2024/2025 Season

Loughgall Reserves 0-6 Glentoran Seconds (30 September 2024)

The Seconds bounced back superbly to a couple of defeats with this outstanding performance and comprehensive win at Lakeview Park tonight.

The Glens took the lead on 5 minutes through Cillian McCann. Despite Glentoran dominance that was the only goal of the first half but the main course was still to come.

It didn’t take too long after the break for the Glens to double the lead and it was McCann again with his second of the night on 48 minutes. 3 minutes later Jude Johnson made it 3 with his fourth of the season.

In the next period the Glens suffered a few controversial decisions but the performance never dropped, both before and after a series of substitutions. 3 more goals in the last 10 minutes gave the boys the scoreline their performance deserved. These all came from substitutes – Jacko Watson (83 minutes), Killian McCandless (88) and Caolan Hardy (89).

A great performance and a great night for everyone involved.
 

 

Goalscorers Cillian McCann, Jude Johnson and Jacko Watson

Killian McCandless and Caolan Hardy

Glentoran Seconds:  Milo Beimers, Jayden Charnley, Ciaran Rogers-Duffy (Captain), Darragh Copeland, Jack Faloona, Owen O’Neill, Tony McIlhone, Cal McGloin, Cillian McCann, Jude Johnson and James McClure

Subs: Caolan Hardy (for McCann 65), Ryan Bailie (for O’Neill 65), Aaron Mackel (for McGloin 56) Jack Watson (for Johnson 65), Killian McCandless (for McClure 58).

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Glentoran Seconds 2-3 Ballymena United Reserves (23 September 2024)

A disappointing night for the Seconds at Ashfield tonight as despite coming back from behind they were unable to react to a third United goal in the 33 remaining minutes.

Glens’ goals came from Jude Johnson and James McClure in the first half. The boys were at a disadvantage from the 42nd minute when – with the scores level – Theo McToal received a controversial red card after the referee claimed he kicked out at an opponent.

MATCH REPORT TO FOLLOW

 

Goalscorers Jude Johnson and James McClure

Glentoran Seconds:  Milo Beimers, Theo McToal, Ciaran Rogers-Duffy (Captain), Jayden Charnley, Jack Faloona, Owen O’Neill, Caolan Hardy, Tony McIlhone, Cillian McCann, Jude Johnson and Jack Watson.

Subs: Cal McGloin (for McIlhone 71), Ryan Bailie (for Johnson 71),  Aaron Mackel (for Watson 71) Cillian McCann (for Hardy 71), Killian McCandless (for McClure 71).

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Glentoran Seconds 1-2 Dungannon Swifts Reserves (16 September 2024)

2 goals in the final 11 minutes cost the Seconds all 3 points at Ashfield tonight in the NIFL U20 Premiership Development League.

Jude Johnson had given the Glens a 62nd minute lead, but late ones from Ben Kelly and Troy Lucas sent the Swifts home with all 3 points.

MATCH REPORT TO FOLLOW

Goalscorer Jude Johnson

 

Glentoran Seconds:  Milo Beimers, Theo McToal, Ciaran Rogers-Duffy (Captain), Callan Farley, Jack Faloona, Owen O’Neill, Caolan Hardy, Tony McIlhone, Cillian McCann, Jude Johnson and Killian McCandless.

Subs: Darragh Copeland, Cal McGloin (for McCann 70), Ryan Bailie, Jayden Charnley (for Johnson 70), James McClure (for McCandless 70), Jack Watson (for McToal 70).

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Cliftonville Olympic 1-2 Glentoran Seconds (9th September 2024)

The Seconds leapfrogged Cliftonville in the .NIFL U20 Premiership Development League with this win at Solitude tonight.

A double from Killian McCandless was enough to see the Glens through.His first opened the scoring after just 5 minutes when Jude Johnston stole the ball in midfield, made a direct run and played in Tony McIlhone on the overlap. Tony clipped the ball to the back post for McCandless to head home.

From that the Wee Glens had to weather a lengthy period od Cliftonville domination and a lot of pressure on Milo Beimers’ goal. The Glens defended the box resolutely in numbers and made some very important blocks to hold the lead into half time.

The Reds finally equalised on 52mins when they broke into the box down from the right. And scored through Shay Reid.

But the second half was a much more even affair and after a period of pressure the Glens lead was restored on 65 minutes with what turned out to be the winning goal. Again this one involved Tony McIlhone and Killian McCandless as Tony broke clear, knocked a cross ball to the back post where Killiam was waiting to confidently direct the ball back across the keeper into the far corner.

In a tough battled the young team showed a togetherness to defend when necessary, win our battles all over the pitch and finish clinically when the opportunities arose..

Double goalscorer Killian McCandless

Glentoran Seconds:  Milo Beimers, Cillian McCann, Theo McToal, Ciaran Rogers-Duffy (Captain), Darragh Copeland, Owen O’Neill, Cal McGloin, Ryan Bailie, Tony McIlhone, Jude Johnson and Killian McCandless.

Subs: Caolan Hardy,  (for McCandless 70), Jack Faloona (for Bailie 58), James McClure (for McCann 70), Calum Trainor (for Copeland 70), Cal Weatherup (for McToal 70).

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Glentoran Seconds 0-2 Wakehurst (7th September 2024)

The Seconds Steel & Sons Cup Final was brought to an end at the Bet McLean Oval this afternoon by 2 late goals by Wakehurst FC from the Ballymena & Provincial Football League.

MATCH REPORT TO FOLLOW

Glentoran Seconds:  Milo Beimers, Jayden Charnley, Caolan Hardy  Ciaran Rogers-Duffy (Captain), Theo McToal, Owen O’Neill, Tony McIlhone, Callan Farley, James McClure, Jude Johnson and Jack Watson.

Subs: Ryan Bailie, Cillian McCann (for Hardy 76), Cal McGloin, (for McToal 76), Killian McCandless, Calum Trainor (for McClure 76).

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Glentoran Seconds 3-1 Carrick Rangers (2nd September 2024)

The Seconds bounced back from last week’s defeat with a strong, dominant performance and a deserved win at Ashfield tonight.  

The first half was a very good performance and it wouldn’t have flattered the Glens to come in 3 or 4 goals ahead.

The opener came on 5 mins after a great delivery from a Jude Johnston corner found skipper Ciaran Rogers-Duffy who flicked it in at the front post.

Carrick equalised after some defensive confusion but the lead was restored on 25 minutes with a goal that was the pick of the game, as after a great passage of play Cal McGloin struck from 20 yards out into the top corner to score for the third successive match..

As the second half the Glens kept control of events and on 63 mins Caolan Hardy put a pinpoint cross onto the 6-yard line for Killian McCandless to score with a great finish just 3 minutes after coming on.

