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Northend United 4 Lisburn Rangers Girls1 Saturday 20th December 2025

We played Lisburn Rangers Girls this morning, 10:30 kickoff at Loughside 4G. Northend United started brightly, moving the ball with confidence, but some sloppy forward passing meant early chances went begging.

The breakthrough finally came when Alphie’s effort was parried by the Lisburn Rangers keeper and Fionn reacted quickest to slot home. 1-0 Half time: 1-0

At the break, the boys were asked to keep the ball on the ground, play to feet and make third-man runs and they delivered.

A slick move saw Conal find Fionn, who held it up and laid it back for Conal to thread a perfect through ball to Alphie. One touch, a composed finish and it was 2-0

The third goal was a moment of individual skill from Ronan who surged from defence, gliding past three players before releasing Alphie, who guided a first-time strike into the bottom corner. 3-0

Northend continued to dominate and when Alphie crossed from the left, Conal controlled, beat a defender and finished into the far corner. 4-0

Lisburn Rangers kept battling and were rewarded late on, capitalising on a loose pass at the back to make it 4-1. Full-Time: 4-1

Player of the Match: Alphie Woodhouse – for his attacking threat and skill down the left topped off with 2 goals and an assist

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

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Northend United 1 Magherafelt SB 1 Northend win 4-3 on pens Sunday 14th December 2025

Northend showed great character and resilience to progress on penalties after a hard-fought draw against Magherafelt Sky Blues U13s in extremely difficult weather conditions at Meadowbank Sports Arena. In the first half, Northend United played into a strong wind but remained well organised and disciplined at the back. Despite the conditions, the team played some very good football, keeping Magherafelt Sky Blues at bay and limiting them to a few chances. Half time 0-0

The second half was a very even contest, with both teams committing to playing some good football despite the worsening weather. Magherafelt Sky Blues took the lead following an poorly worked goalkick, putting Northend behind against the run of play. The introduction of Oisin proved to be the turning point. Showing great determination, he refused to give up and brought Northend level with a sweetly struck finish, lifting the whole team.

Defensively, Northend worked tirelessly, with the defence, midfield and attackers all putting in huge efforts. The midfield battled hard throughout, while the forwards never stopped pressing and working for the team. Ally produced several excellent saves to keep Northend United in the game and was outstanding when called upon. Full time 1-1

With the match finishing 1-1, Northend held their nerve in the penalty shootout to secure a well-deserved victory and capped off a strong team performance in very tough conditions.

Player of the Match: Ally Doyle - some great saves throughout the game, distribution and a fantastic penalty save in the shoot ou

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 10 Mossley FC 1 Saturday 29th November 2025

We played against Mossley FC Academy u13 this morning in Mallusk on a bumpy surface. Despite what seemed like a subdued mood before kickoff, the boys came alive as soon as the whistle blew. From the start, Northend pressed high with purpose, denying Mossley time on the ball and creating early chances. This set the tone early on.

After several near misses and good goalkeeping from our opponents, Ronan’s perfectly weighted ball over the top found Conan, who rounded the keeper and calmly slotted home for 1-0.

A brief lapse in concentration allowed Mossley back into the game when a long ball caught the defence out, their striker got in behind and took the ball past Ally to equalize. 1-1

Northend responded brilliantly and created additional chances. The keeper made a good save from one and just missed the target from another. Conal regained the lead with a composed finish after winning possession high up the pitch. 2-1

From the kickoff, Oisín put pressure on the defender to force a corner on the right side. Jack took the corner, Conal went short, laid it back to Jack with his cross come shot flying into the top of the net giving the keeper no chance. A great executed corner routine. 3-1

The boys won another corner a few minutes later. This time on the left, Conan crossed to the back post where Michael was waiting unmarked. He struck a sweet volley into the net to extend the lead. 4-1

Mossley was finding it difficult and struggled to get out of their own half. When they did from long balls Northend defence held a high line, catching their striker offside each time. Northend continued to dominate, moving the ball quickly, switching play and making intelligent runs. A flowing move down the left ended with Alphie crossing for Fionn to finish clinically. 5-1 Half time: 5-1

The boys started the 2nd half with the same intensity as the first with Mossley trying to pass the ball out from the back but weren't given any time or space to do so.

From a Mossley goal kick, Conan headed forward, Conal reacted first and hit it first time. A stunning volley from 20 yards out over the keeper into the net. 6-1

Another Mossley goal kick, this time met by Conan, he controlled and passed to Michael he passed to Conal who laid off to Conan who struck it well with the ball hitting the back of the net from 20 yards out. 7-1 Five minutes later it was 8-1. A great move back to front, James played it into midfield, Conan played to Fionn, he held it up and passed to Michael who played it through to Fionn to tap it into the net past the keeper.

