Oct 7th – U14 Kilreen Celtic (3) v (1) Watergrasshill United

This Division is a strange one and consists of 1 team relegated from Division 1, 3 from last years Division 2 and 4 from last years Division 3, with us being one of them. Today we meet a team familiar to us from last year, Kilreen Celtic. Last years encounters ended even over the two legs, so we took to the field knowing what we were up against although with a different approach to how we play in relation to formation, players and positions.

The lads approach was excellent and this was shown in their warm up. The game kicked off and for the first 15 minutes it was an even contest between the teams with neither keeper being tested. We were growing in confidence and some excellent off the ball running by Daniel and solid defence work from Luke, we came more into the game. Daniel picked up an excellent through ball and after some great work, struck the post. Kilreen knew they were in a game and uped the ante which resulted in a goal for them. For the final 10 minutes of the half, Kilreen dominated the game, creating several chances but never tested Kiernan in goal.
Half time - Kilreen 1 o Watergrasshill.

We were still in the game and went out with the approach that the game was there for the taking. Kilreen tended to have the better of the play and at times over ran us in midfield but we had the better chances. Daniels running was causing them problems and only for a few heavy passes was in on goal. With Kilreens midfield getting the better of us another goal came their way. Kilreen 2 0 Watergrasshill. With 10 minutes left, we went for broke, made some changes and Andrew scored an excellent goal, rounding the keeper. Kilreen 2 1 Watergrasshill. The push was on and the lads went for it only to be caught out by a sucker punch and there the game ended Kilreen 3 1 Watergrasshill.

In defeat we learn more as coaches and this is a good thing, the lads gave their all and nothing more could of being asked from them. Chris gave 100% in a position that he never played before, Tom on his debut ran his socks off. Seamus roasted the left back with some brilliant runs. Luke was a colossal at the back, Grantis got stuck in like a warrior and Daniels running and reading of the game was immense.
Today it didn't come off but the foundation is set, the walls will be built over the coming weeks in training.

Scorer: Andrew

Final Score: Kilreen 3 WGH 1

Match Captain: Darren

Squad: Kiernan, Conor, Luke, Adam, Darren, Tom, Chris, James, Andrew, Seamus, Daniel, Tom, Grantis
Thanks to all parents who travelled today for their support