Our U16's faced strong opposition on Bank Holiday Monday as they welcomed former Premier side Listowel Celtic to Murt Scott Park. Down 2 key players, the lads put in a fantastic shift against a team that got to the last 32 of the National Cup.

Ballyhar got off to a solid start, despite pressure from the visitors. The backline of Conor Regan, Conrad Long, Conor Giles, and Jamie Fleming were outstanding all game with Eoin O'Mahony in goals making some vital saves. And it was O'Mahony who provided the assist for the breakthrough goal as his long kick out bounced over the Listowel backline, and Anthony Cremin raced onto it to slot home inside 10 mins. Listowel always looked dangerous in attack with their forwards fast and skilful on the ball. The equalising goal came from a shot outside the box on 15 minutes, and Listowel took the lead a few minutes later when O'Mahony attempted to clear his lines only for Listowel to block it and force the ball home through a crowd of players. 1-2. Ballyhar tried to settle and go again with Ross Lally and Lee Cirillo to the fore, while Tom Costelloe broke up lots of ball in front of the back 4. But five mins before halftime, a mazy run down the right past 4 players from saw their No.10 get off a shot that O'Mahony saved initially, but the ball fell kindly for a green & white shirt who tucked the rebound home. H/T 1-3

The 2nd half began with Ballyhar again trying to work some opportunities, with Cremin battling hard. He won a corner on 50 minutes, and his cross eventually fell to Conrad Long, who smashed it past the keeper. 2-3 That was as close as Ballyhar got, as Listowel took over the game, with strong running from midfield & up front, scoring 4 more goals as well as hitting the crossbar. F/T 2-7

All things considered, the lads gave a good account of themselves, playing some great stuff against a very strong side. Best for Ballyhar were Conrad Long, Eoin O'Mahony, Ross Lally, and MOTM Conor Giles - who was outstanding at centre back against their best player.