Jersey close to holding Irish stars

Tuesday 2nd February 2010, 3:00PM GMT.

Northern Ireland’s David Hume challenges Jersey U18s’ Scott Welsh at Springfield last night Picture: ROB CURRIE (00882779)

JERSEY’S under-18 footballers produced a fine all round team performance last night in a 1-0 defeat by Northern Ireland Schools’ Football Association’s U18 Centenary Shield squad.

The only goal came early in the game and despite a younger-looking Jersey side creating few opportunities throughout, they finished strongly and only a fine save by goalkeeper Darren Gibbons denied substitute Charlie Petulla snatching a late equaliser.

For the goal, Jersey defender Alex Haine made a well-timed tackle on an opponent just inside a penalty area. However the ball popped up and dropped into the path of Sam Boylan and he made no mistake with a well-struck low shot just inside a post from 22 yards.

Jersey manager Dave Walsh said: ‘I was very pleased with our performance; it’s good to see our players holding their own and producing what is required to play at a higher level.’

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