Town U15s edged out by counter-attacking Swifts

Town Juniors U15s travelled to Tandragee to face Markethill Swifts last Saturday morning in dreadful conditions and lost a tight game 3-2.

In the early stages, the Juniors tried to get into their passing rhythm but this was proving difficult with the wind coming at them hard and fast.

They did manage to put pressure on Markethill early on and press them back, however some strong defending kept the Juniors’ attacks at bay.

Markethill launched some good attacks of their own, although the Juniors back line also remained resolute. The combination of Jordan Walker and Caleb Schiess in midfield spurred Town’s attacking force, while Michael Rafferty and Adam Dickson kept Markethill at bay.

The first half ran on and looked like the scores would be level at the break. However, on 33 minutes, Markethill swung in a corner and despite the best efforts of the Juniors, the ball crept over the line.

With the wind at their backs, the Juniors were soon level when three minutes into the second half, Liam Farrell latched on to a perfect through ball to slot home the equaliser.

Despite a large amount of pressure, the Juniors were unable to capitalise on their chances, with Liam Farrell and Owen Byrne only being denied by the Markethill keeper.

The Juniors pushed higher and higher up the pitch sensing a goal but Markethill caught them on the counter attack and restored their lead. With the game running on into the last 10 minutes, the Juniors found themselves 3-1 down when Markethill hit them on the break yet again.

The Juniors threw everything they had at Markethill looking for a lifeline, which they managed to find seven minutes from the end through Michael Rafferty who thundered a shot in from 25 yards.

Town pushed for another equaliser as Markethill hung on, however couldn’t get themselves level before the final whistle. This week’s Man of the Match was centre back Michael Rafferty who put in another outstanding display capped off with scoring the goal of the match.

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