 

Scorers Ciaran Rogers-Duffy, Killian McCandless and Cal McGloin

Glentoran Seconds:  Milo Beimers, Jayden Charnley, Caolan Hardy  Ciaran Rogers-Duffy (Captain), Theo McToal, Cillian McCann, Owen O’Neill, , Tony McIlhone, Cal McGloin, Calum Trainor, Jude Johnson and Jack Watson.

Subs: Ryan Bailie (for McGloin 70),  Cal Weatherup (for Trainor 60), Killian McCandless (for Watson 60), Joel Kerr (for Hardy 65), Darragh Copeland (for McToal).

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Coleraine Reserves 4-3 Glentoran Seconds (26th August 2024)

An old team mate came back to haunt the Glens tonight as Kirk McLaughlin – who left Glentoran in the summer to rejoin his hometown club – scored a hat trick to clinch this thriller for the home team.

Coleraine’s movement and work rate off the ball allowed them to dominate the midfield in the first half and the home side were 3-0 ahead 36mins after dominating for the majority of the half and punishing every mistake. Glens keeper Jack Watt made  numerous saves before Cal McGloin scored for the second successive week after a good passage of play to get us in at 3-1 before the break.

The Glens coaches asked for a reaction at half time and they certainly got one. They were well on top and pushing forward when McLaughlin scored a worldie for his hat trick against the run of play. Substitutions has a major impact as Owen O’Neill and Calum Trainor made a match of it from set pieces to pull the deficit back to one. But after 2 or 3 other decent chances and a strong possible penalty claim time ran out on the fightback.

  

Goalscorers Cal McGloin, Owen O'Neill and Calum Trainor

Glentoran Seconds:  Jack Watt, Jayden Charnley, Caolan Hardy  Ciaran Rogers-Duffy (Captain), Owen O’Neill, Ryan Bailie, Tony McIlhone, Cal McGloin, James McClure, Jude Johnson and Jack Watson.

Subs: Cillian McCann (for McGloin 65),  Cal Weatherup (for Watson 65), Calum Trainor (for McClure 46), Joel Kerr (for Bailie 65), Darragh Copeland (for Hardy 65).

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Glentoran Seconds 2-0 Portadown Reserves (19th August 2024)

Back to league business at Ashfield tonight, there were a number of changes from Saturday’s Steel Cup win. With Johnny Russell and Harry Murphy returning to first team duty there was a return for Owen O’Neill and starts for Caolan Hardy, Aaron Mackel, Calum Trainor and Cal Weatherup. Cal McGloin made his first start at this level after promotion from the Colts.

Both Glens goals came in the first half, first from Jude Johnson on 26 minutes with his second in consecutive games, then to cap a dream debut, McGloin made the game safe just before the break.

With 2 games gone the Seconds have one win and one loss.

 

Goalscorers Jude Johnson & Cal McGloin

MATCH REPORT TO FOLLOW

Glentoran Seconds:  Jack McConville, Jayden Charnley, Caolan Hardy  Ciaran Rogers-Duffy (Captain), Owen O’Neill, Aaron Mackel, Tony McIlhone, Cal McGloin, Calum Trainor, Jude Johnson, Cal Weatherup,    

Subs: Cillian McCann (for Hardy 60), Killian McCandless (for Weatherup 60), Ryan Bailie (for McGloin 70), James McClure (for Mackel 70),  Jack Watson (for Trainor 60).

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Glentoran Seconds 2-1 Wellington Rec  (17 August 2024)

The Seconds recovered from an early goal at the Bet McLean Oval today to win the tie and progress to the next round of the Steel & Sons Cup.

The visitors took the lead on 12 minutes through Mark Mundell but on the scoresheet for the Wee Glens - boosted by the presence of Johnny Russell and Harry Murphy - were Jacko Watson with an equaliser 10 minutes before half time, and Jude Johnson with a 68th minute winner.

The Glens have a record number of wins in this cup with 13. On now to the next round.

 

Scorers Jacko Watson and Jude Johnson

Glentoran Seconds:  Jack McConville, Cillian McCann, Johnny Russell,  Ciaran Rogers-Duffy (Captain),  Harry Murphy, Jayden Charnley, Ryan Bailie, Jude Johnson, Tony McIlhone, James McClure. Jack Watson,

Subs: Caolan Hardy (for Russell 75), Aaron Mackel,  (for Johnson 83), Calum Trainor (for McClure 89), Cal Weatherup, Killian McCandless

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Crusaders Reserves 2-1 Glentoran Seconds (12 August 2024)

A first half opener from James McClure wasn’t enough tonight as the seconds lost the season opener at Seaview.

The game started well with the Seconds pressing from the front. After 14 minutes the pressure paid off when Jack Watson forced a mistake as the Crues defence played out from the back. The ball broke to James McClure who finished calmly to put the Wee Glens ahead. As the half proceeded the home team pushed hard for an equaliser with the Glens spending a lot of time defending our box. The lead was held until the break but the Glens had been on the back foot  with some ill-judged decisions and unnecessary free kicks conceded.

Crusaders made two substitutions at half time and from the restart started well with more pressure put on the Glens defence. This paid off on 50 minutes when they equalised when they from an effort inside the Glens the box after a free kick from our right side.

On 65 minutes the Seconds coaching team change the two  to try to kill the Crues’ momentum but 5 minutes after the substitutions Crusaders scored what would be the winner after another free kick from our right was whipped to the front post zone,. Keeper Jack McConville palmed it out but it was scrambled it over the line.

The Glens raised our game and pushed for an equaliser but couldn’t get a goal. Two or three good opportunities were dealt with well by their keeper.

Next up is a Steel & Sons Cup second round tie with Wellington Rec this Saturday at the Oval. KO 2pm.

James McClure

Glentoran Seconds:  Jack McConville, Cillian McCann, Ciaran Rogers-Duffy (Captain), Jayden Charnley, Owen O’Neill, Aaron Mackel, Caolan Hardy, Jude Johnson, Tony McIlhone, James McClure. Jack Watson,

Subs: Ryan Bailie (for Watson 65), Calum Trainor (for Johnson 80), Cal Weatherup (for McClure 66), Dylan Hayes, Darragh Copeland.

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2023/2024 Season

Newry City Reserves 1-7 Glentoran Seconds (22nd April 2024)

The Seconds’ incredible run of form continued tonight at the Newry Showgrounds as the boys’ tenth consecutive league win means they’ve now scored 19 goals in their last 3 games with just 4 conceded.

As with last week the scoring was well spread out, opened by Killian McCandless and Cillian McCann who both scored last week v Coleraine. Last week’s hat trick hero James McClure got the third in the second half then a four-goal burst – encouragingly all from second half subs – made up the seven. These goals came from Noah Mitchell, Daniel Beatty and a double from Calum Trainor.