Conor won the next kickout. Controlled it well, skipped past the defender and shot from the edge of the box into the corner of the net giving the keeper little chance to make a save. 9-1The tenth game a few minutes later after Northend won a foul in midfield. Ronan played it short to Kieran, got it back and shot. The Mossley keeper made a good save but Alphie reacted first to get to the rebound and flick the ball past the keeper at the near post. 10-1 Full-time 10-1

Northend were relentless from start to finish, combining high pressing with sharp decision-making and clinical finishing. Mossley battled hard but couldn’t cope with the tempo and quality on display from Northend today. A fantastic team performance full of energy, creativity and determination.

Player of the Match: Michael Killough – for his versatility today, strong defensive play at right back in the first half including a great goal and impactful attacking contributions from the right wing in the second half.

Northend United 2 Shorts 0 Saturday 22nd November 2025

Northend started the game with high intensity, pressing from the first whistle and forcing Shorts into defensive errors. Early chances came thick and fast but it looked like it might be one of those days where the boys couldn’t convert and the scoreline not reflecting a dominant performance.

Defensively, Northend were solid yet again. Ally in nets was reliable when called upon and Shorts rarely threatened as they struggled to get out of their own half or in behind our defense unit. The midfield worked together, driving forward in possession and covering back when needed. Up front, the forwards were a constant threat, showing for the ball, getting in behind and pressing high.

Northend’s shape and movement caused Shorts all sorts of problems, creating multiple chances, though many shots missed the target.

The breakthrough came midway through the first half from a well-worked corner routine. Alphie played short to Conan, got the return at the corner of the box, and delivered a cross come shot that found the bottom corner. 1-0.

Before halftime, Northend continued to dominate, with the closest effort coming from Conal, whose strike from the edge of the box hit the crossbar. Half time: 1-0.

After the restart, Northend came out with more intent, moving the ball quicker and looking to kill the game off. Despite lovely spells of football in all areas of the pitch and plenty of chances created, the conversion rate remained low.

The second goal did finally arrived when Ronan’s ball over the top bounced in the box with Fionn reacting quickest, heading over the keeper into the open net. 2-0.

Shorts did get in behind our defence from a corner clearance, the striker broke through on goal but ally was quick to react, closed down the space and made a good save to ensure he kept anotjer clean sheet.

Northend piled on the pressure until the final whistle but couldn’t add to their tally. Another strong and comfortable performance from the boys today. Full time: 2-0

Player of the Match: Conan Goodall - for his break-up play, getting into dangerous positions causing problems for our opponents and composure on the ball in the 2nd half.

Northend United 1 Portavogie Rangers 0 Saturday 15th November 2025

A waterlogged grass pitch forced Saturday’s match onto the 3G surface at the Valley Leisure Centre. Northend adapted well early on and produced a strong performance to earn a 1–0 win over Portavogie Rangers.

Northend were excellent in the first half, controlling the game and passing with confidence. They created plenty of chances but couldn't convert and put the game to bed. Their bright play was rewarded in the 27th minute with a moment of real quality from Conal, who opened the scoring with a superb strike from outside the box. He picked up the ball in space, struck it cleanly and sent it flying past the goalkeeper. A great finish and the standout moment of the match. Half time: 1-0

The second half, against the wind saw Northend lose some of their earlier composure. Instead of keeping the ball down and playing free flowing football as they had done in the first half, the team began to hit too many long balls, often “hoofing” it under pressure and giving possession away cheaply.

Northend had additional chances to extend the lead but we lacked the finishing quality and coolness in the final 3rd today.

Portavogie grew more confident as a result, pressing higher and forcing Northend into more defensive work. Despite the dip in quality, Northend dug in well, limiting their opponents to half chances, showing good positioning and staying disciplined to protect the lead and see out the win. Full time: 1-0

Player of the Match: Conal Devlin - for breaking up of play and always being in the right place and a tidy finish over the keeper.

Northend United 2 Dungannon Youth (NL) 1 Saturday 8th November 2015

Round 2 of the NIYFA Cup this morning in a home fixture against National League side Dungannon United at Ballymena Showgrounds 4G kicking off at 10:30.

Northend started brightly, taking the kickoff and pressing high from the outset. The boys applied early pressure, forcing Dungannon into mistakes and enjoying some success in the opening exchanges.

