U12s can take confidence from their first half display

After a very impressive first half performance and a goal to the good, the Juniors were unable to keep up the level of intensity to see the game out.

In the early exchanges Town weathered the Loughgall attack, in particular Ross Shields and Jordan Wilkinson both playing in the full back positions, got in tackles and kept danger from the Town goal.

Keeper Michael McGrath showed great hands catching confidently anything that came his way and finding good range with his kick outs.

As confidence grew Town began to force the issue and nearly broke the deadlock on 10 minutes when an excellent through ball from Jake Corbett found Dozie Ajeh but the striker was unable to apply the finish.

Town however got the goal they deserved after a great move that started with Shea Winters threading a good ball down the line to Dozie Ajeh who drilled in a low cross from the right to the feet of Louis McBurney to tap in from close range.

With the midfield trio of Shea Winters, David Magill and Jake Corbett all playing well and controlling the game Town looked comfortable and assured with their deserved lead.

The locals nearly got their second towards the end of the half as Jake Corbett sent Dozie Ajeh through but his shot just fizzed wide of the post.

In the early stages of the second half the Juniors held firm as Loughgall went on wave of attacks but it really was only a matter of time before the visitors would get off the mark.

This first goal came 10 minutes into the half and so began the collapse of the Juniors as Loughgall peppered the Town goal with shots and eventually scored three goals in quick succession in the space of 20 minutes.

Town held on but never really threatened the visitors goal and they added number five as the game neared conclusion.

The locals certainly showed in the first half what they are capable of, and hopefully will take this into their next game and grow in confidence for the remainder of the season.

Man of the match was Ross Shields for a fine display at right back.