U11 Cup Final: St. Joseph’s 0 Ballinasloe 0 (St. Joseph’s win 3-1 on pens)
St Joseph’s collected their third trophy of a very successful season as the U11’s won a thrilling cup final in Athlone Town Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
After 80 minutes of a fantastic and hard-fought match with a real cup-final atmosphere, St. Joseph’s were deservedly crowned champions as they held their nerve to win a tense penalty shootout. It looked good for St. Joseph’s from the start as they dominated the first half, playing their trademark passing game against the physically stronger and direct opposition. However, chances were hard to come by until a fine through ball by Ian Naughton sent Damien Duff in but his great strike was met by a brilliant save from the keeper. Ballinasloe took over in the second half but resolute defending kept them at bay. So to extra time and St. Joseph’s, despite the tiring limbs, took over again and looked the most likely to score from play but just couldn’t break through. Niall Fowler made the ‘save of the season’ to keep out a thundering penalty in the shoot-out and converted spot kicks by Rory Barrett, Niall Connaughton and Ciaran Lennon sealed the win. This great win was built on a terrific back four of Eoin O’Neill, Harry O’Rourke, David McManus and Rory Barrett who didn’t give up a single chance all game. In midfield Ciaran Lennon, Niall Connaughton and Sean Fallon were always on top and wide players Damien Duff and Darragh Kildea were a constant threat supporting Ian Naughton who gave an outstanding display as the lone front-man. Brian Hannon, Kevin Kelly and James Kilmartin added fresh legs in the second half and really came on strong in extra-time. Overall, an outstanding effort and a richly deserved triumph for a great bunch of lads.
Annual Barbeque
St Joseph’s Annual Barbeque will take place on Friday 21st of May in Athlone Springs Hotel from 9 pm. A great turnout of parents, family and friends is expected and a very enjoyable nights entertainment is promised for all. Tickets are available through any manager or committee member. Further details to follow in next weeks notes. |