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Northend United 0 St Oliver Plunketts 3 Saturday 18th April 2026

Northend United U13s took to the pitch at the Olympia Leisure Centre for this semi-final clash against St Oliver Plunkett FC, hoping to continue to the final in what has been a strong and successful season overall. However, from the early stages, it became clear this was going to be a difficult afternoon.

The energy and sharpness that usually define this Northend side just weren't there St Oliver Plunkett started the brighter of the two teams, putting pressure on early and forcing Northend into mistakes.

The opening goal came under controversial circumstances. It appeared that the attacker was in an offside position in the build-up, but play continued. A cross was then delivered into the top corner by a strong gust of wind, the ball looped awkwardly into the net. It was a tough one to take, and it seemed to knock the confidence of the Northend players.

From that point on in the first half, Northend struggled to find any real rhythm. Passes that would normally be simple were misplaced, and the team found themselves giving the ball away far too easily. There was a sense of panic creeping into the play, with players rushing decisions rather than settling on the ball.

Despite this, the team went into half-time without making any changes, but it was clear that improvement was needed. Half time 0-1

The second half began much like the first had ended. Northend were still finding it difficult to keep possession, and defensive discipline started to slip, with runners not being tracked and space opening up for the opposition.

St Oliver Plunkett continued to press and were rewarded with a second goal that summed up the nature of the game.

A simple toe poke effort, which could have gone anywhere, somehow found its way into the top corner-another moment where luck just wasn't on Northend's side.

At 2-0 down, Northend tried to respond and did show glimpses of their quality, but consistency was missing.

The final goal of the game was the standout moment from St Oliver Plunkett, as they put together a well-worked team move that ended with a composed finish. It was the one goal that fully reflected their attacking play on the day. Full time 0-3

To their credit, Northend United U13s never stopped trying and continued to battle right until the final whistle. However, it just wasn't their day, and the final scoreline of 0-3 perhaps gives a slightly harsh reflection of the game.

While St Oliver Plunkett deserved the win, the margin of victory arguably flatters them given the circumstances and the type of goals conceded.

Despite the disappointment of the result, this match does not define what has been a very positive season for Northend United U13s.

There have been far more highs than lows, and the progress, effort, and development shown by the squad over the course of the year should not be overlooked.

Attention now turns to the next challenge, with the Foyle Cup on the horizon, as well as preparations for the upcoming season.

With the right attitude and a strong response, there's no doubt this group will bounce back and continue to improve.

Player of the Match: Oran Fox - tackling and defensive work was at a high level today

United Panel: Alastair Doyle, Alphie Woodhouse, Conor Best, Conal Devlin, Conan Goodall, Noah McGarry, Fionn McGarry, James McConaghy, Jack Curry, Oisin Walker, Oran Fox, Ronan Campbell, Michael Killough

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Northend United 5 Ards FC Academy 1 Friday 10th April 2026

Northend United 2013 finished their league campaign in style under the lights at Paisley Park on Friday night, producing a dominant performance despite miserable conditions and zero substitutes. The boys comfortably secured top spot, finishing 13 points clear with an outstanding goal difference of +57.

Playing against a very strong wind in the first half, Northend showed real maturity. They kept the ball on the ground and moved it superbly. The defence were calm and composed in possession, playing lovely passes into midfield and forward areas while offering safe options as needed.

Despite controlling the early stages, Northend went behind against the run of play. A through ball from Ards wasn't fully cleared and their striker reacted quickest to the rebound, firing past Ally into the corner of the net. 0-1

Ards continued to look for long balls over the top, trying to use their pace in behind. While they did cause moments of concern, Northend's defence dealt with the danger well, remaining organised, stepping across intelligently and clearing their lines.

Northend responded immediately and deservedly equalised with the next attack. Conal received the ball in midfield, spotted Fionn's run and delivered a perfectly weighted through ball. Fionn took it first time, calmly passing the ball into the bottom corner beyond the keeper. 1-1

The boys in blue then turned up the pressure, giving Ards no time on the ball and winning possession high up the pitch. The midfield linked up superbly and switched play intelligently to create space. Another excellent move saw Fionn drop short to receive, causing problems for the Ards defence. He slid Alphie through on goal, who took a composed touch before finishing neatly into the bottom corner. 2-1 Northend

Northend were now firmly in control, passing and moving with confidence and energy, making it extremely difficult for Ards to gain any momentum. Whenever possession was lost, the work rate off the ball was much better tonight, quickly winning it back or causing forced errors.

