After the draw at VEC we came up against our Old Foes W.F.C and went down 2-1 with a goal from Mick.
League wise that result hurt us but we got back on track with a win against Bolton Street, 2-0 courtesy of goals from Alex and Thomas.
Continuing in the league was priority, although we did try our best against Premier Divison opposition in the UCFL Challenge Cup, eventually losing 6-1 and in a game which we lost one of our players for the season. Barry Dwyer suffered a horror leg break and wont be back anytime soon. Lets hope his recovery goes well.
Back in our League campaign we drew a game we could have lost badly 2-2 against White Star with goals from Collie and Marc.
So onto our latest League game against Chapelizod which we won an astounding 11-1!!!
I'll give a quick run-down of scorers:
Mick got 4, great game from him
Paul scored from the half-way line, a cracker
Richie slotted one home after he dislocated his finger
Thomas scored a belter from 20 odd yards, as did Bobby
Marc Gahan grabbed 2 and The other scorer eludes me right now, there were so many!!!
So thats our league up to date with 7 played 4 wins 2 draws and only the one loss leaving us in a strong position.
In other competitions we our through to the second round of the Leinster Junior Shield following an extra time win over Brombridge with goals from Thomas, Billy and Andrew. Also we have progressed to the last 16 of the Sidney Bedlow Cup with a hard fought 1-0 win over Clontarf 1sts, no 2nds, actually 3rds. At least thats what they said. An early strike from Mick settled it.
So thats us up to date. I will try not to leave it this long again.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Friday, October 9, 2009
Bringing things up to speed. VEC 1 Allenton 1
Ok so the poor oul blog has been neglected for over a month, so anyone who follows here is an update of the world of allenton united.
First off was our visit to VEC where Richie grabbed his first of the season, only for another sending off for Allenton and we were pegged back to 1-1. Even then we haad some chances and Mick could have nicked it late on
First off was our visit to VEC where Richie grabbed his first of the season, only for another sending off for Allenton and we were pegged back to 1-1. Even then we haad some chances and Mick could have nicked it late on
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Tuesday Action
Our next game is away to VEC 3rds in Terenure on Tuesday night. Lets hope we can keep our composure and continue playing as well as we can.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Riverside Drowned out by Unbeaten Allenton
Unbeaten!!!! Sounds unusual for Allenton, considering last season it took 16 games to amass the six points we have achieved in the leagues opening weekend. Going into the game we had a number of players on the missing list, with Lee's injury looking ominously long-term, Billy injured/suspended and Mark still waiting on his ribs so he can make his league debut.
So as we travelled to Brickfields on a pleasant enough Monday evening we had one change in the starting 11, with Richie coming in to replace the injured Billy. Andre slipped into the centre alongside Alex and Marc played wide left, with a licence to get forward when able.
Allenton started brightly with the wind at their backs and in the first minute a through ball which Thomas could have better controlled could have opened the scoring.
Minutes later, Riverside were ahead and Allenton looked a bit shaky. But unlike previous games, we rallied to the cause, Alex meeting a cross with a great header. Riverside went and tried to ruin the day by scoring again but Alex equalised for his second of the game.
Then Riverside's left full produced a moment of magic at the wrong end of the pitch. Under pressure from Thomas, the full-back went to clear behind for a corner but proceeded to hammer the ball past his own keeper from 18 yards for what could arguably be the best own goal of the season.
Minutes later Thomas started and completed a move which involved no less than 5 Allenton players, when it fell to Mick on the far side he slid it into the area to find Thomas unmarked who hammered into the roof of the net, 4-2 and Allenton looking comfy.
Marc had to be replaced by stand-in Eamo, who played very well in the centre of the park. So 4-2 at half-time and looking in control, Allenton went in search of more. And they got it. A great ball through sent Mick to the edge of the area after Alex had been blocked and an inch-perfect chip found the bottom corner to put Allenton 5-2.
Thomas made way shortly after and Richie was replaced late on by Andrew and Spike. Both contributed well and Alex bagged his hat-trick to complete the rout and take all 3 points back home with us.
Roll on next Monday for our away fixture against VEC 3rds, hopefully to keep the run going.
So as we travelled to Brickfields on a pleasant enough Monday evening we had one change in the starting 11, with Richie coming in to replace the injured Billy. Andre slipped into the centre alongside Alex and Marc played wide left, with a licence to get forward when able.
