Release Date: 22/02/2010

It’s the “Clash of the Champions” at Comber on Friday 26 February when the Northern Ireland Schools U18 team takes on England in the opening game of the Centenary Shield competition, kick off 1.00pm.

Last season Northern Ireland shared the title with Englandand Under 18 Manager, Bob Ramsey is in no doubt that Friday’s match will have a significant bearing on the outcome of this season’s competition.  “We proved last season by coming back from a loss to the Republic that one defeat does not end your championship hopes but it would certainly make it more difficult to retain the title.” said Ramsey.

“At international level you expect every match to be difficult but games against England are especially challenging.  Last season 1-0 victory in Macclesfield was our first success against the English in four years.  Before then our record had been excellent with 5 wins and a draw in 8 meetings and I am hoping that we can put together another run of victories against England.” added the Manager.

The Under 18 team began the season with a 1-1 draw againstAustralia in January before going to Jersey where they defeated the hosts 1-0 and 5-1 to retain the Lynn Nicholson Trophy.  “The games in Jersey are always a very important part of our preparation for the Centenary Shield and the two victories there will be a big boost to the team’s confidence” added Ramsey.

The kick off has been brought forward to 1 o’clock so that local schools can bring along a large support and Schools’ Officials are expecting a bumper crowd.

« Go Back