Junior 7 A Side Competition - November 2008

A bit later than normal, but the Junior 7 a Side Football Competition always kicks off the East Antrim Battalion football season and this season was no exception. A lot of interest in the competition was shown this year and eleven teams registered to play but unfortunately, for various reasons, 5 companies were unable to make it on the day leaving six companies to fight for the title won by 5th Carrick last year.

The afternoon went really well and the new venue in Carrick was the perfect venue (thanks to Paul Mawhinney at Carrick Council and Carrick Rangers for arranging this). Apart from 1st Ballyclare and 1st Greenisland/4th Carrick, who had to battle to avoid the wooden spoon, the other four teams seemed able to beat each other and so a really tight competition ensued. Best match of the afternoon was possibly the 2-2 draw between 1st Raloo and 5th Carrick. Both team were in with a shout at winning the competition at that point and the tense battle between the two companies was great to watch, with both teams having the lead at a point.

In the end, if 1st Raloo avoided defeat against 1st Ballyclare in their last match, they would be champions. They duly dispatched their opposition 2-0 and claimed the Junior 7 A Side crown for the first time in their companies history.

7th Carrick finished runners up for the second year running, with 8th Carrick claiming third place. Incidentally, the wooden spoon went to 1st Ballyclare, who failed to score all afternoon. 1st Greenisland/4th Carrick finished above them on goal difference and claimed the loudest roar of the afternoon when scoring their two goals. 5th Carrick finished fourth.

The competition was played in a great spirit and there was a super atmosphere about the place all afternoon. Credit must go to the boys and officers from each company for making the afternoon so enjoyable. Thanks also to Harry and Gary, two very willing referees who gave up their Saturday afternoon to help the Boys' Brigade.