We start off this weekend’s Academy Review with some good news.
Our Under 14 side are Galway Cup Champions following their 3-1 win over Glenavon FC on Saturday in Salthill Devon’s home ground, Drom.
Rovers attended the four day competition and were in a group against Leeds United, Republic of Ireland 2010’s and Glenavon.
First up, on Wednesday, Rovers drew 3-3 with the Northern Irish side with two goals from Conor Whittaker as well as Stephen Gibbons’ strike.
Thursday saw another draw, this time the points shared on a 2-2 scoreline, with Rovers’ goals coming from Gibbons who bagged an impressive brace.
English giants Leeds United were next up on Friday afternoon and the Bit O’ Red showed no fear on the day and came out on top, winning 2-1 thanks to goals from Ryan Healy and Conor Whittaker.
This saw the lads progress to the final against Glenavon, who they drew with one Day One.
Rovers weren’t to be denied this time however as goals from Ryan Lang and a double from Whittaker ensured the trophy came to Sligo.
Ryan Kilkelly made a wonderful penalty save at 2-1 to deny the Northern Irish side a way back into the game.
Our Under 17 Men’s side hosted Bohemians on Saturday afternoon and an impressive display from the Dubs’ saw them win 4-0.
Our Under 17 Women’s team drew 3-3 at home to St. Patrick’s Athletic at the same time, thanks to goals from Anna McDaniel, scoring twice and a third from Mairead McIntyre.
Our Under 19 Men’s side played out a scoreless draw on Sunday afternoon at The Showgrounds against neighbours Finn Harps.
Our Under 19 Women were beaten 2-0 away to Shamrock Rovers, also on Sunday afternoon while our Men’s Under 15 side were beaten by the same scoreline away to Derry City in Letterkenny.