Young guns go down fighting

TONY Philliskirk was not disappointed by Athletic's 2-1 defeat at high-flying Burnley in the North-West Conference of the Puma Youth Alliance.

Athletic went down with all guns blazing and head of youth Philliskirk could not fault the endeavour of his team.

Athletic, who had six schoolboys in their line-up, were up against a side containing eight players who have been offered professional contracts.

Burnley established a 2-0 half-time advantage as they punished defensive mistakes.

Ryan Brooke halved the deficit with a penalty and Athletic could have had further goals.

Brooke missed two clear-cut chances, while Phillip McGrath had an effort kicked off the line.