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22 Apr 2026
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22 Apr 2026
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St. Joseph's Boys School u-14 squad pictured before leaving for Belfast on Friday. Included on right is coach Mr. Paul Gibbons. (Photos: Jim McCafferty Photography)
St. Joseph’s Boys School will face a strong St Louis (Ballymena) side in the Danny Blanchflower Stadium on Friday, with the hopes of all from the Westway school behind them as they attempt to bring the trophy back to the city.
Under the guidance of Head of PE Mr. Paul Gibbons, the Derry team came through the rounds, scoring an impressive 18 goals while only conceding eight, against strong opposition in Conor College, Columbanus College, Holy Cross from Strabane, and defeating Kilkeel High School in the semi-final by 3 goals to 1.
Mr. Gibbons is hopeful that the Creggan boys can come away with a victory and take the trophy back to Derry. He is basing that on results so far, with the team free-scoring in the four qualifying rounds and remaining solid defensively throughout.
‘The boys are confident. In training, they are putting in the effort, working on set pieces and drills, and have a strong self-belief in finishing the job. St Louis, Ballymena will be a tough nut to crack, but, on the day, the only thing stopping us winning is the occasion. Hopefully, we can do it.’
‘We have Kian Gibbons (Captain) who anchors the defence, Louis Callaghan who drives forward from midfield and poses a real goal threat; and upfront, a natural goalscorer in Liam Gallagher who is more than capable of making an impact on Friday.’
READ NEXT: Meet the St Joseph’s squad aiming for national glory
Those sentiments were backed up by the school’s Vice Principal, Mr. Gerry Beattie, who wished the boys success in one of their final training sessions on Wednesday.
‘St. Joseph’s have a good track record over the last few years, and I’ve been impressed with this team in training. They work hard for each other and, when you look at the clubs they come from, I believe we have a squad capable of winning on Friday. Best of luck to Mr. Gibbons and the boys.’
There will be three buses leaving St. Joseph’s on Friday morning for the final, which kicks off at 12 noon. Anyone looking to travel is asked to contact the school.
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