Alhough Northend didn’t quite reach the level of football they’re capable of today, they showed tremendous work rate and determination throughout. The team battled hard, pushing forward to create chances while the defence stood firm, restricting Dungannon to long range efforts for most of the match. The back line worked as a unit, supporting each other well, and Ally in goal dealt comfortably with shots from distance and balls over the top.

In midfield, the players worked tirelessly, driving forward in possession and tracking back when out of possession. The forwards remained a constant threat, offering options and defending from the front.

Dungannon looked to play through midfield and build attacks, but Northend’s disciplined defending and Ally’s command of his area kept them at bay.

The breakthrough came midway through the first half for Northend. Ronan delivered a long ball down the left, Alphie whipped in a cross that was partially cleared to the edge of the box, where Conal controlled and fired a superb strike into the bottom right corner. 1-0 Northend.

The remainder of the half saw both sides battle for control, but neither could add to the scoreline. Northend went into the break with a deserved one goal lead. Half time: 1-0

Dungannon came out with intent after the restart, pushing forward in search of an equaliser. Their moment arrived following a neat move through midfield, releasing their left winger down the flank. He cut inside and fired a shot over Ally into the roof of the net. 1-1

Northend responded superbly and regained the lead just minutes later. After Jack was fouled near halfway line, Ronan played the free kick short to Jack, who fed Conan. Conan slipped the ball to Alphie, the initial pass was intercepted, but Alphie fought to win it back and whipped in a dangerous cross toward the back post. The keeper managed to push it away, Noah’s follow-up was blocked on the line (a very close call!) and Fionn reacted quickest to slot the ball home. 2-1 Northend.

Northend got another chance to extend our lead after Conor played a lovely throughball to Fionn who was strong, took on his man, got into the box and was taken down. Conan stepped up to hit the penalty which was well saved by the Dungannon keeper to stop Northend from extending their lead.

The final 15 minutes were a little scrappy, with both sides defending well and clearing danger with long balls. A few half chances came and went, but Northend held firm to secure a 2-1 victory and progress to the next round. Full-time: 2-1

Player of the Match: Ronan Campbell - a solid defensive display and good ball distribution

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 1 Carrick Rangers 1 Monday 27th October 2025

This fixture marked the final game of the Supplementary League Cup, with Carrick Rangers needing a result to secure a spot in the semi-finals. The Northend boys were determined to deny them that opportunity.

We started brightly, pressing high and applying early pressure. Our build up play from back to front was fluid and composed, setting the tone for the match. Much of our attacking threat in the first half came down the left flank, where Alphie was a constant menace, latching onto clever through balls from Conor and Conal. Linking up well with Jack who provided support from left back. Michael was alao a threat when the ball was switched over to the right.

Up front, Fionn worked tirelessly, harrying the Carrick defence and forcing errors with his relentless pressing. Despite creating several early chances by getting in behind Carrick’s backline, we couldn’t find the finishing touch. A recurring issue that we need to address. Converting these opportunities are key to putting games to bed more effectively, especially against stronger opposition.

We dominated midfield again tonight, especially from Carrick’s goal kicks, which allowed us to stay on the front foot. Defensively, we were aggressive and disciplined, Jack, Noah, Oran and Ronan winning aerial duels and being first to the ball when Carrick opted for long balls.

Additional chances came our way, though a few questionable offside calls went against us. Still, the team maintained control and composure throughout the half but were unable to get that decisive goal that was deserving due to the quality of football being played. Half time: 0-0

Northend came out strong after the break, creating an early chance that led to a corner. Conan delivered a dangerous ball to the front post, which Carrick failed to clear. Michael rose to head it goalward and Fionn reacted brilliantly with a scissor kick from six yards out to finally break the deadlock. 0-1

The hoops continued to impress, linking up well with sharp passing and intelligent movement. Attacking opportunities came from all areas. Through the middle, down the right and the left. Carrick persisted with long balls, but they struggled to make any impact against Northend’s composed and confident play.

Another corner after good pressing from Oisín saw Noah attack the ball with intent, his volley just over the crossbar. Shortly after, a well worked move from a throw-in saw Jack find Conan, who turned and passed to Conal. Fionn laid it back to Conal, who teed up Conan at the edge of the box but his shot just missed the target.

Carrick managed a rare break through our defence down the right, with their striker getting a shot off inside the box. Ally made a solid save and was quick to gather the rebound, keeping Northend ahead. A free kick from Ronan on the right was floated into the box, where Fionn met it, but couldn’t make clean contact, allowing Carrick to clear their lines.

