Maynooth (2) v Celbridge (2) : U-13 Autumn League
Result: Maynooth 2-5 : Celbridge 5-6
Date: 5th Sep 2014
Johnny scored the first point of the game about 5 minutes in. This was followed later in the half by Conor T scoring a point. Maynooth scored 2 points in the first half and before the break they scored an unexpected goal from a dropping ball from a long range free. This left the score 0-02 to 1-02 at half time in favour of Maynooth. Their lead was definitely against the run of play as we dominated a lot of the first half but didn't make the most of the chances we had. We did not convert the possession we had into scores. In particular, while there was a lot of action around the Maynooth goalmouth our forwards were not clinical enough in taking their opportunities.
The first score of the 2nd half was a bizarre own goal by one of the Maynooth players in the opening minute; this brought us level. Our lads seemed to get more accustomed to the bigger size pitch in the second half - it was the first game they have played on a full size pitch. Liam in midfield and our half forwards Ryan K, Johnny & Fiachra ran at their defence and picked out their targets better in the second half. Sean H, Oisin W, Conor T, Jack & Dean played in the full forward line. Tadhg. Ciaran and Harry cleared up most of the ball from our back line. They were aided by Tom (first game back after injury), Ryan M. Oisin L and Sean W. Oisin L switched to midfield in the second half and covered a lot of ground, with Conor O'S going to wing back. Shane was in goal and did well.
Maynooth got a further 1-3 in the second half, however we had a better success rate with Johnny scoring 2-02, Conor T and Jack getting a goal each, while Fiachra and Ryan K both scored a point. This left the final score at 5-6 to 2-5. Although we were missing a number of our squad on the night - Ross and Aaron (both injured), Aidan, Colman and Niall (all helping out the other U-13 team), we were ably assisted by Conor Treacy, Oisin Lawlor and Sean Wall who all showed they are well capable of playing at this level. Overall it was a deserved win.
Our next match is at 4:30pm on Sat 20th Sep away to Rathangan. This is a team we have never played before; we need to put in a strong performance if we hope to win. Full turnout is required on the day as numbers will be tight since we have to give a couple of our lads to the U-13 Div 1 team.
Training is on Wed evening and Sun morning as normal.
Daragh & Ciaran
