SUPERCUPNI: County Armagh boys crowned Globe champions

A Ryan Latifi goal and Adam McAlpine penalty save proved crucial to help County Armagh finish the SuperCupNI week as Junior Globe champions.
Jack Adamson (right) on the attack for County Armagh's junior squad in the SuperCupNI Globe final against County Down. Pic by PressEye Ltd.Jack Adamson (right) on the attack for County Armagh's junior squad in the SuperCupNI Globe final against County Down. Pic by PressEye Ltd.
Jack Adamson (right) on the attack for County Armagh's junior squad in the SuperCupNI Globe final against County Down. Pic by PressEye Ltd.

The county sides of Armagh and Down entered the final having strong links across both camps at club level in a fitting showcase for the domestic game’s growing strength.

County Down took the lead in the closing seconds of the first half but substitute Ryan Latifi added another goal to his week’s scoreboard to level the final after the break.

County Armagh converted nine successful spot-kicks before McAlpine proved the hero with a superb save to seal a 9-8 shoot-out success.

The County Armagh penalty scorers were McAlpine, Daniel Gordon, Jack Adamson, Jack McIvor, Chris Hutchinson, Scott McCann, Ryan Carmichael, Alberto Balde and Latifi.

“It is a great feeling for the boys to have finished the week with a trophy,” said County Armagh coach Dean McCullough. “The coaching staff and players of the two camps would know each other quite well, with many even club-mates.

“The final save was a big moment for Adam and Ryan has scored goals not only across the tournament but the whole trial and warm-up period.

“No matter the outcome, penalty kicks can be a tough way to settle a final for young boys so they all deserve credit.”

COUNTY ARMAGH: Adam McAlpine (Glenavon), Daniel Gordon (Portadown Youth), Jack Adamson (Portadown Youth), Lee Upton (Portadown Youth), Jack McIvor (Glenavon), Patrick Kerr (Armagh City), Rioghan Crawford (Lurgan Celtic), Chris Hutchinson (Portadown Youth), Scott McCann (Loughgall Youth), Ryan Carmichael (Loughgall Youth), Alberto Balde (Portadown Youth). SUB (used): Ryan Latifi (Portadown Youth).