As the match entered its final minutes, Carrick began to find some success with long balls. One such move saw their forward regain possession near the right corner after Northend failed to clear. He squared the ball to the edge of the box, where a Carrick midfielder struck a high shot that dipped just under the bar to equalise against the run of play. 1-1

Northend pushed hard to restore the lead before the final whistle, but time ran out. Full time: 1-1

Player of the Match: Conor Best - for his skill going forward and his battling when out of possession

Northend United 7 Larne FC Girls 0 Saturday 25th October 2025

It was an early and chilly start for the boys of Northend United U13s as they travelled to face Larne Ladies in the South Belfast Youth League at the hammer, kick off taking place at 9am.

The cold morning seemed to have an effect early on, with a slightly sluggish start, but once they found their rhythm, Northend quickly took control of the match.

Noah provided a perfectly weighted assist for Michael, who calmly slotted home to open the scoring and make it 0-1. The visitors’ pressing game began to tell, and Fionn’s relentless pressure paid off as he forced an error to double the lead. 0-2

Moments later, a brilliant run by Connor passing to Fionn and he finished off a superb move, extending the lead to 0-3. As Northend continued to dominate possession, the ball broke loose to the edge of the box, Noah caught it sweetly on the half-volley, watching it fly into the top corner for a stunning fourth goal. 0-4.

Before the half-time whistle, Conal showed great striker’s instinct, pouncing in the box like a true poacher to make it 0-5 at the break. Half time: 5-0

The second half began with the sun in the boys’ eyes, and Larne sitting deep with everyone behind the ball. Despite that, Northend maintained their composure and kept up the pressure. Their persistence was rewarded when a corner was met brilliantly at the back post by Ronan, who finished neatly. 0-6.

Connor was then brought down in the area and stepped up confidently to take the resulting penalty, placing it coolly to the goalkeeper’s left. 0-7

A fantastic all-round team performance, with contributions across the pitch and goals shared around the squad. A clean sheet, great energy, and another strong result as Northend United U13s now turn their focus to Monday night’s game. Final Score: 0-7

Player of the Match: Jack Curry - When Jack came on he didn't put a foot wrong with forward passing and great defensive work

Northend United 9 Dromore Amateurs 0 Saturday 18th October 2025

Northend United U13s kicked off our NIYFA Cup campaign with a home fixture against Dromore Amateurs FC at Wakehurst Playing Fields. We started strongly pinning Dromore into their own half from the first kick of the game and didn't let up.

Conor had an early shot which the keeper saved, Fionn reacted fast and followed up the rebound to head the ball past the Dromore keeper to open the score which set the tone for the rest of the half. 1-0

The blues midfield were controlling the game and linking up well with our forwards and defenders. Conan passed to Conor who switched play to Conal. Conal put Alphie through and he finished well into the bottom corner. 2-0

Our defense was solid and supported the midfield really well. Ally was available for a back pass and his distribution was good when called upon.

Ronan pushed forward to receive a throw in, he got his head up and crossed into the box. Fionn attacked the ball with his effort going just wide.

Dromore then pushed forward from the kickout. Ally was ready and waiting to collect the ball in his box. He played it long down the left to Alphie who slotted a through ball to Fionn, he held off the defender well and finished into the corner to extend Northend lead. 3-0

The next attack soon followed this time with Conal and Fionn linking up well. Fionn held off his man again to burst through on goal. The keeper came out well to block the shot but the ball fell to Fionn on the ground and he managed to kick it on the ground into an open net to get his hat trick. 4-0 Northend were relentless and continued working hard to pile more pressure on Dromore. Ronan found space in front and played another through to Fionn, his shot just wide of the post.

More good work down the left, cross was half cleared just outside the 18 yard box. Conor won the clearance, took a touch and lobbed the keeper with a great shot from 18 yards out. 5-0. More great work down the right with Noah and James linking up well. James took it past 2 and crossed to Alphie at the back post but didn't fully connect with the ball.

Halftime: 5-0

Northend started the 2nd half with more intensity and continued to work hard. The first chance of the 2nd half went to Conor. His shot was saved off line and Conal followed up with his effort well blocked and out for a corner. The boys continued to play nice football. Good work by Michael down the right, played a one two with Fionn and the cross was blocked going out for a corner.

Conan delivered another dangerous cross which was cleared by Dromore. Jack controlled the ball and passed to Oisín down the left, laid it back to Jack to cross and our opponents defence cleared the ball. Oran controlled the ball and had a long range effort which was well saved by the Dromore keeper.

