BOTH of Watford's sides at Northern Ireland's Milk Cup were in action today (Monday).

After arriving in Ireland yesterday (Sunday) both squads had to quickly settle down to prepare themselves for their opening fixtures in one of the top youth competitions around.

But before the action got underway there was the small matter of the opening ceremony through the town of Coleraine in front of the thousands who turned out.

The younger squad took part in the junior section and they were faced with Rosenborg of Norway for their opening clash.

Unfortunately the Golden Boys went down 3-2 to the hands of the Scandinavian side.

The 'Orns led 2-1 with 12 minutes to go but sloppy play gifted Rosenborg two late goals to snatch the game. Goalscorers for Watford were Michael Kalu and Charlie Kasler.

That defeat makes it difficult for the youngsters to qualify for the top group and they will need a victory in their second fixture with County Fermanagh tomorrow (Tuesday).

The Hornets parade in front of the crowds

Watford's Assistant Academy manager for 12-16s, Nick Cox said: "It was an excellent performance but a disappointing result.

"This was a learning curve for the boys who are used to playing developmental football but not cut-throat tournament football. 

"The positives are that the boys were better than their opponents in every department and played excellent stuff in the first half. 

"Rosenborg have several internationals, an age advantage and have an excellent reputation - it was a valuable lesson and the boys must learn how to win in pressured situations." 

Meanwhile there was better news for the older (premier) squad as they overcame English Colleges 3-2.

Watford's premier squad at the Milk Cup 2008

The opposition was a late replacement for the original scheduled opponents Central Auckland.

First half goals from Marvin Sordell and Fabrice Otshudi meant the 'Orns took a 2-0 lead into the second half.

However English Colleges re-grouped and produced a fight-back but it wasn't quite enough to deny the older squad an opening day victory as Rob Kiernan won the game for Watford.

Cox added: "Our first half showing was solid but overall we were disappointed with our performance.

Pierro Mingoia in action for the Golden Boys

"English Colleges came back strong in the second half and produced a disciplined performance, while we were sadly disappointing after half time.

"Midfielder Rob Kiernan was good throughout though and deserved his winning goal."

That victory leaves the Academy in a strong position going into day two of the tournament. 

Up next for the senior squad is County Antrim.

Look out for more updates here at www.watfordfc.com.

Check out the excellent BBC Northern Ireland sport website here which features videos from this year's tournament.

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