The third goal arrived just before halftime and was a brilliant team effort from back to front. Ally rolled the ball out to Jack, who played into Ronan. The move continued through Conor and into Conal, who switched play out to Oisín. After beating his man, Oisín found Fionn, who laid the ball back at the edge of the box to Conan. From 25 yards, Conan unleashed a stunning strike into the top corner. 3-1 Northend Half time: 3-1

After a quick drink, the message at the break was clear. Keep doing what they were doing, but now use the wind to their advantage and shoot when in range. A few warm-up runs helped keep the boys sharp before the second half began.

Northend continued to dictate the tempo, creating chances and controlling possession. There were several efforts from distance early on, though few truly tested the Ards goalkeeper. While additional scoring opportunities came their way, decision making in the final third wasn't always on point, sometimes passing when a shot was on or shooting when a teammate was better placed.

The fourth goal eventually came from a set piece. Jack delivered an excellent corner to the back post where Fionn met it. His effort struck the post but Conor reacted quickest to turn the rebound into the net. 4-1

The final goal of the match was a real standout moment. Conal played a through ball towards Fionn, but the Ards keeper rushed out and cleared high to the left edge of the box. Alphie produced a sublime first touch to bring the ball down before cutting it back inside to Conor. With superb footwork, Conor glided past his defender and smashed a thunderous strike from the edge of the box into the roof of the net giving the keeper no chance. 5-1

Northend had further chances to add to the scoreline but despite a few missed opportunities, the match ended 5-1. Full time 5-1

Another outstanding performance from this team, who bounced back strongly after a below par showing last week. This marked the final league match of the campaign and the boys can proudly call themselves league champions, having already wrapped up the title with four games to spare.

The future looks bright as they push onwards and upwards next season. Well done, boys!

Player of the Match: Alphie Woodhouse - a constant attacking threat throughout the game and showed great work rate by repeatedly tracking back to support the defence while still having the energy to drive forward and create chances

United Panel: Alastair Doyle, Alphie Woodhouse, Conor Best, Conal Devlin, Conan Goodall, Noah McGarry, Fionn McGarry, Jack Curry, Oisin Walker, Oran Fox, Ronan Campbell

Northend United 1 Cliftonville Ladies 2 Saturday 4th April 2026

Northend United U13s endured a difficult morning as they faced Cliftonville Girls Reds at Marrowbone Millennium Park.

From the warm-up, it was clear that Northend weren’t quite at it. The lack of sharpness and energy during the warmup carried into the game, making it difficult for the boys to switch on, compete and perform at the level we have been accustomed to.

Cliftonville Girls Reds took full advantage, showing more intensity and composure throughout. They moved the ball well, worked hard across the pitch and wanted it more. Ultimately they proved to be the better side on the day.

They went 1 nil up after Northend failed to clear the danger. Northend equalised soon after with a good move to create a chance that Fionn took well.

Ally was called upon multiple times to make important saves which he did well. Cliftonville keeper also made a few important saves. Half time: 1-1

Despite their effort, Northend never really got out of first gear and couldn’t impose themselves on the game. It was one of those days where things just didn’t click for the boys.

Our opponents scored the winner with a great long range effort firing the ball into the top corner from 25 yards giving Ally no chance.

Northend has a few chances to get another equaliser but couldn't capitalize. Cliftonville also had chances on the break to extend their lead but there was no further goals with the match ending 2-1.

Full credit goes to Cliftonville Girls Reds, who fully deserved the result with a solid all-round performance. Full Time: 1-2

Player of the Match: Conal Devlin. He stood out for his work rate and attitude throughout. Encouraging others, always looking to get on the ball and showed great confidence to take players on whenever the opportunity came.

