The Portadown College U16 Girl’s football team has emerged victorious in their respective Schools’ Cup Final held today (Tuesday).
They clinched the 1-0 victory against Kilkeel High School this morning at the showdown in the National Football Stadium at Windsor Park.
It kicked off at 10:45am and was followed by the U18 Boys Schools’ Cup Final, when Our Lady and St Patrick’s College Knock took home the trophy against Integrated College, Dungannon.
The Portadown College side had made it through to the final, organised by the Northern Ireland Schools’ Football Association and hosted by the Irish Football Association, after competing in a semi-final event at The Dub in Belfast.
In the semi-final, each school was placed in a group with five other schools, with the group winners securing a place in the final.
The PC team made it through their group without conceding a single goal.
On Tuesday, an early strike from Portadown College’s Leah Roney proved decisive in the end following good build-up.
The POTM award was secured by Kilkeel keeper Zara Maguire who frustrated the attack with a string of saves.
Speaking to Armagh I in the aftermath of the big win, Portadown College Principal Gillian Gibb commented: “In PC’s centenary year, we are delighted that the U16 girls’ team enjoyed such a memorable experience against a very competitive Kilkeel side at the National Stadium this morning.
“Congratulations to the students and staff involved, particularly our coaches Mr Mark Andrews and Mrs Judith Baird. A special word of thanks goes to our supporters, including students, staff, relatives and members of the wider PC community who travelled to Belfast to cheer on the team.
“We are very proud indeed of the girls for securing victory in the home of Northern Ireland football!”
Congratulating the team on their achievement, Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart said: “What a win for Portadown College U16 Girl’s Football Team today at Windsor Park in the first ever Danske Bank UK U16 Schools’ Cup Champions!
“These girls played exceptional football and the supporters were in top form. A real honour to be invited and enjoy the celebrations.”
