The Northern Ireland Under-15 Schoolboys team began their season in fine style with a well deserved 2-1 victory over Slovakia at Knockbreda.
The home team got off to a great start when Jessie Carson hit an unstoppable shot into the net from 20 yards. Carson had only been on the field two minutes after replacing the injured Jack Scott.
Ten minutes later Michael Glynn doubled the lead, netting from close range following a period of intense pressure.
The visitors improved after the break and David Walsh did well to keep out a shot from Matej Rosenberger. Northern Ireland were dangerous on the break and George Tipton and Peter Bell went close with headers. Alberto Balde was a constant threat and should have increased the lead when he broke through but lost control with only the keeper to beat.
With five minutes remaining Slovakia got a consolation goal when Marcel Novak finished off a flowing move, getting on the end of a cross from Patrik Majkut to beat Walsh with a well placed shot.
The teams meet again at Newry Showgrounds on Wednesday, kick-off 3.00 pm.
Northern Ireland: David Walsh, Carl Johnson, Michael Glynn, Dylan Boyle (c), John McGovern, Jack Scott, Ben Wylie, Alberto Balde, Gerald Storey, Aaron Brown, Peter Bell. Substitutes: Jessie Carson (replaced Scott 15 minutes), Ben Gallagher (replaced Storey 50 minutes), George Tipton (replaced Brown 57 minutes), Chris Hutchinson (replaced Wylie 60 minutes), Peter McKiernan (replaced Tipton 70 minutes).