Altrincham’s U14s storm Foyle Cup opener with McKenzie’s hat-trick
Altrincham’s U14s kicked off their Foyle Cup 2026 campaign in style on Monday, beating Newtowne Youths (Limavady) 4-1 at St. Columb’s Park. Striker McKenzie struck a first-half hat-trick - including two penalties - to fire the Robins to a winning start in Derry. The result arrives as Altrincham sit 13th in the National League with 57 points from 46 games, a position they’ll aim to improve as the season builds.
How the U14s turned the game around
Newtowne Youths took an early lead when Jamie O’Connor tucked home after Altrincham’s keeper fumbled a left-wing cross. But Luke Whittaker equalised within minutes, breaking free to slot past the advancing keeper. Midway through the half, McKenzie drew the foul that led to Altrincham’s first penalty; he converted confidently to open his Foyle Cup tally. Before the break, a long-range free kick bounced between keeper and striker, and McKenzie headed in again to make it 3-1. His third arrived late, as he skipped past the full-back and fired low past the helpless keeper to seal the points.
What the win means for Altrincham’s future
The victory sets the tone for Altrincham’s academy as they push for progress in Foyle Cup 2026. McKenzie’s composure and clinical finishing - three goals in 35 minutes - underline the calibre coming through the ranks. With the club’s first-team currently 13th in the National League (57 pts, 17W-6D-23L from 46 games), the academy’s form offers a glimpse of the talent pipeline feeding the senior side. The Robins’ recent domestic run of five straight wins (WWWWW) also hints at momentum heading into the new campaign.
Next steps for Altrincham
Altrincham’s U14s now face their next Foyle Cup group-stage tie, with eyes on a deep run in the tournament. Back in the National League, the first team - 51 points adrift of York but on a five-game winning streak - will look to build on their 3-1 win over Gateshead on 25 April 2026. With 55 goals scored and a -10 goal difference, the focus remains on tightening up at the back while maintaining their scoring touch up front. The academy’s strong start in Derry can only help the club’s long-term outlook.
