Schools clash in N Irelandfinalstoday

St Columb’s College last won this title three years ago and manager, Ryan Horner is delighted to see his talented young side back in the final and with the guarantee that the Northern Ireland Cup will be brought back to the city once again.

Creggan school, St Joe’s feature in their second consecutive final in this competition and Mr Horner was full of praise for the efforts from the North West schools.

“It is fantastic testimony to the football fraternity of our city that two local schools will compete in the final,” said Mr Horner.

“This competition began way back in September 2013 with 51 schools from all over the country competing and here we are with two local schools, being the only two left standing.

“Indeed, this will be St Joseph’s second final in a row, which is a fantastic and well deserved achievement.

“I know the amount of time and energy their coaches, Sean O’Kane and Paul Gibbons put into their squad.

“They have overcome very strong opposition on the road to Ballymena, beating both Holy Cross (Strabane) and Belfast Boys’ Model so we know exactly how tough it is going to be,” he concluded.

Meanwhile St Columb’s College’s Under-16 squad will compete in the final of the Northern Ireland U16 Cup this afternoon, also at Ballymena Showgrounds as they take on St Louis, Ballymena in this year’s showpiece (KO 1pm Main pitch).

And St Joe’s will also be represented in the U12 Minor Plate Final as they take on Colaiste Feirste at 1.30pm.

While in the Girls Senior Cup Final, Thornhill College take on Holy Cross (KO 10.30am - Main Pitch).