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Down's U14s got their Festival of football campaign underway on Saturday with a trip to Donegal.
After their first round of fixtures were cancelled a few weeks ago the U14s were looking forward to the challenge of taking on Donegal and Antrim.
A large panel took part in two highly competitive games, with sides not only battling each other, but also the elements.
Down faced Antrim in the first game. Horrendous wind and rain conditions made this game a real battle. Although under pressure, Down’s defence was excellent on the day. The whole team worked hard as a unit to close down Antrim’s attacks and take control of the game. Cool heads and great finishes for a couple of Down goals made the difference as the Mourne ladies pulled ahead of Antrim and secured a four point win.
Antrim and Donegal drew in the second game, 9 points apiece. Down then faced home side Donegal. With the wind and rain not letting up and two games already played on it, the pitch was now very heavy. However dispite these conditions both teams played some outstanding football. Donegal edged ahead of Down and despite a fantastic second half performance from Down where they were well on top, they couldn't get past a very strong Donegal side narrowly losing by two points points 2-05 (11) to 1-06 (9).
A great day out and valuable development experience for this young tallented panel.
Speaking after the game Down U14 manager Stevie McCoey said "I'm so proud of the girls today. They battled superbly in both games in very wet & cold conditions. We were under pressure in both games at times, but played some outstanding football which is what we expect from this talented group. In terms of effort they gave it their all. These girls still have more gears to go through and we're really looking forward to training on Tuesday & next weeks home games .The girls are all in great spirits"
