This was a physical game played in blustery conditions.
The Colts started slowly with Cavehill Colts having much of the play in the first 10 mins. Stout defending across the back line by Ben Tweedy (great to see him back playing after a horrible injury), Eoin McG and Luke ensured the Colts stayed in the game. With 20 mins played Cavehill took the lead when a number of errors lead to the ball not being cleared and the Cavehill winger finished well. Against the run of play Carryduff scored an equaliser when after a period of pressure a good shot from Rory was fumbled by the Cavehill keeper and the ball dropped into the goals. This seemed to stir the Colts into action and for the remainder of the half the Colts were a match for Cavehill. Score at half time was 1 all.
The second half was a different matter – a much better performance all round, getting to the ball first, winning the 50/50 tackles and pushing into the Cavehill penalty box. Eoin Haigney, who seemed to relish the physical attention he was getting, played in the forwards for a number of good chances. Carryduff were well on top and should have converted a number of excellent chances not least of all when three Carryduff forward who were all well offside were allowed to play on and only several goal line clearances prevented the Colts taking the lead. Nye came on and immediately made his presence felt. Unfortunately he took a bad tackle, had to go off but came back on to play an important part in heading clear off the line in the last ten minutes. Connor Mackey came on and played very well at the heart of the defence. A good physical game which ended in a 1 all draw.
A game the Colts should have won in the second half but have to be admired in standing up to some very strong physical tackles which the referee didn’t get a hold early on and allowed it to spoil what was otherwise a competitive game.
A word of thanks also for the big support for all the U15 players who turned up to support and cheer the team on.
The managers of the Colts wish the players and parents a very Merry Christmas. Thank you for your continued support during the season and we look forward to resuming training and matches in the New Year.