Battling Colts lose out to Lisburn Youth

From the start Carrick looked positive even though they were still missing the injured Lewis Patterson. The return of Dylan Hanley strengthened the defence and he used his height and power on numerous occasions. Cameron Long and Ethan Hall were also strong at the back.

And, with captain Nathan Swain playing as an attacking defender, Carrick pushed forward, surprising their opposition.

On the wings Scott Gardner and Gavin Anderson looked impressive, supplying Owen Barrons and Scott Wilson who were causing problems for the Lisburn defence.

Andrew Martin, who was impressive in his new role in midfield, and Gavin Anderson both had shots which went just wide. At the other end, Aaron MacFarlane pulled off an excellent save stopping a goal-bound shot. However, nothing could stop a well-taken corner which was scrambled across the line to put Lisburn one up.

Nicholas Mulholland’s excellently taken header beat the keeper and appeared to have crossed the line before being cleared by a defender. The referee was unmoved and play was waved on.

In the second half Andrew Martin’s shot clipped the crossbar and went over. The Colts were doing everything right but could not get the final touch required. Pushing forward for the elusive goal, Carrick got caught out and Lisburn scored a second goal.

With 10 minutes to go a beautifully weighted ball was put through for Scott Wilson to chase. Using his pace, he got to the ball first and appeared to be felled by the keeper. Again, however, the referee was unmoved. Wilson was unable to continue and had to leave the pitch.

Subs Gareth Rees, Marcus Baird and Dara Devine all took up the challenge of getting their side back in the hunt but they were unable to turn the scoreline around.

Colts’ Man of the Match: Aaron MacFarlane who produced quality saves.

Squad: A Macfarlane, N Swain, A Martin, E Hall, D Hanley, S Gardner, O Barrons, C Long, N Mulholland, S Wilson, M Baird, D Devine, G Rees and G Anderson.