DUY under 11’s travelled to Preston to make their debut in the Easter Cup Competition, playing in an age group more than 1 - 2 years older than the majority of their team which gave the boys an uphill challenge.

Friday saw them lose both their matches. They firstly lost 3 - 2 to Springfield JFC. Dungannon goal scorers in this match were: Paul Donaghy and Gavin Corr. The second match that day saw them defeated by Hamilton Accies 4 - 2 with Paul Donnelly netting DUY goals in this match. Although losing both matches, the young Dungannon team did themselves proud as they had the majority of the play and numerous attempts on goal, but nothing seemed to go their way.

The following day saw them play the group favourites, St. Peter’s. Unbelievable guts and determination saw the DUY boys pull back a 1 goal deficit and draw this match. The equalizing goal was scored by Shea Gordan, ably assisted by Connor Murtagh who produced a cross into the box.

Knowing they were out of the Cup Competition did not cause the Dungannon boys to drop their head as the Trophy Competition was still open to them.

Sunday saw them take on Gleniffer Thistle where DUY beat them 4 - 2, although the score line could have been bigger with the amount of possession DUY had. Goal scorers were: Connor Murtagh (2), Daniel Kerr (1) and Paul Donaghy (1).

The under 11’s had a couple of hours rest before having to play Red Rose Juniors in the semi final. Tensions were high in this match and nerves played a big part, seeing the DUY boys go behind on 2 occasions, but with determination and grit, they pulled the match back and in the last couple of minutes netted the winner! Daniel Kerr (1) and Shea Gordan (2) were the scorers in this match.

Early Monday morning saw the final of the Trophy Competition where DUY met their earlier conquerors, Hamilton Accies once again. On this occasion the tables were turned. Once again Daniel Kerr and Shea Gordan got the goals that counted. 2 - 1 was the final score line, in Dungannon’s favour.

Afterwards manager Joe McAree said that Shea Gordan’s and Daniel Kerr’s goals were goals worthy to win any final. His assistant Tony Courtney also added that “all the players had moments of brilliance, but their greatest asset were their team spirit, determination and never say die attitude. All the players gave their all.”

Although it was an extremely difficult decision, Manager Joe McAree named Naoise Martin as his player of the tournament for his hard work, drive and phenomenal work rate over the 6 games. Well done Naoise

!

Congratulations to the team on fantastic performances on the pitch and excellent behaviour off the pitch!