FOOTBALL: Our boy Ben signs pro deal

Ben Kennedy in action for Northern Ireland U17s. Pic: Jonathan Porter / Presseye.

The 18 year-old former Lisburn Youth lad made his debut for the club earlier this month and scored his first two senior goals in the 3-1 win over Hartlepool on Saturday.

His performances have been rewarded with a professional deal, signed and sealed on Wednesday.

Just two weeks ago, Ben spoke to the ‘STAR’ about trying to secure his dream contract at the League Two club.

“My next aim is just to keep working hard and take every game as it comes, ” he said. “The next step then would be to be offered a professional contract at the end of this season.

“I just want to continue doing what I’m doing and working hard.”

And it hasn’t taken long for all his hard graft to pay off.

For the full story, see the back page of this week’s Ulster Star.