United Panel: Alastair Doyle, Alphie Woodhouse, Conor Best, Conal Devlin, Conan Goodall, Noah McGarry, Fionn McGarry, Jack Curry, James McConaghy, Michael Killough, Oisin Walker, Oran Fox, Ronan Campbell

Northend United 7 Holywood Youth 1 Saturday 28th March 2026

Northend 2013 marched into the league cup Semi Final with an emphatic victory. The boys stepped up from the 3rd Section to the 1st Section for their League Cup tie after being unbeaten in their league campaign all season and showed no signs of being overawed by the challenge. Confidence in the quality of the squad was fully justified as the boys delivered a superb team performance, progressing to the semifinals with a convincing 7-1 victory over Holywood Youth FC at Cherryvale this morning

Northend started the match brightly, taking the initiative from the opening whistle and pinning Holywood back early on. Despite their strong start, it was Holywood who struck first, scoring against the run of play after some good work from their forward line. 0-1

The setback sparked a spirited response from Northend, who had to weather a short spell of sustained pressure. Ally was called into action with a number of excellent saves, while the defence stood firm, making crucial tackles to prevent Holywood from extending their lead.

Northend gradually worked their way back into control and the equaliser arrived after 20 minutes from a corner. Conan swung in a dangerous delivery that caused panic in the Holywood defence, with a defender unfortunately diverting the ball into his own net. 1-1

From that point on, Northend settled into their rhythm and began playing some excellent football despite difficult pitch conditions. Decision making was sharp, off the ball work rate was outstanding and communication across the pitch noticeably improved.

Wave after wave of Northend attacks put Holywood on the back foot. Another corner proved decisive when Conan’s delivery cleared the goalkeeper and crept just inside the back post to give Northend the lead. 2-1

Northend now controlled the game. The defence dealt well with a dangerous Holywood attack that threatened on the break, while the midfield dictated play and the forward line remained a constant menace. No further goals were added before the interval. Halftime: 2-1

Northend came out flying after the restart and were rewarded with an early third goal. Conal skipped past several midfield challenges, as he had done all match, before slipping the ball to Oisín on the edge of the box. One touch was all he needed before curling a brilliant finish past the keeper into the bottom corner. 3-1

A fourth goal followed quickly, again from a wellworked corner routine. Conan played it short to Conal and received it back before delivering an excellent cross to the back post. Conor headed the ball back into the danger area, where Michael saw his initial effort saved but reacted fastest to fire the rebound into the roof of the net. 4-1

Holywood showed how dangerous they can be on the attack throughout but our defence met the danger head on. They tried to reset with a long ball into the Northend half, but Jack worked tirelessly to win possession and flicked the ball on to Fionn who played it on to Conal who was in space. Showing real confidence, Conal controlled well and launched an audacious effort from 25 yards, perfectly lobbing the keeper. 5-1

Northend continued to apply pressure and after Conal was fouled just outside the box following some excellent skill, Conan stepped up to take the freekick. His strike sailed over the wall and dipped into the bottom left corner. 6-1

With only minutes remaining, Oisín had another effort deflected out for a corner. Conan delivered once more, curling an inswinger directly from the corner kick that flew over the keeper and into the back of the net completing his hattrick in style. 7-1

The final whistle confirmed a dominant and deserved victory, sending Northend United into the League Cup semifinals. Full-time: 7-1

With so many standout performances, we found it difficult to choose just one POTM. The awards were therefore shared: A fantastic team effort from every player wearing blue, a performance full of quality, character and confidence showing how much the boys have progressed and developed from the start of the season.

Player of the Match: Conal Devlin: Outstanding skill, attacking quality and relentless work rate all over the pitch

Conan Goodall: A superb hattrick, exceptional deliveries and immense work ethic

Ronan Campbell: A solid, composed and commanding allround defensive display

Northend United 5 Lisburn Rangers Girls 1 Saturday 21st March 2026

Northend United U13s continued their impressive league campaign with a strong 5–1 victory over Lisburn Rangers Girls on a dry and bumpy surface at Hydebank Park.

Despite the pitch conditions, Northend started the brighter of the two sides, creating several good chances early on. Their pressure paid off in the 22nd minute when Michael latched onto a cross from Jack to open the scoring.

Northend quickly built momentum. Michael was again involved, cutting the ball back to Conan whose effort was parried into the path of Fionn, who reacted quickest to make it 2–0. The third goal came from a layoff by Fionn, with Conal finishing well with a low drive into the bottom corner.Half time 3-0

Lisburn Rangers came out stronger in the second half putting Northend under a bit of pressure. However, the response from Northend was excellent, as they began to move the ball quicker and regain control of the game. The fourth goal came when Ronan delivered a great cross, Alphie was on hand at the back post with a looping header that found the back of the net. 4-0

Lisburn Rangers worked hard and managed to pull a goal back before Northend sealed the win with a superb fifth goal. From an Alphie corner, the clearance dropped to Jack, who volleyed it into the top corner in style (no nosebleed needed!)