Allenton started brightly with the wind at their backs and in the first minute a through ball which Thomas could have better controlled could have opened the scoring.
Minutes later, Riverside were ahead and Allenton looked a bit shaky. But unlike previous games, we rallied to the cause, Alex meeting a cross with a great header. Riverside went and tried to ruin the day by scoring again but Alex equalised for his second of the game.
Then Riverside's left full produced a moment of magic at the wrong end of the pitch. Under pressure from Thomas, the full-back went to clear behind for a corner but proceeded to hammer the ball past his own keeper from 18 yards for what could arguably be the best own goal of the season.
Minutes later Thomas started and completed a move which involved no less than 5 Allenton players, when it fell to Mick on the far side he slid it into the area to find Thomas unmarked who hammered into the roof of the net, 4-2 and Allenton looking comfy.
Marc had to be replaced by stand-in Eamo, who played very well in the centre of the park. So 4-2 at half-time and looking in control, Allenton went in search of more. And they got it. A great ball through sent Mick to the edge of the area after Alex had been blocked and an inch-perfect chip found the bottom corner to put Allenton 5-2.
Thomas made way shortly after and Richie was replaced late on by Andrew and Spike. Both contributed well and Alex bagged his hat-trick to complete the rout and take all 3 points back home with us.
Roll on next Monday for our away fixture against VEC 3rds, hopefully to keep the run going.
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Off with a Bang!!!
Allenton United today did something that took 15 attempts last season and recorded a great win on day one of life in Division 3B.
On a bright sunny afternoon in Belcamp Park, Allenton faced Green Bay Celtic who had a respectable finish in Division 3b last season. Injuries had taken their toll on the squad already wit Lee, Mark and Spike all absent due to numerous injuries, hopefully all none too serious.
Things started well when Mick opened the scoring after a nice flick from Marc and could have gotten much better when Mick was brought down in the area - but Andre put his spot kick narrowly wide. This was the start of a difficult spell which contained Thomas having his game cut short with a hamstring injury and followed by a harsh penalty given against Paul. Green Bay slotted home the pen and looked threating for quite a spell.
Just on half-time a contested free-kick resulted in a scuffle and the referee sent Billy off, only minutes before he was to be replaced due to injury. A bad end to the game for Bill who had pressed so hard in the first half So at the break it was one-one and Allenton were down to 10 men.
Richie replaced Thomas and slotted in nicely on the right and Allenton's pushing reaped its rewards. Mick added another to his tally and Marc scored 3, including an Henryesque back heel from 6 yards out. Andrew replaced Fran who had a great chance to score but shot over the bar. Andrew worked well on the left in tandem with Barry who puts in everything week in week out.Kevin in the Allenton net touched the ball twice in the second half as Allenton ran out worthy winners.
Roll on Monday against Riverside in Brickfields, maybe we can bag another win and keep the train rolling.
On a bright sunny afternoon in Belcamp Park, Allenton faced Green Bay Celtic who had a respectable finish in Division 3b last season. Injuries had taken their toll on the squad already wit Lee, Mark and Spike all absent due to numerous injuries, hopefully all none too serious.
Things started well when Mick opened the scoring after a nice flick from Marc and could have gotten much better when Mick was brought down in the area - but Andre put his spot kick narrowly wide. This was the start of a difficult spell which contained Thomas having his game cut short with a hamstring injury and followed by a harsh penalty given against Paul. Green Bay slotted home the pen and looked threating for quite a spell.
Just on half-time a contested free-kick resulted in a scuffle and the referee sent Billy off, only minutes before he was to be replaced due to injury. A bad end to the game for Bill who had pressed so hard in the first half So at the break it was one-one and Allenton were down to 10 men.
Richie replaced Thomas and slotted in nicely on the right and Allenton's pushing reaped its rewards. Mick added another to his tally and Marc scored 3, including an Henryesque back heel from 6 yards out. Andrew replaced Fran who had a great chance to score but shot over the bar. Andrew worked well on the left in tandem with Barry who puts in everything week in week out.Kevin in the Allenton net touched the ball twice in the second half as Allenton ran out worthy winners.
