Lisburn Distillery 2-1 Rosario Youth: Late strike seals narrow Central Premier League win

Lisburn Distillery claimed a 2-1 victory over Rosario Youth in the Northern Ireland Central Premier League on Wednesday 16 September 2026, with a late goal at New Grosvenor Stadium deciding a tight and competitive fixture.

Distillery controlled large parts of the match, but Rosario Youth remained dangerous throughout and equalised early in the second half. In the end, the home side’s persistence paid off with a winning goal in the closing stages.

Match overview

Lisburn Distillery made a positive start and took the lead in the 14th minute through Peter McCallum, who finished neatly after a patient build-up. The home side continued to press and created several half-chances, but Rosario Youth defended resiliently and grew into the contest.

Rosario Youth found their equaliser in the 49th minute when Conor Devlin latched onto a loose ball and fired past the goalkeeper. That goal changed the mood of the game, giving the visitors renewed belief and forcing Distillery to regroup.

The decisive moment came in the 81st minute. Matthew Ferguson, who had been lively throughout, found space at the edge of the box and curled a fine effort into the far corner to restore Lisburn Distillery’s lead. Rosario pushed for a second equaliser, but Distillery managed the final minutes well.

Key moments

• 14th minute: Peter McCallum gave Lisburn Distillery the lead with a composed finish inside the penalty area.
• 49th minute: Conor Devlin equalised for Rosario Youth after a quick turnover in midfield.
• 81st minute: Matthew Ferguson scored the winner with a precise curling strike.
• 90+2nd minute: Rosario Youth sent a late header wide as Distillery held on for the win.

Tactical story

Lisburn Distillery looked to dominate possession and build attacks through the middle, with their midfielders rotating to create passing angles. They were at their best when moving the ball quickly, and their opening goal came from exactly that kind of patient approach.

Rosario Youth were most dangerous on the counter-attack. Their equaliser came from pressing high and capitalising on a loose touch, and they continued to look threatening whenever they broke at speed. Distillery’s decision to tighten their shape in the final 15 minutes proved crucial, as it limited Rosario’s space in behind.

Standout players

Matthew Ferguson was the match-winner for Lisburn Distillery, combining sharp movement with a decisive finish. Peter McCallum also impressed with his link-up play and early goal. For Rosario Youth, Conor Devlin was their brightest performer, taking his equaliser well and causing problems with his runs.

Season impact

The three points are important for Lisburn Distillery in the Northern Ireland Central Premier League standings, keeping them competitive in what is shaping up to be a tight campaign. The manner of the victory, with a late winner, will also give the squad confidence.

Rosario Youth will be disappointed to leave without a point, but their performance showed plenty of promise. They defended with discipline for long periods and carried a real threat on the break, suggesting they will remain a difficult opponent for the rest of the season.