Penalty heartache for County Antrim boys

Co. Antrim goalkeeper Chris Simpson, from Ballymena, receives his runners-up medal after his sides penalty defeat by Everton. INBT32-251AC

Stefan Seaton’s side were seven minutes away from writing their name in the tournament’s history books before a late equaliser forced the game to a shootout.

With Ballymena boys Chris Simpson, Josh Corry and Eamon Fyfe in the starting line-up, Antrim had to endure some early Everton pressure but by half-time they had played themselves into the game.

A crowd in excess of 2,300 went into delirium with 10 minutes to go as Brendan Glackin fired County Antrim ahead from the penalty spot.

But within three minutes, Everton were level after Michael Taylor volleyed home at the back post.

In the penalty shootout, Antrim were on the verge of defeat but Cambridge House pupil Simpson kept their hopes alive by saving Ryan Caulfield’s spot kick.

But the reprieve was short-lived as Joe Crowe’s fifth penalty for Antrim was saved as the Merseysiders won the Junior title for the second time in three years.

It was a heart-breaking end to a dream week for Antrim, who had made history by becoming the first team from the Northern Ireland county set-up to reach the final of the main competition.

* Don’t miss Tuesday’s Ballymena Times for our Milk Cup coverage from throughout the week.