A solid all-round performance from the boys, especially considering the difficult pitch conditions.Full time 5-1

Northend United’s 100% league record remains intact as they continue their strong run of form

Player of the Match: Jack Curry - He showed strong play great passing and a lovely volley will done Jack

United Panel: Alastair Doyle, Alphie Woodhouse, Conor Best, Conal Devlin, Conan Goodall, Noah McGarry, Fionn McGarry, Jack Curry, James McConaghy, Michael Killough, Oisin Walker, Oran Fox, Ronan Campbell

Northend United 1 Ards FC Academy 0 Saturday 14th March 2026

Northend United U13s continued their strong league form with a wellearned win over Ards Academy FC U13 at Mount Pleasant 3G, keeping their unbeaten league record intact.

Northend started the match brightly and took the initiative early on, forcing Ards to defend deep inside their own half. A number of efforts from distance followed, though none seriously troubled the Ards goalkeeper, with shots either drifting wide or clearing the crossbar.

Ronan came closest to opening the scoring with a wellstruck free kick that rattled the crossbar, before the Ards defence reacted quickly to clear the rebound. The best chance of the half fell to Fionn after good work from Alphie down the wing, but Fionn couldn’t keep it down and the ball flew over the bar.

Ards looked dangerous on the counterattack, using their pace in forward areas but Northend’s defence stood strong throughout. They dealt confidently with any threats, limiting Ards to only a couple of half chances. Halftime: 0-0

Northend started the second half a little slower, with some wayward passing and rushed decisionmaking enabling Ards to apply early pressure. Despite this, the defence remained well organised, preventing any balls in behind and clearing their lines effectively.

As the half progressed, Northend began to find their rhythm, playing better football and showing improved offtheball movement. Oisín was presented with a few chances, the first forcing a save from the Ards goalkeeper at the near post, before sending his next effort just wide of the far post after a welltimed through ball from Conor.

Oisín had another opportunity shortly after from a floated ball into the box but his header went just off target.

The breakthrough finally came following some excellent linkup play between Conor and Conal at the edge of the box. Conor slipped a perfectly weighted through ball into the path of Fionn, who remained calm with his shot hitting the back of the net, giving the keeper no chance. 1-0

Northend pushed for a second goal, pressing high and putting the Ards defence under pressure. However, they were unable to extend their lead, with Ards holding firm until the final whistle. Northend managed the closing stages well to secure another clean sheet and a deserved three points. Full-time: 1-0

Player of the Match: Noah McGarry - He showed good effort and focus starting at right back and adapted well when he moved to right wing. He worked hard for the team, stayed disciplined and made good use of the ball.

Northend United 7 Glentoran Womens Academy 0 Monday 9th March 2026

Northend United 2013 put in a superb performance on Monday evening at Ballymena Showgrounds, running out convincing 7–0 winners against Glentoran Women’s U13s. Northend started the game brightly and it didn’t take long for the breakthrough to arrive.

Conal opened the scoring with a fantastic left footed strike from outside the box that looped over the goalkeeper and into the net. With the team full of confidence, Fionn took centre stage before the break, scoring a brilliant first-half hat-trick to give Northend a commanding lead. Half-time: 4–0

The second half continued in the same fashion, with Northend controlling the game well. Fionn added his fourth goal of the match, bringing his personal tally to four on a great night for him.

Northend kept pressing and Michael added the sixth goal to extend the lead even further.

The final goal came from a well-worked corner routine. Conan and Ronan combined cleverly from the set piece before the ball found Conor, who finished with a sweet side-foot volley into the net to round off a fantastic team performance.

A brilliant all-round display from Northend United with great attacking play and solid work across the pitch to secure an impressive victory. Full time: 7–0

Player of the Match: Oran Fox - keeping the Glen's at bay and keeping their chances to a minimum. He seemed to be all over the back, popping up everywhere and a distributing the ball well, keep up the hard work

United Panel: Alastair Doyle, Alphie Woodhouse, Conor Best, Conal Devlin, Conan Goodall, Noah McGarry, Fionn McGarry, Jack Curry, James McConaghy, Michael Killough, Kieran O’Loan, Oisin Walker, Oran Fox, Ronan Campbell

Northend United 1 Shankill Juniors 8 NIYFA Cup Quarter Final Saturday 28th February 2026

Northend United 2013’s NIYFA Cup journey came to an end on Saturday morning as they were defeated by a well organised and clinical Shankill Juniors U13 side at Ballymena Showgrounds.

