Young players display their skills at Inter-pro level

Both Ulster sides missed out on their respective titles despite beating the eventual winners Leinster.

In the U18 category Garvey’s Andy Allen and Adam Fallis will be particularly disappointed as the U18’s only needed a draw in their final game against Munster to seal victory. Despite a dominant performance where both Adam and Andy delivered great games, the U18’s were unable to convert any of their numerous chances, including a last second penalty stroke. The Munster goalkeeper was deservedly man of the match but it left Ulster to rue their missed opportunities.

In the U16 category, Friends’ 1st XI stars, Matthew Sullivan and Jack Henderson were named captain and vice-captain which is a rare honour for one school to be awarded both positions. Both players contributed a goal when Ulster had a poor start against Munster to force their side back into tournament contention.

Jack Wilson, from Wallace, was also returning for his second year at this age group and was particularly impressive throughout the weekend. His pace and ability to beat his marker made him a real handful in every game. The two Jack’s and Matthew are all expected to progress to another year at the Ireland U16 level. David Morris was unfortunately unwell during the weekend but despite coming down with flu had an excellent game against Leinster U16’s on the Saturday afternoon in what was a must win match for Ulster. David saw a lot of the ball and ensured that his opposite number had a torrid time throughout. Sean Murray and Ryan Getty are both only 14 so will be expected to have another chance with the U16’s next season.

Despite their relative inexperience at this level both Sean and Ryan played their part. Sean Murray put in a powerful performance against Leinster where he, Jack Wilson and David Morris tormented the Leinster defence as Ulster ran out comfortable 2-0 winners.

Ulster’s inability to convert their plentiful short corners to goals was their downfall and unfortunately Leinster pipped them to the U16 title on goal difference despite Ulster thrashing Munster 6-3 in their final game.