Well done boys!

MATCH REPORT TO FOLLOW

  

Glentoran Seconds:  Lorcan Donnelly, Theo McToal, Ciaran Rogers-Duffy, Owen O’Neill, Darragh Copeland,  Callan Farley (Captain), Cillian McCann, James Douglas, Killian McCandless, Jude Johnson, Tony McIlhone, James McClure.

Subs: Noah Mitchell (for McToal 73), Barry McKervey (for Copeland 75), Jake Drennan (for McCann 70), Daniel Beatty (for McCandless 62), Calum Trainor (for McClure 63).

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Glentoran Seconds  6-2 Coleraine Reserves (19th April 2024)

A very comfortable, hight scoring home win over the league leaders at Ashfield tonight – the team’s ninth consecutive league win – moved the Seconds into 3rd place in the NIFL U20 Premiership Development League. The big win was all the more creditable as there were no first teamers in the lineup.

The scoring was well spread out, led off by a James McClure hat trick and strikes from Cillian McCann, Killian McCandless and Tony McIlhone.

MATCH REPORT TO FOLLOW

 

Glentoran Seconds:  Lorcan Donnelly, Tony McIlhone, Owen O’Neill, Ciaran Rogers-Duffy, Callan Farley (Captain), Cillian McCann, James Douglas, Killian McCandless, Jude Johnson, James McClure.

Subs: Noah Mitchell (for Johnson 46), Jake Drennan (for McClure 76), Ryan Bailie (for Douglas 78), Calum Trainor (for McCandless 59), Cal McGloin

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Ballymena United Reserves 1-6 Glentoran Seconds (3rd April 2024)

The Seconds had a very comprehensive win at the Showgrounds this evening. Their eighth consecutive league win.

First team players Harry Murphy, Charlie Lindsay, Kirk McLaughlin and the recovering skipper Marcus Kane were all given valuable game time.

Two goals in quick succession during the first half saw the boys come in 2-0 ahead. Firstly on 30 mins Cillian McCann scored at the front post, then 2 minutes later Owen O’Neill scored from inside the box when he broke forward from defence and latched onto a Charlie Lindsay rebound off the woodwork.

The boys again dominated in he second half again with four more goals.

• 54mins Jude Johnston scored after the ball broke to him inside the box.
• 62mins Charlie Lindsay scored with a great strike from 20 yards.
• 70mins Kirk McLaughlin finished off a great shift with a goal at the back post.
• 92 mins Tony McIlhone capped his performance in style when he broke clear and finished across the keeper into the bottom corner.

The boys’ great league run continues.

 

 

Glentoran Seconds:  Lorcan Donnelly, Theo McToal, Marcus Kane (Captain), Harry Murphy, Owen O’Neill, Callan Farley, Cillian McCann, Tony McIlhone,  Kirk McLaughlin, Charlie Lindsay. Jude Johnson,

Subs: Ciaran Rogers-Duffy (for Kane 62), Aaron Mackel (for McCann 75), Barry McKervey (for Lindsay 62), Calum Trainor (for McLaughlin 70), Cal Weatherup (for McToal 75)

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Glentoran Seconds 3-2 Dungannon Swifts Reserves (25th March 2024)

A seventh consecutive league win for the seconds and another smashing performance at Ashfield this evening when they displayed plenty of determination to never give up.

The first half started brightly with both teams working hard to gain the advantage. On 21 minutes Calum Trainor put us one up from the penalty spot after being hauled down when Jude Johnston made a great attacking run at Dungannon’s defence. The Swifts drew level on 35mins to see out the half with one goal each.

On 65 minutes the Seconds conceded a poor goal from a corner kick to put Dungannon 2-1 up. The young glens regrouped and showed plenty of heart and desire. The changes and substitutions certainly paid off deep into injury time when on 95 mins Jack Watson popped up with the equaliser after great pressure from Callan Farley.

It was just 60 seconds later when the young glens collected all three points when Owen O’Neill who had been pushed up top finished the job off by scoring the winner from inside the 6-yard box.

Glentoran Seconds:  Lorcan Donnelly, Theo McToal, Caolan Hardy, Owen O’Neill, Ciaran Rogers-Duffy, Callan Farley (captain), Cillian McCann, Noah Mitchell, Jude Johnson, Tony McIlhone, Calum Trainor.

Subs , Jacko Watson (for Mitchell 8),  Aaron Mackel, Barry McKervey, Ryan Bailie, Darragh Copeland.

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Glentoran Seconds 7-3 Loughgall Reserves (18 March 2024)

A game of two halves at Ashfield on Monday night as the Seconds came back from 3-1 down  to record this very comprehensive victory, their sixth consecutive win..

Loughall started the brighter in the first half and went 2-0 up. In the dying minutes of the half there was a flurry of goals, the young Glens pulled a goal back when skipper Callan Farley scored from a corner kick to get it back to 2-1. Loughalls experienced Ryan Waide then scored a worldie to go 3-1 up, only for the impressive Caolan Hardy to score right before the whistle to pull score line back to 3-2 Loughall.

Second half the young Glens raised their levels, four second half goals and a Loughall own goal swung the game. James McClure kept up his recent run of good form hitting a second half hat trick while Calum Trainor scored his first reserve team goal.

  

Glentoran Seconds:  Lorcan Donnelly, Theo McToal, Caolan Hardy, Dylan Hayes, Ciaran Rogers-Duffy, Callan Farley (captain), Cillian McCann, Noah Mitchell, Jacko Watson, Tony McIlhone, James McClure.

Subs Aaron Mackel (for Hayes 77), Barry McKervey (for McCann 77), Calum Trainor (for Watson 67), Ryan Bailie (for Mitchell 77).

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Glentoran Seconds 1-0 Larne Olympic (11 March 2024)

A 72nd minutegoal from Jacko Watson at Ashfield this evening gave the seconds their fifth consecutive win.

MATCH REPORT TO FOLLOW

Glentoran Seconds:  Lorcan Donnelly, Theo McToal, Caolan Hardy, Owen O’Neill, Ciaran Rogers-Duffy, Callan Farley (captain), Cillian McCann, Noah Mitchell, Jude Johnson, Tony McIlhone, James McClure

Subs Aaron Mackel (for Johson 84), Barry McKervey (for McCann 74), Jacko Watson (for Mitchell 66), Calum Trainor (for McClure 66), Ryan Bailie (for Rodgers-Duffy 74).

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Newry City Reserves 0-3 Glentoran Seconds (26 February 2024)

The Seconds had their fourth consecutive win with a good solid performance for the reserves at Newry Showgrounds

The young glens took the lead in the first half when a Killian McCandless cross found Caolan Hardy at the back post. He headed into the net with ease to take us in one up at half time.