Played in ideal conditions, the opening stages saw both teams looking to play positive football, resulting in a cautious and competitive first period with few clearcut chances. Shankill threatened early through their wide players, delivering several dangerous balls into the box but Northend goalkeeper Ally was alert, reacting well when called upon and supported by a defence quick to clear their lines.

The breakthrough came midway through the first half following a poor clearance. A Shankill midfielder headed the ball over the Northend defence into the path of the striker, who controlled before shooting. Ally managed to get a hand to the effort but was unable to prevent it crossing the line. The Shankill striker was clearly a yard or 2 offside but unfortunately this went noticed by the ref and the goal stood. 1-0

Northend responded with determination, enjoying spells of possession and build up play but were unable to find the necessary quality in the final third, with decision making and the final pass just not on point today. Half-time: 0-1

Northend started the second half on the front foot in search of an equaliser. A freekick on the right was delivered dangerously into the sixyard box by Ronan, forcing the Shankill goalkeeper into a fumble before recovering just in time to deny Conal.

Shankill doubled their advantage soon after from a corner. The delivery was not dealt with effectively, and the ball bounced into the net at the back post to make it 2-0.

A few minutes later, the game swung firmly in Shankill’s favour as their left midfielder produced a moment of real quality, driving at the defence, cutting inside his marker and finishing calmly into the bottom corner past the advancing Ally.

At 3-0, the contest drifted away from Northend. Heads dropped and basic errors crept in, allowing Shankill to capitalise ruthlessly with five further goals in a tenminute spell, stretching the scoreline to 8-0. A margin that did not fully reflect how competitive the match had been.

To their credit, Northend regrouped in the closing stages, creating several chances and earning a deserved consolation goal. Conan played a through ball to Oisín, who cut inside his defender and fired low into the bottom corner to cap a well worked move. Full-time: 1-8

Shankill were worthy winners, punishing loose passing and showing real quality and clinical finishing in the final third. We wish them the best of luck in the quarterfinals.

Despite the result, the coaches are very proud of the team’s overall NIYFA Cup campaign. The boys should also be proud of their performances throughout this cup.

Player of the Match: Conor Best - for his skill on display, forward runs and battling until the final whistle

United Panel: Alastair Doyle, Alphie Woodhouse, Conor Best, Conal Devlin, Conan Goodall, Noah McGarry, Fionn McGarry, Jack Curry, James McConaghy, Kieran O’Loan, Michael Killough, Oisin Walker, Oran Fox, Ronan Campbell

Northend United 2 Shorts FC 0 Wednesday 25th February 2026

Northend United U13s secured a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Shorts FC U13s on Wednesday night in what proved to be a scrappy contest despite perfect football conditions at Crumlin Leisure Centre. The first half was tight, with both teams battling for control and chances at a premium. Shorts keeper being busier of the two but both making good saves when called upon to keep the scoreline 0-0 going into halftime. Half time 0-0

Northend boys were asked to step up the tempo and move the ball with more intent during the 2nd half which they executed well. It took until the 42nd minute for the breakthrough but it was worth the wait. Alphie stepped up to a free kick at the edge of the box and produced a moment of real quality, curling a superb effort over the wall and into the net to give Northend a deserved lead. 1-0

The remainder of the match followed a similar pattern, competitive and physical, the boys were winning their duels, playing positive passes with some good link up play, making if difficult for Shorts.

Northend showed their strength from set pieces once again. In the 59th minute, a corner was whipped in with pace by Conan to the back post where Kieran rose highest, powering home a towering header to double the advantage. From there, Northend managed the game well, staying organised and disciplined to see out the clean sheet and claim the win. Full time 2-0

A scrappy match overall, but a professional performance and three points well earned for Northend United U13s. Good win to extend our lead at the top of the table with 13 wins from 13 matches. Big thanks to all the Colts and 2014s for stepping up tonight. All playing their part with good performances

Player of the Match: Kieran O'Loan - He put in a good shift, batted hard in multiple positions and also got on the score sheet.

