Wee Whites storm back in style

Although mini-soccer isn’t about results and this is emphasised regularly to the players, it would be unfair to both teams not to make a mention of it on this occasion.

Aquinas were excellent in the first period and deservedly raced into a 5-0 lead. A word of encouragment from the Distillery coaching staff at the interval seemed to have the desired effect and period two saw the Whites storm back into the contest inspired by a superb midfield display from Calum Ashby. Calum pulled two goals back one of which was a stunning right foot finish from distance and linked up superbly with Ben Gilliland and Kenzie Bradley to urge the Wee Whites forward. The game was now end to end and Xander Power had to be on top of his game in the Distillery goal to tip a rasping shot over the bar.

Noah Perry was pushing forward looking for a goal but it was Calum who took his tally to four for the day with another two smart finishes. The game ended in drama when Whites defender Michael Rocks stepped forward and hit a rocket of a shot into the top corner from all of 25 yards to make it 5-5, the ball hadn’t settled in the net when the final whistle went and Michael was mobbed by his delirious team-mates, what a game!

The second game was a really tight encounter with North Belfast, indeed the opposition striker had a great start to the game getting himself a couple of goals and causing the Distillery rearguard numerous problems but as the game progressed Noah Kelly, Ben Coulter and Jonathan McCullough worked really hard and managed to keep the shackles on the live wire forward. Jake Donaghy was having an increasing influence on the game and at times his opponents needed to use foul means to stop him. Bradley Ingram’s pace and power on the right were causing problems and Ross White benefitted by helping himself to a hat-trick.

Although the Wee Whites were on top and the tall North Belfast keeper was very busy Lewis Doyle still had to make a few excellent saves to keep Distillery in the game. A moment of hesitancy in the Whites defence allowed their opponents to complete the scoring. Although not at their best the Whites worked extremely hard against difficult opposition and after going behind they always believed in their ability to get goals no matter who they are playing against. A great seasons progress from the U-9s and the coaching staff would like to thank all the parents/grandparents/friends and family for their continued support.