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Northend Colts 4 Larne Youth Colts 2 Friday 28th November 2025

In icy, energy-sapping conditions at Crumlin Playing Fields, Northend Colts produced a gritty, hard-working performance to overcome a determined Larne side 4–2, showing impressive teamwork, concentration and composure throughout.

The opening exchanges were tight, with few clear chances for either team. Northend were kept level thanks to two sharp early saves from Harrison, while Bobby marshalled the defence superbly, highlighted by a commanding headed clearance that set the tone for the back line.

Northend’s breakthrough came after strong midfield play from Daryn-Shae and JJ Dunlop, whose link-up released Gabriel. He surged forward on a confident solo run and finished with real class to make it 1–0. Minutes later, Matei battled superbly in midfield to win possession and thread a ball to the speedy Noah Wright, who unselfishly squared to Gabriel, forcing an excellent save from the Larne goalkeeper.

The second goal arrived from a well-worked corner: Gabriel delivered a pinpoint curling ball into the box, where Daryn-Shae powered home from close range for 2–0.

Larne responded strongly, pushing forward and creating pressure, but full-backs James McGroggan and incessant Noah McAleese showed outstanding resilience to shut down numerous attacks. Just before the break, a brief lapse allowed Larne to slip through; the resulting shot took a deflection on its way toward Harrison, ending in a scrappy goal that made it 2–1 at halftime .Half time 2-1

Northend regrouped with a few positional tweaks, and their second-half focus was evident. With JJ Dunlop drifting wider, spaces opened centrally, allowing Daryn-Shae and Gabriel to influence the game even more. Hard work from McAleese and Matei led to a loose ball reaching Gabriel, whose through-pass sent Daryn-Shae clear to restore a two-goal cushion at 3–1.

Gabriel—whose close control was exceptional all evening—combined again with Daryn-Shae for the fourth. A sharp piece of skill opened the space, and Daryn-Shae finished clinically to seal his hat-trick and make it 4–1.

Noah Cawley entered the fray to reinforce midfield stability, making key blocks as Larne pushed numbers forward. The visitors switched to a front three in the closing minutes and, after a flurry of corners and further brave defending from Harrison and his back line, Larne forced a late consolation to finish 4–2.

There was late drama as James McGroggan took a heavy blow to the face, with Matei briefly reintroduced. True to the grit shown across the squad, McGroggan soon demanded to return and helped see out the match with determination.

Despite freezing temperatures, every Northend player displayed tireless work ethic, securing a deserved and hard-earned victory on a chilly evening, well past their bed-time! Full time 4-2

Every single player gave everything and it was a fantastic all-round performance. Well done to each and every one of the boys.

Colts Panel: Harrison Moore, Gabriel McQuillan, Myles Hardy, Daryn-Shae Brett, James Rea, J-J Dunlop, Noah Wright, Bobby Millar, James McGroggan, Kavan Kerr, Daniel McNeilly, Dara Butcher. Noah McAleese, Matei Barbei, Noah Cawley

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Northend Colts 3 Clonduff Colts 1 Friday 24th October 2025

Colts Panel: Harrison Moore, Gabriel McQuillan, Myles Hardy, Daryn-Shae Brett, James Rea, J-J Dunlop, Noah Wright, Bobby Millar, James McGroggan, Kavan Kerr, Daniel McNeilly, Dara Butcher

Northend Colts 7 Ards FC Academy Colts 1 Saturday 18th October 2025

Northend United Colts delivered one of their best performances of the season at Mallusk, running out emphatic 7–1 winners against Ards Academy Colts. From the very first whistle, the boys were full of energy and confidence, moving the ball with real purpose and pressing hard all over the pitch.

The opening goal came after just six minutes when JJ reacted quickest inside the box to slot home and give Northend a deserved lead. Moments later, Dara produced a moment of real quality with an outside-of-the-boot pass that sliced open the defence, sending Gabriel through to finish superbly for 2–0. Captain Daryn-Shae then stepped up to curl a stunning free kick into the top corner, putting the Colts firmly in control at the break. Half Time 3 - 0

Gabriel picked up where he left off after the restart, breaking away to score early in the second half before adding another moments later with brilliant skill and a composed finish to complete his hat-trick. Ards managed to pull one back, but the Colts responded instantly — Daryn-Shae powered through on the counterattack to restore the lead, and Dara rounded off a fine performance with a strong solo run and finish to seal a 7–1 victory.

It was a fantastic all-round display full of teamwork, skill, and confidence. Dara, Daryn-Shae, and Gabriel were standouts, with Gabriel’s hat-trick earning him a well-deserved Man of the Match award.

At the back, Bobby and Myles were absolute rocks, reading the game brilliantly and clearing any danger that came their way. The two James’ alongside them showed great composure and calmness in defence, playing out confidently and keeping things organised. Behind them, Harrison was composed and dependable in goal, dealing with everything that came his way. Noah Wright was a constant threat down the right wing, stretching play and causing problems for the Ards defence with his pace and direct running. Daniel slotted in naturally on the left side of midfield, working hard both ways and linking up well with his teammates. Cavan and J-J had energy in midfield, pressing the defence and showing attacking intent throughout.

