find their rhythm and two injury forced subs disrupted the LGS momentum with one of the injuries effecting the LGS keeper. This gave the Omagh side added impetus to test out the sub keeper. After a few near misses and a superb clearance off the line by Liam, the sub keeper, Jack H, soon settled into the game making some great decisions to calmly collect the ball after a testing period of play by Omagh. However the 2nd goal of the match was to come from Limavady purely down to the relentless work rate by the whole team pressing high up as a unit, with Jack M putting pressure on the Omagh centre half when trying to play out, which Jack pounced on, winning the ball for LGS to counter and deliver a pin point cross into the box for Norrie to head home his second giving LGS a well deserved two nil lead going into half time.
The boys knew the 2nd half would be tough as Omagh now had the wind with them and they utilised this to their advantage. However, the defence remained resolute and solid showcasing their excellent defensive skills and organisation throughout the 2nd half pressure that came their way. Jack H made a crucial save with the score at two nil, tipping a vicious shot onto the post. This sublime save galvanised the rest of the team who upped their effort for the remaining minutes, countering with added effort. This effort was rewarded with a 2nd penalty, which put the game to bed as Jack M slotted home the ball.
Huge congratulations to the whole squad for their outstanding efforts in testing conditions and good luck to the side as they prepare for the semi-final of this prestigious competition.