After the break, the boys added two more goals with Killian McCandless heading in from the 6-yard box. James McClure added another goal to his impressive run of form with a 20-yard volley with his first touch of the game.

   

Glentoran Seconds:  Lorcan Donnelly, Theo McToal, Caolan Hardy, Owen O’Neill, Harry Murphy, Callan Farley (captain), Cillian McCann, Luke Doran, Killian McCandless, Jude Johnson, Tony McIlhone.

Subs Noah Mitchell (for Murphy 67), James McClure (for McCann 75), Jacko Watson (for Doran 75), Calum Trainor (for McCandless 67), Ryan Bailie (for Johnson 80).

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Carrick Rangers Reserves 1-2 Glentoran Seconds (19 February 2024)

Monday nights league fixture was reserved to Ashfield with Glentoran Reserves hosting Carrick Reserves. For the second week in succession the Seconds fought back from a deficit to win the 3 points with 2 goals in the last 5 minutes.

Once again it proved to be a very competitive and exciting game. The young reserves showed a lot of character and fought to the end to claim all three points.

The first half was evenly contested with neither team able to hit the target, but the second saw Carrick take the lead on 68mins from the penalty spot. Lorcan Donnelly came to collect a cross and was deemed to foul Carrick’s striker in the process.

The decision to make subs quickly and change formation ultimately changed the momentum of the game. The young Glens raised their game and pushed for the equaliser. Caolan Hardy scored on 86mins when his header looped over the keeper into the top corner.

The winning goal came in injury time when James McClure broke the offside trap and volleyed from 20+ yards over the keepers head. A wonderful strike worthy to win any game.

 

Glentoran Seconds:  Lorcan Donnelly, Theo McToal, Caolan Hardy, Owen O’Neill, Callan Farley (captain), Noah Mitchell,  Cillian McCann, Luke Doran, Killian McCandless, Jude Johnson, Tony McIlhone.

Subs Ciaran Rogers-Duffy (for Farley 72),  James McClure (for Mitchell 63), Aaron Mackel (for McIlhone 81), Calum Trainor (for McCandless 81), Ryan Bailie (for Doran 81).

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Glentoran Seconds 1-1 Crusaders Reserves (12th February 2024)

A second consecutive injury time goal from Jacko Watson proved vital for the Wee Glens as tonight it equalised a 90th minute opener from Crusaders’ Bradley Maguire.

The first half was an even affair with neither team really creating any clear cut chances.

After the break the game opened with more chances for both sides, however it was only in the dying minutes when the deadlock was broken. Crusaders took the lead on 90mins after a long range effort moved across goal and beat Lorcan Donnelly.

The young Glens once again showed great character and equalised on 93mins when Caolan Hardy squared a pass inside the 6 yard to Jack Watson. Watson finished calmly to take a share of the points.

 

Glentoran Seconds:  Lorcan Donnelly, Theo McToal, Owen O’Neill, Harry Murphy, Callan Farley (captain), Josh Kelly, Aaron Wightman, James Douglas, Killian McCandless, Jude Johnson, Tony McIlhone (captain).

Subs: Noah Mitchell (for Murphy 63), James McClure (for Johnson 78), Cillian McCann (for Kelly 63), Caolan Hardy (for Wightman 63), Jacko Watson (for McCandless 78).

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Glentoran Seconds 2-1 Glenavon Reserves (29 January 2024)

A  brilliant performance from our young reserve side seen them come away with a well deserved 2-1 victory over a Glenavon team containing the very experienced senior players Mark Haughey and Danny Wallace.

Glenavon took the lead late in first half with a back post header from former Linfield player Mark Haughey.

Second half the boys kept themselves in the game with a great work ethic all over the pitch. The equaliser came with 15 minutes to go when the ball fell to Caolan Hardy inside the box. His left foot strike hit the bottom corner giving the keeper no chance.

The winning goal came in the last minute when a James McClure cross found Jacko Watson at the front post. Jacko got in front of the defender and finished with a great strike to give our boys three deserbved points.

Well done lads. A great performance and result!

 

Glentoran Seconds:  Lorcan Donnelly, Theo McToal, Caolan Hardy, Ciaran Rogers-Duffy, Darragh Copeland, Ryan Bailie, Cillian McCann, Noah Mitchell, George Feeney, Killian McCandless, Tony McIlhone (captain).

Subs: Jacko Watson (for McCann 72), James McClure (for Feeney 75), Aaron Mackel (for McCandless 72), Barry McKervey (for Rogers-Duffy 75), Marcus Fitzsimons, Jamie Smyth.

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Coleraine Reserves 5-1 Glentoran Seconds (22 January 2024)

With numerous players missing on international duty a young reserve squad travelled to Coleraine showgrounds on Monday.

First half saw both teams coming in with one goal apiece. Coleraine got a penalty to go one up, three minutes later Ryan Bailies free kick was parried by Coleraine’s keeper. Cillian McCann scored off the rebound. The reserves were well in the game in the first half.

Second half Coleraine scored an early goal which helped them push on to a 5-1 victory.

A few tough results in recent weeks but the score line certainly didn’t reflect the attitude and effort on the pitch from the young reserves.

Glentoran Seconds:  Oisin Murray, Theo McToal, Caolan Hardy, Ciaran Rogers-Duffy, Darragh Copeland, Ryan Bailie, Cillian McCann, Noah Mitchell, Killian McCandless, Luke Doran, Tony McIlhone (captain).

Subs: Dylan Hayes (for McCann 75), James McClure (for Rogers-Duffy 75), Aaron Mackel (For McCandless 68), Barry McKervey (for Mitchell 68), Cal Weatherup (for Bailie 68).

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Cliftonville Olympic 2-2 Glentoran Seconds (15 January 2024)

The spoils were shared at Solitude this evening due to a 63rd minute equaliser from Cliftonville’s Padraig McVicker.

The Wee Glens deservedly went early into a 2-goal lead with goals from James Douglas and Cillian McCann. Cliftonville fought hard to stay in touch and eventually got a goal through Leon Graham goal 7 minutes before the break.

The second half was a much more even affair  with both sides creating a few chances. Cliftonville found the equaliser on 63mins with stunning free kick by McVicker from the edge of the box.

This result kept the Wee Glens in fourth place the NIFL U20 Premiership Development League, 3 points ahead of tonight’s opponents. But no doubt the reserves will be disappointed as after dominating the first half they should have been out of sight.

 

Glentoran Seconds:  Lorcan Donnelly, Theo McToal, Tony McIlhone, Harry Murphy,  Callan Farley (captain), Josh Kelly, Cillian McCann, James Douglas, Leon Boyd, Rory Donnelly, Jude Johnson.

Subs: Caolan Hardy (for Murphy 80), Owen O’Neill (for Johnson 68), Luke Doran (for McCann 80), Noah Mitchell (for Kelly 68), Killian McCandless (for Donnelly 68).