Northend continued to make it very difficult for Dromore to get out of their half. When they did, our defence was strong in the tackle and won their battles all day to mitigate any danger and utilising Ally to keep possession. Michael was causing problems down the right with his pace, a good ball into the box to Oisín who had his shot blocked.

Another through ball this time by Noah put Alphie through, his shot from a narrow angle went into the far bottom corner. Lovely finish. 6-0

The midfield were excellent from Dromore kickouts winning every one to keep them pinned in their half and under lots of pressure. From their next goal kick, Conal won the ball, burst through and hit the bar and went over from a good effort. Conor won another kick out, passed to Conal who had time to control and hit a shot into the bottom corner from the edge of the box. 7-0

Our next attack came from Conal who burst down the right taking past their defender, he crossed into the box and Alphie was waiting to slot the ball into the net for his 3rd and 2nd hat trick of the match. 8-0

The final few minutes saw Northend continue to push forward, Conor linked well with Alphie down the left, his cross into the box was slotted home by Oisín. 9-0. Full-time 9-0.

Player of the Match: Fionn McGarry - his work rate, hold up play and relentless pressure put on Dromore defence all topped off with a hat trick

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

Northend United 2 Glentoran Women 1 Saturday 11th October 2025

Northend United U13 picked up a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Glentoran Women U13 in an exciting encounter played in the shadow of Windsor Park.

From the first whistle, Northend pressed high and showed great energy off the ball. Their early pressure paid off when Oisín tried his luck from outside the box — his strike looped over the goalkeeper and into the net to make it 1–0.

The visitors kept the momentum going, moving the ball well and forcing Glentoran onto the back foot. Their efforts were rewarded when Conal doubled the lead, finishing off a well-worked move to put Northend 2–0 up heading into the break. Half time 2-0

After half-time, Glentoran came out stronger and looked sharper in attack. A mix-up at the back for Northend allowed the hosts to pull one back, making it 2–1 and setting up a tense finish.

Northend regrouped well after the goal, regaining their composure and keeping the Glens at arm’s length. As Glentoran pushed for an equaliser late on, Ally produced a brilliant sliding save to deny them, ensuring Northend held on for a well-earned win.

A solid all-round performance from the boys, especially in the first half, showing great pressing, teamwork, and resilience to see the game out. Full time 2-1

Player of the Match: Jack Curry For his work rate, organisational skills, forward play, and talking,

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

Northend United 1 Greenisland 2 Saturday 27th September 2025

Today the boys were up against Greenisland in very rainy conditions at Grove Playing Fields. Northend started well and put Greenisland under lots of pressure which continued throughout the first half. The defence was solid, midfield controlled the middle of the pitch and forwards were causing problems for the Greenisland defenders. Ally in the nets didn't have much to do. The boys were playing some great football and created plenty of chances early on but unfortunately we were not able to capitalise. The next chance we created fell to Noah who had his shot well saved by the Greenisland keeper after good work and a through ball by Conal.

Greenisland were playing long balls trying to get out of their half. The Northend defence was more than up to the task of winning their battles and supporting each other. James was making great supporting runs down the right, linking well with Noah and being an outlet for the midfield while bringing others into the match. Jack shut down the left side and was playing nice balls down the wing to Alphie who was causing problems on the attack while Oran and Ronan stood firm winning their battles. Fionn continued to battle hard and put pressure on their defence.

Another long Greenisland ball was met by Ronan who made a forward run, taking it past a few players and shot from long range. His shot beat the keeper but rebounded off the post, Fionn was first to react and finished well to put Northend in front. 1-0. Northend created additional chances before the end of the half but just couldn't put the ball in the net to extend the lead. Half time 1-0

The second half began with Northend continuing to control the tempo. Our midfield remained dominant, and the defence stayed compact. Ally was called into action a few times, coming off his line decisively to clear danger. Despite our pressure and chances, we couldn’t find the second goal to put the game to bed.

Greenisland won a corner. Northend partially cleared out the right side, their forward got there first and managed to get past our defence and put in a cross into the six yard box past Ally at the near post which was met by an unmarked forward who headed the ball into an empty net. 1-1

The goal gave Greenisland hope, but Northend responded with resilience showing great movement and teamwork, but it was one of those days in the final 3rd where the ball just wouldn’t go in.

