Opinion

Huge sporting achievement for Conner Byrne (14)

Sporting prodigies can sometimes compete against adults while still in their late teens but Conner Byrne's achievement in starting a senior match for the Irish League club Glenavon at the age of 14 is remarkable by any standards.

The young goalkeeper helped his side to beat derby rivals Portadown in the semi final of the Mid-Ulster Cup and, according to his coaches, has all the attributes needed for a bright footballing future.

There will be obvious concerns about the ability of a player who cannot hold a driving licence for another three years to cope with the physical side of the adult game, but it is clear that his club has monitored his progress closely before handing him a debut.

While there can be no guarantees that the Lismore College student will go on to secure a professional contract, there will be enormous interest in the next stages of his career.