Sun 23 Aug 2026, 19:02
Glentoran Colts tested themselves against leading League of Ireland opposition at the NIFL and League of Ireland Cross-Border Academy Development Day at The Dub in Belfast.
The young Glens faced Derry City, St Patrick’s Athletic and UCD during a demanding programme of matches which provided valuable experience against different opponents.
Glentoran were one of 16 clubs represented at the event, which brought together leading academies from across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
Coleraine, Linfield, Cliftonville, Carrick Rangers, Ballinamallard United, Larne and Dungannon Swifts completed the NIFL representation.
Shamrock Rovers, Bohemians, Dundalk, Cobh Ramblers and Shelbourne joined Derry City, St Patrick’s Athletic and UCD from the League of Ireland.
The Cross-Border Academy Development Days are a joint initiative between NIFL and the League of Ireland, giving young players the opportunity to face different styles of play in a high-quality and competitive development environment.
Photographs by Roxie Gibson.
10/09/26
