BANGOR’s preparations for last weekend’s fixture at Ballymena United were dealt a blow on Saturday morning when goalkeeper Gareth Deane had to withdraw from the squad through illness.
That meant Lee Feeney had to throw 16-year-old Lawton McMahon into the starting line-up for his Bangor debut.
The youngster from the Clandeboye Road was part of Bangor’s successful Under 17 squad last season, and, despite the eventual scoreline, McMahon was not overawed by the occasion.
“Lawton is a very fine goalkeeper and he is doing well with us,” said Feeney.
“He had a good pre-season and we think a lot of him at the club. Once I knew that Gareth wasn’t going to be well enough to play then I had no problem with putting Lawton into the starting line-up because I trust him.
“He did well, he looked very confident and he dealt with everything that came his way. He’ll only get better from here.”
Also offering her praise for the young stopper was Louise Spence, leader of the local Dice Futures programme where McMahon is one of the project’s youth leaders.
“It was a proud moment not only for Lawton, his family, the club and the Clandeboye community, but also for the Dice Futures project and the many young people who look up to him as a role model,” she said.
“For young people involved in the programme, seeing one of their own reach such heights is more than a sporting milestone.
“It’s a reminder that with hard work, support and encouragement, great things are possible.”
The Dice Futures young leaders are a diverse and talented group, with budding teachers, politicians, youth workers, sports coaches, translators, and beauty therapists among them. Together, they mentor their peers, volunteer at community events and help to create positive spaces for other young people to thrive.
Louise continued: “Lawton has shown himself to be a brilliant example of determination, talent and leadership. At Dice Futures we believe young people should be celebrated more often, and Lawton is a great example of why,” she concluded.
Adding his congratulations, McMahon’s former coach and head of Bangor Young Men Football Academy, Lee Scott said:
“Everyone at Bangor Young Men FC is very proud of Lawton’s achievement. It is no easy task to play at the highest level in this country, especially at such a young age, so great credit to him and the club for giving him the opportunity.
“Since coaching Lawton from a young age to when he made his move to Bangor FC last season, he has always pushed to be his best and give everything for the team through his performances, great attitude and unmatched leadership qualities.
“Aside from his great ability on the pitch, Lawton is a fantastic, kind and respectful young man and I personally carry great admiration for him, both as a player and person that deserves every success.”
