Northern Ireland 1-3 Republic of Ireland 

Northern Ireland U15 girls team narrowly lost in their first game of the Bob Docherty cup against Republic of Ireland. NI started brightly getting forward in the very early stages of what proved to be a competitive battle of two neighbouring teams. ROI soon came into their own in the middle of the first half when they capitalised on a defensive error to score the first goal of the game. They then doubled their lead minutes later with a controversial goal and then went on to dominate the remaining 10 minutes of the first half. NI came out fighting in the second half determined to get back in the game and got their rewards half way through the second half with a well worked free kicked converted by Megan Bell. The goal gives NI lots of belief as they push for the equaliser. With Ni’s numbers pushed forward they were caught by an ROI counter attack conceding a third goal with almost the last kick of the game. Final score ROI 3 – 1 NI.

 Double Header for Under 15 Team

 The Northern Ireland Under 15 team is expecting a stern test in their contests against Belgium next week.  The teams meet at Queens Malone Playing Fields on Tuesday 5 April, kick off 4.00pm, while Knockbreda is the venue for the second encounter two days later, also with a 4.00pm start.

 Under 15 Manager Darren Murphy is relishing the prospect of taking on Belgium.  "The boys have been working very well throughout the season with training sessions every week. However, it will be a real test of their ability to play against the country which is currently top of the world rankings".

 Murphy has named a squad of 20 for the two games and for most of the players this will be their first taste of international football.  However, five players were called up for the Under 16 internationals against Norway four months ago and their experience will be invaluable against a top Belgian team.

 The Northern Ireland Schools’ Football Association is offering free entrance to any school or youth group wishing to attend these games.  Any group wishing to gain free entrance should send their details by email to Edwin Ferris, NISFA Treasurer, at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to obtain a group permit.