U15s win in division 1 at Cuala
Cuala 2-7 St Sylvesters’ 3-6 Last week we lost by 3 points to a very good Kilmacud Crokes in what was a very good game of football. We conceded two goals at vital times in that game. There must have been a collective memory of that match in the minds of the players when we took to the field against Cuala. We scored 3goals and 3 points in the first half. The tone of the match was set early on. There was a hunger to win the ball and a real effort to close down the opposition. Philip Browne was commanding in goal and catching with authority. He also made a great double save in a more frantic second half.
The full back line of Cian McCann, Conor Dwyer and Joe Bannigan were giving nothing away. The half back line of Eoin Hamill, Jordan Lawless and Kevin Danaher were just as mean in denying space. Kevin Danaher set the tone early on with some effective challenges before going off injured. Eoin Hamill put in a huge effort especially in the second half, storming out of defence time and time again. Conor Dwyer and Joe Bannigan though small in stature were getting out first and winning ball. Adam Goodman from the under 14s played in the half back line to great effect. He likes defending and he’s not shy when it comes battling for possession. Cian Mc Cann is like a throw back to the silent but deadly full backs of the good old days, a cross between Jack Quinn and the Iron Man from Rhode. Jordan Lawless though seldom silent is also seldom far from the heart of the action. He gives wholehearted a whole new meaning.
Paul Mc Bride in midfield has the unmistakable mark of class. He always has time on the ball and doesn’t do panic. He scored one of the all important second half points with a lovely exchange of passes with Karl Archbold. Karl from the under 14s laid off some lovely passes and showed great composure. Captain Alan Kavanagh also scored one of the vital second half points. He was all over the pitch all through the match leading from the front.
Up front Jack Hazley commanded the vital centre forward spot with a great display of high catching. Karl Stacey had a great game and picked up the loose ball with great reading of the play. Michael Shiels contribution is best described by the goal he made from what seemed a lost cause but he kept on going and made the pass. Darragh Walsh kicked some lovely scores with the easy style of a Maurice Fitzgerald. Colm Byrne also made a great contribution to the score line. He got the early goal and kicked some lovely long range points. Gary Lawlor made his contribution with his very own trademark bravery, effort, and determination. Dillon Mc Nulty made a very welcome return and contribution in defence and in goal.
We were holding out for the win in the end with sheer desperation. The marking was close. The blocks were made. The loose ball was fought for. The win was well deserved.
Cuala were excellent opposition and played a lovely style of football. Two very good teams gave us a great and sporting match.
