United youngsters beaten in Foyle Cup opener

Playing in the tournament for the first time since 2012 - when they lost to Hibernian in the final - Clifford Adams’ side were beaten 6-0 by more Scottish opposition, Partick Thistle, in their opening game.

“Our young lads gave everything they had against a stronger more physical side,” said Adams.

“Five of the Partick lads have been involved with senior team, according to their gaffer.”

The Ballymena panel has seven new faces to the team and this will be their first time playing competitively as a team but it will be a great learning curve for the youngsters.