Northend won another corner, it wasn't cleared, Noah controlled the ball at the back post, took it past a defender whose out stretched leg made contact, the ref blew for a penalty. Unfortunately the ball went just past the post with the score remaining 1-1. We continued to push forward, Oisín linking up well down the left and Kieran pressing high, putting our opposition's defence under pressure to force mistakes.

Into the last 5-10 minutes, a Greenisland midfielder struck a speculative long-range effort that soared over Ally and dipped under the bar. A cruel blow given the balance of play. 1-2 Northend pushed for an equaliser in the final minutes, winning a free kick, corner and a couple of half-chances falling our way, but we couldn’t convert today despite our best efforts. The final whistle brought a sense of frustration, as the performance deserved more than the result delivered.Full time 1-2

Despite the loss, the boys showed attitude, teamwork, and quality throughout. The Greenisland manager commented post-match that Northend deserved something today. A testament to the effort and spirit shown by the boys.

It was great to see a strong reaction from the lads after last week’s disappointing performance. The effort, attitude, and teamwork was there today. If we keep putting in that level of commitment and leave everything on the pitch, I have no doubts the results will soon follow.

Player of the Match: James McConaghy

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

Northend United 0 Ballyclare Comrades 4 Saturday 20th September 2025

A tough and disappointing morning for the boys in their second game of the season, as they came up short against Ballyclare Comrades. From the start we never really found our rhythm, and mistakes at the back were punished. Despite some hard work and glimpses of good play, we didn't take our chances. It wasn’t enough to get a foothold in the game.

This was a substandard performance by our standards, and the lads know they’re capable of much better. The result is disappointing, but it will be used as a learning experience for the team.

Player of the Match: Ronan Campbell - never say die attitude, providing maximum effort and playing his hardest to the final whistle.

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

Northend United 4 Larne Youth 0 Friday 12th September 2025

A strong performance by Northend United Youth U13 tonight against Larne Youth U13 in Crumlin.

From the start, Northend were up for it, working hard, pressing high and putting Larne on the back foot. The defence was solid, winning their battles and playing out from the back meaning Ally had a quiet night. When called upon, he came out to clear any danger. Jack and Noah were supporting going forward providing an outlet when needed along with some overlapping runs. James, Oran and Ronan didn't let anything past, winning aerial duels and reading the game very well giving Larne forwards no opportunities to test Ally in goal.

With the boys high press Larne found it difficult to get out of their half. When in possession the blues passing and movement caused Larne problems and created more chances.

The blues Midfield controlled the game. Conal, Conan and Conor linked up really well with each other as well as the defence and forwards. We had some great passages of play to cut through our opponents midfield and get us on the attack. Alphie and Michael were causing lots of problems by staying wide and making great runs in behind. Fionn was a nuisance, pressing really well and getting into good positions between the Larne defence. Oisín was working hard, holding up the ball well and getting crosses into the box.

Northend's work rate paid off with early chances being created. The first goal was scored following a good move in midfield, Conal playing a through ball to Alphie who found himself one on one with the Larne keeper, he slotted the ball over the on-coming keeper, a great finish. 1-0

The 2nd goal came from another through ball from Conal after some great play from defence through midfield. Alphie ran down the left wing, cut in and shot into the roof of the net with another great finish. 2-0

From another attack, Fionn was fouled in the middle of the pitch 25 yards out. Conan took the free kick forcing the Larne keeper to make a good save, Finn followed in and was first to react to pass the ball into the net. Unfortunately, the referee deemed he was in an offside position and disallowed the goal. Half time: 2-0

The second half saw Northend continue to pile on the pressure creating chance after chance. The Larne keeper was quick to react on a number of occasions to rush out of his box to clear the ball. He also made a few good saves to stop Northend from extending our lead further. Northend continued to play some lovely football throughout the pitch. It was a joy to watch at times showing the level these boys are capable of playing at.

Ronan made some strong tackles coming away with the ball pushing into midfield and playing the right pass to start further attacks. Another through ball by Conal was met this time by Fionn. His shot was into the corner, the keeper got a hand to it but couldn't stop the ball hitting the back of the net. 3-0

Larne tried to get some success with long balls over the top but were unsuccessful with James reacting to get there first and find the right pass. Northend defence stood strong and worked as a defensive unit from the first whistle to the last. Northend continued to dominate and play great football. Conal and Conor played a lovely give and go resulting in Conal being through on goal. He was calm in front of goal to slot the ball past the keeper's outstretched arm into the bottom corner. Full time 4-0

Player of the Match: Conal Devlin – strong performance in midfield, 3 assists and a goal for himself.

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