Derry pair key to Northern Ireland's success in Cyprus

A pair of Derry men were key to Northern Ireland’s success at a UEFA development tournament in Cyprus.

Jay McCafferty and Liam Kelly featured throughout the tournament as Northern Ireland Under 15s faced off against Finland, Cyprus, and Hungary.

Northern Ireland began the tournament perfectly, defeating the hosts 3-1, controlling the game right from the off.

Kelly would start the fixture while McCafferty would watch the kick-off from the sideline but would be introduced into the action off the bench in the second half.

In the second fixture they would come up against strong opposition in Hungary, with the match ending in a draw.

McCafferty would be drafted in to start this match, with Kelly keeping his spot.

However, the fixture did not get off to the greatest of starts as Northern Ireland fell behind in the opening five minutes, but they would fight back to earn a draw when a penalty was awarded in the second half that was coolly dispatched by Michael Mulholland.

The final game is where they secured the tournament when they beat Finland 3-1.

Yet, it was a slow start by Northern Ireland, as they struggled to get to grips with their opponents and deservedly found themselves behind at half-time. 

The underage Green and White Army came out in the second half as an entirely different team, increasing their intensity and intent, with the reward being three goals to earn them their second victory and the competition.

St. Columb’s College took to Facebook to congratulate their student McCafferty.

They said: “Congratulations to Jay McCafferty, part of our Year 10 football team. For the last eight days, Jay has been taking part in the Cyprus 2024 UEFA development tournament as part of the U15 Northern Ireland football squad. After some great results, including integral performances by Jay, they emerged overall winners. Well done, Jay and teammates.”