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Glentoran Seconds 0-5 Linfield Swifts (8 January 2024)

A dismal night for the Seconds as the team had no answer to Linfield Swifts and were comprehensively defeated at home. The Glens played for nearly an hour with ten men following Bailey Locke’s 37th minute red card.

Glentoran Seconds:  Lorcan Donnelly, Theo McToal, Tony McIlhone, Odrhan Bell. Harry Murphy,  Callan Farley (captain), Rhys Walsh, Bailie Locke, Leon Boyd, Jude Johnson, Casey Smyth.

Subs: Owen O’Neill (for Bell 63), Ryan Bailie (for Boyd 75), Cillian McCann (for O’Neill 75), Caolan Hardy (for Johnson 75), Killian McCandless (for Walsh 63).

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Glentoran Seconds 1-2 Dungannon Swifts Reserves (3 January 2024)

A strike from Casey Smyth just after the break wasn’t enough to avoid the Wee Glens starting 2024 with a defeat at  Ashfield.

Smyth’s goal had equalised the opener on the half hour from Adam Towe, but Daniel Barker sealed all three points for the visitors on 65 minutes.

Good news for Warren Feeney is that Harry Murphy completed the full 90 minutes on his return from long term injury.

Glentoran Seconds:  Lorcan Donnelly, Theo McToal, Ross Boyd, Odrhan Bell. Harry Murphy,  Callan Farley (captain), Noah Mitchell. Tony McIlhone, Killian McCandless, Jude Johnson, Casey Smyth.

Subs: Cal Weatherup (for Bell 60), Ciaran Rodgers-Duffy (for Boyd 45), Ryan Bailie (for Mitchell 60), Cillian McCann (for McCandless 67), James McClure (for Johnson 84).

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Glentoran Seconds 2-0 Cliftonville Olympic (18 December 2023)

A strong Seconds side including, Marcus Kane, Seanen Clucas, Rory Donnelly and Ollie Weber came up against a well structured youthful Cliftonville side at the Oval last night.

The Wee Glens took the lead on 41 mins after a smart free kick from Rory Donnelly found the run of George Feeney who finished with a smashing header.

Second half the Seconds started brightly and extended the lead on 56mins with the returning Marcus Kane getting his name on the score sheet. A few heavy tackles took their toll and forced unplanned substitutions when both Rhys Walsh and Casey Smyth had to leave the pitch.

The boys stuck together and seen out a 2-0 victory. Valuable game time for both returning first team players and our young reserve players.

 

Glentoran Seconds: Ollie Webber, Bailey Locke, Marcus Kane (captain), Callan Farley, James Douglas, Seanan Clucas, Rhys Walsh,   Rory Donnelly, George Feeney, Leon Boyd, Casey Smyth,

Subs: Theo McToal (for Walsh 60), Owen O’Neill, Tony McIlhone (for Smyth 60), Jude Johnson (for Donnelly 60), Jack Watson, Luke Dolan (for Kane 65), Calum Trainor (for Locke 65)

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Linfield Swifts 4-0 Glentoran Seconds (12 December 2023)

The Seconds had a difficult night at Midgeley Park as 2 goals in each half gave Linfield Swifts a comfortable win, in contrast to the Glens victory at Ashfield two months ago.

Glentoran Seconds: Lorcan Donnelly, Theo McToal, Owen O’Neill, Callan Farley (captain), Tony McIlhone, Seanan Clucas, Rhys Walsh, James Douglas, George Feeney, Jude Johnson,  Casey Smyth,

Subs: Caolan Hardy (for McElhone 72), Cole Killops, Ciaran Rodgers-Duffy (for Johnson 72), Jack Watson, Luke Dolan (for Clucas 77), Calum Trainor,  Ross Boyd (for Walsh 77)

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Glentoran Seconds 0-0 Larne Olympic (4 December 2023)

This evening the Seconds came up against a strong Larne side at Ashfield and lost to a single first half goal. Larne broke the deadlocked first half on 42minutes with a Kye Livingstone header at the back post. The young Glens pushed for an equaliser throughout the second half, but unfortunately couldn’t  find the target.

The very young Glens squad have faced a tough run of games recently, but despite a couple of disappointing results there have been plenty of positives with all the young players gaining valuable game time which will benefit in their development.

Glentoran Seconds: Lorcan Donnelly, Theo McToal, Ciaran Rodgers-Duffy, Dylan Hayes, Owen O’Neill,  Tony McIlhone (captain), Caolan Hardy, George Feeney, Rhys Walsh, Casey Smyth, Cole Killops.

Subs:  Cillian McCann (for Feeney 72), Ross Boyd (for Hayes 54), Cal Weatherup (for Smyth 72), Luke Doran (for Killops 72)

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Ballymena United Reserves 4-0 Glentoran Seconds (27 November 2023)

Glentoran Seconds fell to a second consecutive league defeat at the Showgrounds this evening. With a number of players off on first team duty the Seconds were up against it early on as the experienced Johnny McMurray opened the scoring on 17 minutes, United went into the break 2-0 ahead and added two more on 57 and 86 minutes.  The Wee Glens remain fifth in the Under 20 Premiership table.

Glentoran Seconds: Jack McConville, Theo McToal, Ciaran Rodgers-Duffy, Dylan Hayes, Callan Farley (captain), James Douglas, Cole Killops,  Noah Mitchell,  Killian McCandless, Cillian McCann, Ross Boyd

Subs: Barry McKervey (for Farley 75), Darragh Copeland (for Killops 75), Calum Trainor,  (for McCandless 79), Marcus Fitzsimons (for Mitchell 58),  , Patrick James Dowds-Dillon  (for Douglas 79)

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Carrick Rangers Reserves 4-2 Glentoran Seconds (13 November 2023)

Glentoran Seconds came back empty handed from Taylor’s Avenue last night as a first half own goal and a second half strike from Casey Smyth weren’t to overcome a Carrick team that led from the 20th minute. The Wee Glens are now fifth in the Under 20 Premiership table.

Glentoran Seconds: Jack McConville, Theo McToal, Tony McElhone, Ross Boyd, Callan Farley (captain), James Douglas, Casey Smyth, Seanan Clucas, Killian McCandless, Jude Johnson, Rhys Walsh

Subs: Caolan Hardy (for McElhone 67), Cole Killops (for Boyd 58), Marcus Fitzsimons (for Smyth 77), Noah Mitchell (for Walsh 77), Cal Weatherup (for McCandless 58), Cillian McCann

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Glentoran Seconds 0-0 Crusaders Reserves (6 November 2023)

With a number of regulars called up to the first team squad this week, it was a very young squad that fought out a solid goalless draw with Crusaders tonight, at Ashfield in the NIFL U20 Premiership.