United Panel: Alastair Doyle, Alphie Woodhouse, Conal Devlin, Conan Goodall, Noah McGarry, Fionn McGarry, Jack Curry, Kieran O’Loan, Oisin Walker, Oran Fox, Caolan Logan, Cahir McAllister, Throne Davids, Jack Stephens

Northend United 5 Cliftonville Ladies 1 Saturday 21st February 2026

Northend started well and applied early pressure, forcing Cliftonville to defend deep and play long balls. The high press allowed Northend to enjoy some success in the opening exchanges. A few early attempts on goal were well saved by the Cliftonville keeper who seemed to be on top form.

The next opportunity for the boys in blue and white came from a free kick at the edge of the box after Oran was taken out by a strong challenge which resulted in the defender getting injured. We hope it's not serious and she recovers fast.

Northend opened the scoring from the resulting free kick, Conan saw a gap at the side of the wall and slotted the ball low and hard catching the keeper off guard. 1-0

Cliftonville were defending well and strong in every tackle. Jack took a knock and needed a break. Noah comfortably slotted into left back to cover and supported Alphie down the left while defending really well with good recovery runs. Oran dropped back into centre back along with Ronan and James over to right back with Ally reacting well when called upon. It was another solid defensive display from these boys.

Conal came into midfield along with Conan and Conor, they were controlling the middle of the park well and winning their duels.

The football on display from Northend was a little scrappy at times, we weren't passing it around like we are accustomed to. Credit to Cliftonville for making it difficult.

Fionn was a menace up front giving their defence no time on the ball, his hold up play was very good and he was linking well with the midfield. Michael and Alphie were working hard on the wings, staying wide and looking for balls in behind the Cliftonville defence which caused them problems. Half time: 1-0

The boys were asked to go out in the 2nd half and be stronger on the ball, in the tackle and adapt their movement off the ball to create better chances and break down the deep line Cliftonville were holding.

We started better, moving the ball with more intensity and creating space. Fionn was unlucky not to extend our lead. Oisín was playing down the right wing with Michael slotting in to right back to cover for James who was carrying a knee injury.

The 2nd goal came from another set piece, Conal was fouled after making a good forward run from midfield. Up stepped Conan again, this time for 30 yards out and drove the ball into the top corner giving the keeper no chance. 2-0

The gap was closed a few minutes later when Cliftonville defender won the ball and played it out to the left back who went on a great solo run with lots of pace, down the left round our defence and through on goal. Her shot was low under an onrushing Ally who got a touch but couldn't keep it out. 2-1.

Unfortunately, Michael ended up injured during this phase and needed to attend A&E for a scan on his ankle. Fingers crossed it isn't serious and we see him back again sooner rather than later.

From the restart the boys pushed forward to extend the lead. We won another corner which was cleared by Cliftonville, Oran collected the ball, showed great skill to take it past 2 and was brought down in the box. Penalty to Northend. Ronan stepped up and calmly hit the roof of the net. 3-1

Northend were creating additional chances and playing better football. Alphie was unlucky not to score with his effort hitting the side netting and Conor's shot required the keeper to make another good save.

The next attack saw Alphie's effort well saved and pushed out to the left side, he reacted first to the rebound and crossed into the back post where Oisín was poised, he smashed the ball low and under the keeper to make it 4-1.

Into the last 5 and Cliftonville were struggling to get out of their own half. Northend won a corner from a good high press. Conan’s delivery was met by Ronan who finished well with a volley using the outside of his left foot. 5-1 Full-time: 5-1

Player of the Match: Noah McGarry- for his solid defensive performance including recovery runs and his support play going forward.

Northend United 4 Larne FC Girls 2 Saturday 7th February 2026

Northend United U13s secured a strong 4–2 win against Larne Ladies U13s in a competitive and hard-fought match on Saturday morning. It was end-to-end game from the start, with both sides showing good energy and determination.

Northend opened the scoring in the 15th minute when Fionn finished well after a positive attacking move to put the home side ahead. Larne responded with an equaliser following a mix-up at the back, bringing the score level.

