Newry U17s went into this game on the back of some good results but found themselves lucky to be on level terms at the break in this match. Only for some excellent defending by James Smyth in the centre of the back line and some super saves by goalkeeper Shane Magill, Wakehurst could have been well out of sight after the opening 45 minutes.

The half time team talk certainly had the desired effect as Newry came out with a renewed belief in the second half and began to get a foothold in the game.

But against the run of play Wakehurst took the lead on a counter attack with an outstanding 40 yard strike into the top corner of the net.

Newry threw men forward in search of an equaliser and eventually got back on level terms through the impressive Paul Cunningham, who was first to react after the Wakehurst keeper parried Niall McShane’s free kick.

Speaking to newrycityafc.co.uk after the match, Newry U17 Manager Denis McGuinness said he was pleased with the character the lads showed to come from behind and get something out of the game.