It was great to see the sorely missed Seanan Clucas commence his return to action in this game. Seanan played for over an hour in his first match since January due to a groin injury. This will be good news for the senior management and the broad Glentoran support.

Glentoran Seconds: Lorcan Donnelly, Theo McToal, Ross Boyd, Owen O'Neill, Callan Farley (captain), James Douglas, Caolan Hardy, Seanan Clucas, Killian McCandless, Jude Johnson, Cal Weatherup

Subs: Cole Killops (for Clucas 68), Ryan Bailie (for Johnson 80), Luke Doran (for McCandless 80), Daniel Beatty (for Hardy 80), Barry McKervey (for Boyd 68)

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Glentoran Seconds 2-0 Glenavon Reserves (30 October 2023)

A double from David Fisher – a second minute penalty and a clincher on 65 minutes – gave the Wee Glens a 2-0 win at Ashfield this evening in the NIFL U20 Premiership.

As well as the win was the good news that Harry Murphy completed 70 minutes as he continues his recovery, Ollie Webber kept a clean sheet and marshalled his defence very well and very encouragingly Aaron Wightman played for an hour, his first action since his injury at Newry on September 9th. All good news for Warren Feeney and his senior squad.

Glentoran Seconds: Ollie Webber, Callan Farley,  Jonathan Russell (captain), Harry Murphy, Ross Boyd, James Douglas, Aaron Wightman, Bailey Locke, Leon Boyd, Rhys Walsh, David Fisher    

Subs: Theo McToal (for Murphy 70), Jude Johnson (for Walsh 55), Tony McElhone (for Fisher 70), Killian McCandless (for Wightman 55), Jack Watson (for Locke 70)

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Glentoran Seconds 1-2 Loughgall Reserves (23 October 2023)

This very young Glentoran team was on the backfoot early on at Ashfield as Loughgall took a two-goal lead by the half hour mark, both coming through Wedu Batlokwa. Five minutes after the second Glentoran were right back in in When Killian McCandless reacted quickest  to score from 6 yards when Ryan Bailies 25yrd free kick was palmed out by the Loughgall keeper. On 38mins Glentoran had a chance to equalise from the penalty spot, but Jack Watson’s kick was saved by keeper Timothy Martin.

The Wee Glens dug deep and showed plenty of character after the break and dominated the second half but couldn’t find the target. Despite having numerous chances, one that hit the woodwork and a decent penalty claim, the breakthrough didn’t come.

Glentoran Seconds: Jack McConville, Colm McKee, Caolan Hardy, Jonathan Russell (captain),  Owen O’Neill. Ryan Baillie, Luke Doran, Cole Killops, Killian McCandless, Cal Weatherup, Jack Watson.

Subs: Jack Drennan (for Baillie 75), Calum Trainor (for Watson 75), Noah Mitchell (for McKee 60),  Daniel Beattie (for McCandless 75), Barry McKervey (for Weatherup 60)

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Glentoran Seconds 2-1 Linfield Swifts (16 October 2023)

A strong Glentoran Seconds team including a number of recovering players had a very good result against second placed Linfield Swifts at the Bet McLean Oval this evening.

The scores were even at half time after a 13th minute opening goal from George Feeney was equalised on 31 minutes.

David Fisher – fresh from his first goal for the first team on Friday evening – scored the winner with 16 minutes to go.

This will have been an encouraging performance and result with both the recovering players and young Glens all performing well.

 

Glentoran Seconds: Lorcan Donnelly, Casey Smyth, Rhys Walsh, Jonathan Russell, Harry Murphy, Bailie Locke,  Leon Boyd, Sean Murray (captain), David Fisher, Rory Donnelly, George Feeney

Subs: Theo McToal (for Smyth 47), Callan Farley (for Boyd 29), James Douglas (for Feeney 64), Jude Johnson, Tony McElhone

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Glentoran Seconds 2–1 Carrick Rangers Reserves (9 October 2023)

A last-gasp goal from Cal Weatherup gave the Wee Glens all three points tonight in a hard-fought encounter at Ashfield.

Jack Watson scored a good goal to cancel out a Carrick opener early in the second half then with twenty seconds left young Weatherup gave this very young Glens team a deserved win against a strong Rangers side. Both Glentoran scorers tonight are 15-year-olds.

The first half was a battle from start to finish. The game was played at a high tempo with Carrick battling for every ball. Neither team created any real clear cut chances.

Carrick broke the dead lock after they scored from a corner with a front post header on the 51st minute. Equaliser came ten mins later when James Douglas played a lovely through ball to Jack Watson who finished calmly past the keeper.

The winner came in the last minute when substitute Cal Weatherup scored from inside the box. He shielded the ball inside the box and turned on to his left foot and finished low into the bottom corner.

 

Glentoran Seconds: Jack McConville, Theo McToal, Caolan Hardy, Callan Farley(captain), Owen O’Neill, James Douglas, Tony McElhone, Cole Killops, Jude Johnson, Jack Watson. Cillian McCann.  

Subs: Ryan Bailie (for McToal 75), Dylan Hayes (for Watson 75), Luke Doran (for Killops 70), Noah Mitchell (for McElhone 70), Cal Weatherup (for Johnson 60)

 

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Coleraine Reserves 6-1 Glentoran Seconds (2 October 2023)

A very young Glens Team with no firsr team experienced suffered a second hald rout from league leaders Coleraine tonight at the Showgrounds.

The Wee Glens actually took the lead through Jude Johnson on the half hour and it nearly stayed that way until half time, but two minutes into injury time Ciaran O'Hara equalised with the first of his four goals on the night.

By the hour mark O'Hara had his hat trick. One more from him and one each from Christopher Cullen and Joe Curran completed the scoring.

Glentoran Seconds: Lorcan Donnelly,  Odhran Bell (captain), Caolan Hardy, Ross Boyd, Luke Doran, James Douglas, Tony McElhone, Killian McCandless, Jude Johnson, Jack Watson. Cillian McCann (for Johnson 75),

Subs: Theo McToal (for Boyd 63), Cole Killops (for Doran 63), Barry McKervey (for Hardy 75), Cal Weatherup (for Watson 63)

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Dungannon Swifts Reserves 2-3 Glentoran Seconds (25 September 2023)

A last-minute strike from Leon Boyd gave the Wee Glens all three points last night at Stangmore Park, keeping the boys third in the U20 Premiership, two points off the top.

A number of recovering first teamers were given valuable match time, with Harry Murphy appearing for the first time since being carried off back in April. A definite boost for Warren Feeney going forward. Cammy Palmer and Sean Murray also started with Russell, Smyth, Walsh and Boyd all returning after a couple of weeks on first team duty.

