Our U19 player are spending 2 weeks in the Algarve on a Leonardo da Vinci Life Long Learning Programme, and so far the trip is proving to be a huge success.

Coach Brian Welsh has been in touch from the team's base in Portugal to praise the boys on their hard work during training sessions. "It's much better to be working in a warmer, drier climate, and it's great to be with the boys full time, working on their diet and nutrition" he said.

The young Lions are scheduled to play two games while in Portugal, and got off to a great start last Tuesday evening against Louletano, where they got their first European victory, winning 3-2.  Goals came from Frazer Galloway and Dean Cummings. 

Their next test is against Portimonense, tomorrow evening.

The player have also enjoyed a cultural trip to a Cork Farm, as shown below:

From an injury recovery point this trip has been a great success so far. Four players arrived carrying long term problems which were recovering. All have been able to complete the sessions so far with no adverse reactions.

The combination of available fieldturf, grass and gym has allowed a faster track rehab programme for the individuals to be done and we are pleased to say that all played in the 3-2 win on Tuesday. The only down side was one slight hamstring injury picked up after that game, but 24 hours rest and a gym session means that as of 9:30 this morning, all 18 members of the squad enter ready for today’s double session.