Caragh makes history with international football team

The Hillsborough girl recently lined up against Belgium in the Euro qualifiers in Dressel aged just 15 years and 121 days - and was voted player of the match.

Caragh, who attends Friends School, admitted she was a little apprehensive on her international debut.

“I was nervous before the start but I have to thank coach Alfie Wylie for having the confidence to pick me,” said Caragh. “It was a great honour and a great experience. Hopefully I can keep improving and help the team as much as I can.”

Caragh started football when she was aged 7 and played mainly in a boys league. “I suppose my dad and brother really influenced me regarding playing football. I played alongside boys and although they were physically bigger and stronger than me I really feel it helped me improve as a player.

“I played for the ladies under-15 squad when I was 13 and really I have never looked back. It does take a lot of time, as much as five to six days a week are devoted to football, but Friends are very understanding. I would love to go to America on a sports scholarship but we will have to see what happens.”

Not only did Caragh set the record with her first cap, she was also voted player of the match. “That was a big bonus and nice to know I played well and helped the team,” she added.

The Liverpool fan, who can play on either wing, is off on international duty again on Sunday with the NI team at the Cyprus Cup with group games against New Zealand on February 25, South Korea on March 1 and South Africa on March 4.

NI Ladies International coach Alfie Wylie is delighted at Caragh’s progress. “When the chance came along Caragh stepped up and had an excellent debut,” said Alfie. “She is one of a number of young players coming through the ranks which shows we have a bright future in ladies football at this level.

“Caragh attended the Excellence Programme since she was 11 and all the hard work from her coaches has paid off. She is great girl both on and off the field and is a credit to her parents and school. With the Cyprus Cup coming up Caragh and the rest of the squad have the chance to play against teams from four continents which is a wonderful opportunity.”

Not content to excel at one sport, Caragh is multi talanted. She also plays netball, hockey and is an 800 metre runner at Friends.