Swifts took first blood through Tomas Galvin but the teams went in level at the break as Sean Murray equalised on the stroke of half time.

Casey Smyth put the Glens in front for the first time on 59 minutes but this was equalised thirteen minutes later, again through Galvin. Then just as the game looked like ending in a draw, Boyd popped up with his last gasp winner.

Glentoran Seconds: Lorcan Donnelly, Odhran Bell, (captain), Caolan Hardy, Jonathan Russell, Harry Murphy, Bailey Locke, Cameron Palmer, Sean Murray, Leon Boyd, Rhys Walsh, Casey Smyth.

Subs: Callan Farley James Douglas (for Hardy 60), Tony McElhone (for Murphy 60), Jack Watson (for Murray 75), Luke Doran (for Walsh 70)

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Malachians 4-3 Glentoran Seconds (23 September 2023)

A very youthful Glentoran team (average age 17) with no senior experience, put up a good fight against a more experienced Malachians side at the Shore Road Playing Fields this afternoon, but it wasn’t enough to avoid an exit from the McComb’s Coaches Intermediate Cup.

The Wee Glens found themselves 3-1 behind at the break, the result of a Christopher Allan hat trick with a reply from James Douglas. That turned into 4-1 through Michael McAuley just after the break and despite a strong fightback and goals from second half subs Cal Weatherup and Owen O’Neill the hosts managed to hold out and progress into the second round.

   

Glentoran Seconds: Lorcan Donnelly, Barry McKervey, Ross Boyd , Odhran Bell (c), Dylan Hayes, Tony McElhone, Callan Farley,  James Douglas, Cole Killops, Killian McCandless, Cillian McCann

Subs: Caolan Hardy (for McCann 70), Noah Mitchell (for McCandless 50), Marcus Fitzsimons (for McKervey 80), Owen O’Neill (for Hayes 50), Cal Weatherup (for Killops 80)

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Glentoran Seconds 5–0 Newry City Reserves (18 September 2023)

    

 

A quick fire early  double from Killian McCandless and goals from Casey Smyth, James Douglas and Caolan Hardy gave the third placed Wee Glens a comfortable win over Newry City at Ashfield this evening.

Four smashing goals in the first half saw the glens come in four up at half time. The pressure, pace and movement of the front three caught Newry on the back foot from the  start. McCandless scored his double with two assists from Casey Smyth on the right-hand side.

Smyth was again on top form and got his name on the score sheet when he broke down the right, checked back on his left and bent the ball into the bottom corner. The fourth goal came with a stunning 25yard left foot strike from James Douglas  on the edge of the box.

The second half was a much more controlled affair. Newry battled hard and tightened up at the back. The Glens worked hard in possession and it was only the 74th minute when we scored our final goal when sub Caolan Hardy struck from inside the box after he latched on to a dangerous cross from Cillian McCann.

Glentoran Seconds: Lorcan Donnelly, Odhran Bell (c), Tony McElhone, Jonathan Russell, Callan Farley,  Bailey Locke, James Douglas, Cole Killops, Killian McCandless, Casey Smyth, Leon Boyd

Subs: Cillian McCann, Barry McKervey (for Russell 54), Ross Boyd (for Leon Boyd 68), Caolan Hardy (for Locke 68), Dylan Hayes (for McElhone 68)

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Cliftonville Olympic 0-3 Glentoran Seconds (11 September 2023)

A strong Glentoran Seconds team moved third in the league table with this comprehensive win over a strong Cliftonville line up at Solitude this evening.

The Glens were boosted by a number of first team squad members playing their way back to match fitness, with a particularly pleasing inclusion of Sean Murray for his first start at any level since 2nd January. They were also boosted by the return of Leon Boyd and Rhys Walsh from international duty with Northern Ireland U19s and with the return of 18-year-old Jonny Russell who has been doing so well with the senior squad.

On 14 mins the Glens took the lead with a typical goal from Rhys Walsh. Rhys picked up the ball wide left and cut in on his right foot and hit the net with a great strike into the far corner. Shortly after the Glens added to their tally when Sean Murray struck the ball through a crowd of defenders into the net.

Second half the glens sealed all three points with a world class free kick from Rory Donnelly. Rory stepped up from a good 25yards and gave the keeper no chance as the ball rattled off the bat and into the net.

A great effort from everyone involved tonight and great to see the senior players encourage and support the younger lads in the squad.

Glentoran Seconds: Lorcan Donnelly, Leon Boyd, Tony McElhone, Jonathan Russell, Odhran Bell, (captain), Rhys Walsh, Cameron Palmer, George Feeney, Rory Donnelly, Casey Smyth, Sean Murray

Subs: Callan Farley (for Donnelly75), James Douglas (for Murray 45), Cole Killops (for Smyth 75),  , Caolan Hardy, Killian McCandless

 

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Glentoran Seconds 1-0 Ballymena United Reserves (4 September 2023)

A second half penalty from Jude Johnson was enough to give the Wee Glens all 3 points at Ashfield this evening.

Overall it was a tough encounter with the young glens coming away with a hard fought one nil win.

The first half end up scoreless with neither team creating any clear chances. Second half the game opened up. Glens eventually took the lead on 55 mins when Jack Watson was brought down in the box. Jude Johnston stepped up and struck a great penalty past the United keeper.

Glentoran could have doubled their lead  when Ryan Bailie hit a wonderful strike from all of 30yards, the ball smashed off the bar and bounced back out of the net. Unfortunately, the ref couldn’t judge from his distance to rule whether or not it had clearly crossed the line.

However the Glens boys had dug deep and fought out a well-deserved one nil victory.

Glentoran Seconds: Lorcan Donnelly, Barry McKervey, Cillian McCann, Odhran Bell (captain), Callan Farley, James Douglas, Tony McElhone, Cole Killops, Jack Watson, Jude Johnson, Killian McCandless

Subs: Dylan Hayes (for Farley 80), Caolan Hardy (for Douglas 75), Luke Doran (for Killops 80), Daniel Beatty (for Johnson 60), Ryan Bailie (for McKervey 75)

 

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Crusaders Reserves 4-3 Glentoran Seconds (28th August 2023)

 

A very young Glentoran team was unfortunate to lose to last season’s League Champions at Seaview, with a hat trick from the experienced Mikhael Kennedy the difference between the sides.

In the first half the Glens boys started on the front foot and took the lead on three mins. George Feeney broke clear and rounded the keeper to finish in style. Crusaders  then fought back and equalised through Kennedy on twenty mins. It remained that way until the break/

The second half was a much more open game as both teams attacked at every opportunity. The young glens went 2-1 up on 51 mins  when Cillian McCann latched on to a ball just inside the box and finished with a great strike through a crowd of defenders. Unfortunately the lead was short lived as crusaders broke early and Kennedy scored to make 2-2 only a minute later.