Northend kept pushing forward and regained the lead through Conal, who calmly finished to make it 2–1. Larne continued to battle and managed to pull it back to 2–2, keeping the pressure on. Just before halftime, Michael struck to restore the advantage, sending Northend into the break 3–2 up. Half time: 3-2

In the second half, Northend tightened up defensively and limited Larne’s chances well. The team stayed organised and worked hard across the pitch. The final goal came when Noah arrived at the back post to finish nicely and make it 4–2, putting the result beyond doubt. A solid team performance and good finishing made the difference in an entertaining match. Full time 4-2

Player of the Match: Oran Fox - Oran was a rock at the back today passing was very good and maybe should have got on the score sheet

Northend United 8 Mossley Academy 0 Saturday 31st January 2026

Northend United started the game with real intent, moving the ball confidently and creating early pressure. Their bright start was rewarded when Alphie delivered a dangerous cross into the box. The Mossley goalkeeper couldn’t hold it and Michael reacted quickest to tap home the opener. 1-0

The lead was doubled only minutes later after some excellent linkup play in midfield involving Conal, Oran and Conor. The move was finished in style as Conor glided past his defender and struck a superb shot from the edge of the box into the right corner, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance. 2-0

Northend continued to dominate, pressing Mossley all over the pitch and giving them no time to settle. Their work rate and intensity allowed them to control possession and play some lovely football in the opposition half.

The pressure paid off again when a Mossley goal kick was won strongly by Conor. He drove forward, beat his man and slipped a perfectly weighted pass to Michael, who calmly slotted the ball past the advancing keeper. 3-0

The defence was quick to react to any long balls, won every battle and got us on the attack. Great support play from Noah and Jack down the flanks. James and Ronan stood firm, winning everything in the air and playing some lovely passing into midfield and up front. Marshalled by Ally at the back who didn't have much to do today but dealt with anything that came his way.

Just before halftime, Northend added a fourth with a superb team goal that moved from back to front in style. Ally collected a long ball and quickly released James, who turned and found Michael. His neat layoff played Conor into space and he delivered a beautifully judged throughball for Oisín. Oisín raced onto it and finished confidently beyond the keeper. 4-0 A dominant first half showcasing excellent teamwork, high energy and clinical finishing from the Northend boys. Half time: 4-0

Northend began the second half with the same momentum and intensity that had driven their dominant firsthalf display. They continued to control possession, win second balls and make smart decisions all over the pitch. Their pressure paid off once again from a set piece. Jack delivered a wellplaced corner into the box and when the Mossley defence failed to clear, Conal reacted sharply to guide the ball into the bottom corner. 5-0

Moments later, another corner brought another reward. This time Oisín sent a superb ball towards the back post, where Fionn timed his run perfectly and connected with a brilliant volley, driving the ball into the far corner to extend the lead. 6-0

Mossley struggled to play out due to Northend’s relentless high press. From a short goal kick, Conor closed down quickly, dispossessed the defender and unselfishly squared the ball to Conal, who was well positioned in the centre of the box. Conal made no mistake, finishing calmly into the bottom left corner. 7-0

As the match neared its conclusion, Northend added an eighth. Another right-sided corner from Oisín was whipped into the sixyard area, where Conan rose highest and powered a header past the goalkeeper. Full-time: 8-0

A solid allround performance resulting in another clean sheet and multiple goal scorers. The boys combined hard work, creativity and clinical finishing from start to finish.

Player of the Match: Oisin Walker - for his holdup play and attacking contribution throughout the game

.Northend United 2 Portavogie Rangers 0 Saturday 17th January 2026

Northend United U13s came out the stronger of the two teams on a very difficult surface, with the pitch wet, sandy, and sticky underfoot. Despite the conditions, Northend started positively and moved the ball well when possible.

The opening goal came after a good break down the left-hand side, where Alphie showed great awareness to cut the ball across the six-yard box. Michael was on hand to meet it and finished calmly to give Northend a deserved 1–0 lead.

The tough pitch made it difficult for Northend to fully get their passing game going, but the players showed good determination and work rate. On the 22nd minute, Conal doubled the lead with an excellent strike, hitting the ball cleanly into the bottom right corner, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance. Half time 2-0

Northend continued to control the game in the second half, managing the conditions well and defending solidly when required. Portavogie Rangers tried to get back into the match, but Northend stayed organised and limited their chances.

Despite opportunities at both ends, no further goals were added, and Northend saw the game out professionally to secure a well-earned away victory Full time 2-0

Player of the Match: Ronan Campbell - good communication and being calm on and off the ball.

United Panel: Alastair Doyle, Alphie Woodhouse, Conor Best, Conal Devlin, Conan Goodall, Noah McGarry, Fionn McGarry, Jack Curry, James McConaghy, Michael Killough, Oisin Walker, Ronan Campbell