Every player played their part in what was a complete and confident team performance — another big step forward for this talented group. Full time 7-1

Player of the Match:: Gabriel McQuillan - a classy hat-rick winning Gabe the award

Colts Panel: Harrison Moore, Gabriel McQuillan, Myles Hardy, Daryn-Shae Brett, James Rea, J-J Dunlop, Noah Wright, Bobby Millar, James McGroggan, Kavan Kerr, Daniel McNeilly, Dara Butcher

Northend Utd Colts 1-2 Newhill FC Sunday 28th September

In their second league game of the season, Northend United 2015s faced Newhill FC and were narrowly defeated 2-1. Despite the scoreline, this was a game full of energy, teamwork, and determination. The boys created a flurry of chances, hit the woodwork twice, and put together some of their best football yet — a performance to be proud of.

The opening stages were evenly matched, with both teams playing exciting football and battling hard. Northend showed great composure in possession, moving the ball confidently through midfield. Captain Daryn-Shae led by example, pressing high and unleashing a series of powerful long-range efforts that kept the Newhill keeper busy.

At the back, Myles was a wall in defence, stopping everything that came his way. Harrison pulled off a top-class save midway through the half, diving low to his corner to keep the scores level. However, just minutes later, Newhill capitalised on a counter-attack and tucked away a well-taken goal. A close offside call, but we played on.

Northend responded brilliantly. With JJ and Myles solid at the back, it allowed Bobby to step into midfield where he combined well with Kavan to help regain control. The breakthrough came just before the whistle — debutant Daniel made an instant impact, winning the ball and feeding Gabriel, who made no mistake with a cool finish. 1-1 at half-time. Half time 1-1

Northend came out flying, dominating possession and creating chance after chance. Gabriel was relentless up front, going close on multiple occasions — including a brilliant turn and shot that rattled the crossbar. But football can be cruel — against the run of play, Newhill pounced on a loose ball in midfield and hit a speculative effort that found the net. A harsh blow, but the boys didn’t let their heads drop.

With Noah and Conan giving width and stretching the play, the team piled on the pressure. Corners, shots, and clever combinations came thick and fast, but the Newhill goalkeeper — and the post — stood firm. Despite a late push, time ran out before Northend could find a deserved equaliser. Full time 1-2

Player of the Match: Myles Hardy - was a rock in defence, will every ball that came down his side

Panel: Harrison Moore, Matei Barbu, Gabriel McQuillan, Myles Hardy, Daryn-Shae Brett, James Rea, J-J Dunlop, Conan O'Neill, Noah Wright, Noah Crawley, Bobby Millar, James McGroggan, Kavan Kerr, Daniel McNeilly

Northend Colts 4 Wellington Rec 1 Sunday 21st September 2025

Our first league game back after the summer break saw the Colts step into 9-a-side football for the very first time – and what a start it was! The boys rose to the challenge with a confident and composed performance, coming from behind to secure a 4-1 win away to Wellington Rec.

The opening 10 minutes were evenly contested as both teams found their rhythm. Wellington took the lead with a well-taken goal, although there was a suggestion of offside in the build-up. That didn’t deter the Colts – in fact, it seemed to spark them into life.

Led by a determined captain Daryn-Shae, our midfield began to dominate. Gabriel was stretching the defence well up front, and Harrison stood strong in goals, making confident saves and commanding his area on corners and set pieces.

The pressure paid off before half-time when Daryn-Shae bulldozed his way through the Wellington defence and coolly slotted the equaliser into the bottom corner. Half time 1-1

The Colts picked up right where they left off. With a strong defensive line of Bobby, Myles, and Kavan giving a solid platform, the midfield began to move the ball smartly and quickly.

The breakthrough came from a moment of individual brilliance by Gabriel, smashing a long-range strike into the top corner to make it 2-1. Moments later, Noah Wright showed great energy and strength in midfield, driving down the right before slipping Gabriel through. Gabriel’s powerful shot forced a save, and Daryn-Shae reacted first to finish from the rebound. 3-1 to the Colts.

Confidence was flowing now, and a fantastic solo effort from Kavan, weaving past defenders and calmly finishing, made it 4-1. In the final minutes, Wellington pushed to get back into the game. A reshuffled Colts defence of JJ, James, and Noah stayed strong and showed great determination to see the game out. Full time 4-1

A brilliant team performance and a fantastic way to start the season.

Player of the Match: Harrison - some fantastic saves as well a confidence dealing with set plays. Great start to the season Harrison

Colts Panel - Harrison Moore, Noah Wright, Conan O’Neill, Kavan Kerr, James Rea, Bobby Millar, JJ Dunlop, Daryn-Sháe Brett, Myles Hardy, Noah Cawley, Gabriel McQuillan, James McGroggan