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Northend Colts 5 Oxford Sunnyside Tornados 3 Saturday 24th February 2024

The Colts turned in a top performance in this game against Oxford Sunnyside. From the start they were on the front foot and took the game to their opponents. Managers Brian McDonald and Ian Smyth will be pleased with the performance of the team.

Panel: Jacob Moore, Fraser O’Kane, Cathal Doherty, Maxim Kostolny, Jamie McCann, Oscar McGlone, James Mullan, Harrison Smyth, Cian Mc Donald, Jason Archer, Ronan Ward, Nathaniel Mackle

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Northend Colts 0 Andersonstown Colts 1 Saturday 3rd February 2024

An early morning start for the Colts today saw them face up against Andersonstown for the first time this season. With the Colts looking to put their unlucky last couple of weeks behind them and get something to lift spirits they started the game matching their opponents in every area of the park. After an evenly matched first half, the Colts were unfortunate to come in at the break 1-0 down. Half time 0-1

Much of the same in the second half until Harrison’s determined run from the middle of the park seen him break through the last line of the Andersonstown defence and remain composed to make it 1-1 by finishing a well taking shot in off the post. Both teams showed desire to win the game but it was Andersonstown who took the lead once again.

The lead wasn’t to last long with Northend showing no interested in giving up. This attitude paid of when Cian received the ball on the right wing, face up against his defender, showed good skill and strength to go past him and hit a shot from way outside the box to beat the Andersonstown keeper. With their tails up once again Northend had a number of opportunities to finish the game but the unlucky run continues when once again a spectacular shot which no keeper in this year group would have saved was the difference between the two teams.

Another good performance with an unfortunate final result for the little Ballymena men. Lots of good performances today and plenty to work on this week. Full time 0-1

Special mention to Throne who impressed in his first match for the club

Player of the Match: Oscar McGlone – an excellent defensive performance at the heart of midfield

Panel: Jacob Moore, Cathal Doherty, Fraser O’Kane, Jamie McCann, Max Zaporpwicz, Maxim Kostolny, Jason Archer, Oscar McGlone, Ronan Ward, Harrison Smyth, Cian McDonald, Dara O’Broin, Throne Davids

Northend Colts 1 Ridgeway Mill Colts 3 Saturday 13th January 2024

The game started fairly even with Northend having a slightly better start than the opponents. As the half wore on, our boys were attacking more and more. The defence of Oscar, Fraser and captain Ronan stood firm. It then became relentless, with Dawid, Dara, Jason and James all trying to get their shots away. Unfortunately, Ridgeway got the blocks in, and a couple of occasions we hit the woodwork.

Against the run of play Ridgeway managed to take advantage of a misunderstanding between midfield and defence to score. And got another in similar circumstances. 2-0 Ridgeway. The boys pressed harder and Cian picked James out nicely on the edge of the box from a corner. James controlled it and took his shot from about 20yards, goal. Half time 1-2

With a few changes at halftime, bringing on Harrison, Max and Jacob. The boys were under instruction to go at Ridgeway again, put them under pressure just like the 1st half and the goals would come. At the same time try to make sure not to leave Fraser on his own at the back.

Unfortunately, it was one of those days where we pushed and pushed and it just would not go in for us. Sometimes the shots were rushed, hit the woodwork again or maybe a pass would have been a better option. Max kept a cool head and delivered some great balls in from the right, but we just could not get that final touch on the end of them. Ridgeway took advantage of Northend’s constant pressure by hitting us with a couple of quick counter attacks, and in the end managed to nick an extra to make the game 3-1 to Ridgeway.

A very unfair result on the boys today, but one we can learn from as players and coaches. Full time 1-3

Player of the Match: James Mullan for a great performance all round in midfield, back to his best. He took his goal beautifully and was unlucky not to score 2 or 3 more.

Panel: Jamie McCann, Jacob Moore, Ronan Ward (c), Fraser Okane, Oscar McGlone, Dawid Radziwonka, Cian McDonald, James Mullan, Dara O’Brion, Jason Archer, Max Zaporowicz, Harrison Smyth

Northend Colts 0 Crewe United 3 Saturday 6th January 2024

In an eagerly anticipated match between Northend Colts and Crewe United, the final score may not have favoured Northend Colts, but the team's spirit and progress were undeniable. Despite showing significant improvement as a cohesive unit, Northend Colts were unable to overcome Crewe United, who clinched the victory with a series of well-executed goals.

Crewe took an early lead with two remarkable free kick goals, leaving Northend Colts' goalkeeper, Jacob, with minimal opportunity for a save. As the first half progressed, Crewe United capitalized on their momentum to net another goal just before halftime. Half time 0-2

However, halftime saw a determined Northend Colts regroup and worked together. Although their concerted effort did not lead to a comeback, Northend Colts' admirable teamwork and commitment were evident throughout the game. Despite Crewe United scoring once more in the second half, Northend Colts' resilience and progression as a team were clear indicators of their dedication and improving skills.

It's evident that Northend Colts' hard work and collective improvement over the past six months have laid a solid foundation for future success. Every player played a crucial role in contributing to the team's progress, and their commitment to working together as a cohesive unit was commendable. Full time 0-3

Player of the Match: Harrison Smyth

Panel: Jacob Moore, Oscar McGlone, Fraser O’Kane, Cain McDonald, Jamie McCann, James Mullan, Maksymillian Zaporowicz, Maxim Kostolny, Harrison Smyth (C), Ronan Ward, Cathal Doherty, Jason Archer, Dara O’Broin