Crusaders scored two more goals on 72rd and 80th minutes through Bradley Maguire and Kennedy. But the Glens didn’t stop working and made it 4-3 on the final whistle when George Feeney added to his tally with a strike from inside box.

Overall a very encouraging performance and also a learning experience for the Wee Glens.

Glentoran Seconds: Lorcan Donnelly, Barry McKervey, Ross Boyd, Odhran Bell (captain), Dylan Hayes, Callan Farley, Cillian McCann, Cole Killops, John Paul Lagan, Jude Johnson, George Feeney.

Subs: Killian McCandless (for Johnson 73), Marcus Fitzsimons (for McCann 68), Jack Watson (for McKervey 68), Ryan Bailie (for Phillips 68),  Colm McKee (for Lagan 68)

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Glentoran Seconds 0-1 Loughgall Reserves  (14th August 2023)

A 56th minute goal by Daire Kelly cost a relatively experienced Glens team the points in this NIFL Under 20 Premiership game at the Bet McLean Oval.

Unlike last week at Inver Park, a number of senior squad players – Patrick McClean, Josh Kelly and Junior were given a run out to build up match fitness. Loughgall also took the opportunity to get valuable game time for a few first team players.

The first half was  a scrappy affair. Loughgall battled strongly and defended as a unit from front to back. Early in the half Rhys Walsh and Casey Smyth caused trouble on either wing but unfortunately couldn’t hit the target or find the strikers to create any clear-cut goal scoring opportunities.

 The second half started in a similar manner,  with both teams batting to get control off the second ball. On 56 mins Loughgall  scored what would prove to be the winner with Kelly’s back post header.  The goal forced the Glens boys to up the tempo in the push for an equaliser. Over the last 30 minutes Glentoran missed three or four half chances but couldn’t hit the target.

Glentoran Seconds: Lorcan Donnelly,  Leon Boyd, Jonathan Russell (captain), Odhran Bell, Patrick McClean, Josh Kelly, Rhys Walsh, Casey Smyth, Bailey Locke, Junior, Jordan Jenkins.

Subs: Callan Farley (for Junior 46), James Douglas (for Boyd 59),Tony McIlhone (for McClean 73) , Jude Johnson (for Kelly 46), John Paul Lagan (for Bell 73)

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Larne Olympic 1-1 Glentoran Seconds  (14th August 2023)

A very young Glentoran Seconds squad with no players who had experienced first team action as Jonny Russell, Leon Boyd and Jordan Jenkins had been called up to the first team squad for Tuesday’s Sports Direct Premiership match at Loughgall,  earned a well-deserved point on their travels against Larne Olympic at Inver Park.

The young glens were well on top in the first half and deservedly opened the scoring on 20mins when 15-year-old George Feeney latched on to a long ball, he then rounded the keeper to finish in style.

Second half Larne started the brighter and equalised on 56mins with a great strike from the edge of the box. James Douglas had a chance to win the game only for a good save from Larne’s goalkeeper.

The Glens  boys battled hard in the second half and matched Larne stride for stride to come away with a point. Considering the absence of the 3 already mentioned plus Rhys Walsh and last week’s hat trick hero Casey Smyth, this was a great performance from the young lads, whose work ethic was fantastic for the duration of the game.

Goalscorer George Feeney

Glentoran Seconds: Lorcan Donnelly, Barry McKervey, Ross Boyd, Odhran Bell (captain), Dylan Hayes, James Douglas, Tony McIlhone, Jude Johnson, Bailey Locke, Cillian McCandless. George Feeney.

Subs: Cillian McCann (for McKervey 68), Ciaran Rogers-Duffy, Ryan Bailie (for Locke 68) Jake Harrison, Cal Weatherup (for McCandless 68)

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Glentoran Seconds 4-3 Glenavon Reserves (7th August 2023)

Glentoran Seconds started their NIFL U20 Premiership campaign with a wonderful fightback at Ashfield tonight to beat Glenavon Reserves 4-3 at Ashfield.

A Casey Smyth hat trick and an 87th minute winner from Jordan Jenkins saw the very young Wee Glens home after trailing 1-3 in the 53rd minute.

The Glens  started the game very brightly with plenty of [possession and causing Glenavon trouble down both channels with Casey Smyth and Leon Boyd running well at the full backs. They opened the scoring when the ball broke through the middle and Smyth scored with a confident finish. However 2 minutes of madness immediately before half time saw Glenavon go inro the break 2-1 up. First goal came from a diagonal ball  to winger Jesse Turner struck home. Almost immediately we had two chances to clear our lines from a Glenavon corner. But eventually their number 9 Daniel Shiel forced it the over line .

The Seconds started the second half well, but somewhat against the run of play we went 3-1 down with their left winger Jay McDowell scoring with a diagonal strike into the far corner.

After the home side made two subs on the hour, two minutes later Casey Smyth scored again to make it 3-2. Glenavon attempts to hold a high line ultimately creating space in behind for Glentoran wide men.

Glens boss John Gregg  then changed the system to 4-4-2. After a few half chances missed, Glentoran equalised with a great goal. Tony McElhone found Smyth wide left with a diagonal ball. Casey checked inside the box sent two Glenavon players one way as he cut back on his right and calmly finished into the net to complete a wonderful hat trick.

The winner then  came on the 87th minute when Jordan Jenkins popped up with a great strike from outside the box. The ball dropped to JJ over 20 yards. He turned  and hit it early into the bottom left corner.

 

Glentoran Seconds: Lorcan Donnelly, Barry McKervey, Ross Boyd, Odhran Bell (captain), Dylan Hayes, James Douglas, Tony McIlhone, Jude Johnson, Jordan Jenkins, Leon Boyd, Casey Smyth

Subs: Cillian McCann (for McKervey 60), Ciaran Rogers-Duffy, Jack Watson (for J Boyd 64), Owen O’Neill (for Hayes 60)

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Lisburn Rangers 5-0 Glentoran Seconds (5 August 2023)

The young Glens team went out of the Steel & Sons Cup at Stanley Park this afternoon in the first competitive game of the 2023-24 season, comfortably beaten by a much more experienced Lisburn side that included a number of former Irish League players, including former Glentoran first teamers Jonathan Smith and Aaron Smyth. This one came too early in the season for this very youthful Glentoran squad.  

Glentoran Seconds: Lorcan Donnelly, Cillian McCann, Ross Boyd, Odhran Bell, Jonathan Russell (captain), Noah Mitchell, Tony McElhone,  Leon Boyd, John Paul Lagan, Jude Johnson, Casey Smyth.

Subs: Cole Killops (for Mitchell 46), Dylan Hayes (for McCann 55), Jack Watson, Killian McCandless (for Lagan 74), Ciaran Rogers Duffy