Roll on Monday against Riverside in Brickfields, maybe we can bag another win and keep the train rolling.
Season....Starts......Now!!!!
Its back!!! A week after the Premier League has begun, the second most important division is about to get up and running, Div 3B in the UCFL. Allenton, on the back of a crazy season which culminated in a runner-up spot in the 3a shield but unfortunately a relegation to the next rung on the ladder.
So lets get up to speed. The main body of the squad continues with some goodbyes and some new exciting faces arriving. On the way to pastures new are Jon Redmond, Paul Byrne and Davide Meunier and we wish them all the best. But on the flip side we have made some great additions starting between the sticks with Kevin Doyle, who made a great impression in pre-season by scoring direct from a kick-out(with the help of a defenders flick) and saved a pen in a 3-0 win over VEC and on his 21st birthday no less!!! Along with Kevin comes Paul Keating, a stalwart from earlier days of Tommy's management career who is currently pursuing his Professional badges after stints coaching at a very high level. He brings Alex Kuvracos, our first Latvian signing into the fold and he impressed with a goal on his debut in a tight defeat to WFC 5-4 on Tuesday last. Also added to the side are Mark Boland, a find purely by luck after impressing in training, our two left sided players Andrew Murphy and Spike who bring finally a couple of left footed players to the set-up.
Pre-season has been up and down and going into week one we have Mark, Lee and Spike on the injured list.
Our first 2 fixtures have been confirmed, away to Green Bay Celtic this Saturday and a tricky away fixture in Brickfields against Riverside on Monday evening. Hopefully my next post will be a happier one than this time last season!!!!
So lets get up to speed. The main body of the squad continues with some goodbyes and some new exciting faces arriving. On the way to pastures new are Jon Redmond, Paul Byrne and Davide Meunier and we wish them all the best. But on the flip side we have made some great additions starting between the sticks with Kevin Doyle, who made a great impression in pre-season by scoring direct from a kick-out(with the help of a defenders flick) and saved a pen in a 3-0 win over VEC and on his 21st birthday no less!!! Along with Kevin comes Paul Keating, a stalwart from earlier days of Tommy's management career who is currently pursuing his Professional badges after stints coaching at a very high level. He brings Alex Kuvracos, our first Latvian signing into the fold and he impressed with a goal on his debut in a tight defeat to WFC 5-4 on Tuesday last. Also added to the side are Mark Boland, a find purely by luck after impressing in training, our two left sided players Andrew Murphy and Spike who bring finally a couple of left footed players to the set-up.
Pre-season has been up and down and going into week one we have Mark, Lee and Spike on the injured list.
Our first 2 fixtures have been confirmed, away to Green Bay Celtic this Saturday and a tricky away fixture in Brickfields against Riverside on Monday evening. Hopefully my next post will be a happier one than this time last season!!!!
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Photos
All the photos from all the games this season are available to view at:
http://tomhoganie.myphotoalbum.com
Cheers
http://tomhoganie.myphotoalbum.com
Cheers
Chairmans Season Review
2008 was a great year....but 2009 was better. With the aid of at-the-time fellow Tallafornia dwellers Billy And Andre, I finally got the right paperwork in front of me and Allenton United Football club was formed, July 5th 2008.
It had been a thought in our minds for a couple of years but never made it passed drunk talk until then. From there it was time to coax a man to lead the battalion, and we had known for a while that a return to football for Tommy Hogan would both him and the club no harm. So with a registered club and a manager, what next? Well from that week on it was the start of Allenton United’s first season as a member of UCFL Div 3a (could have been 3b, thanks very much Bobby Clarke!!) and finally an allocation of a pitch in Dodder Valley Park, Tallaght(Dublin equivalent to a Tornado valley in America).
There was broad interest from day 1, with Billy, Andre and yours truly being joined by friends and acquaintances from far and wide, the likes of Pavol, our esteemed Chef/Goalkeeper, who disappeared with some bad excuses, never to be seen again. A few more of his like were Karl Walker, the waterboy, Bobby Clarke(see above), two members of the Hogan clan(Mark and Darragh) although Mark makes the odd cameo, and Brian Whelan’s legs finally gave in(but he really just gave in to his misuss.) We can’t forget other contributer’s to our season so a quick thanks to Joe Nolan, Derek Hogan, Gary Fields, David O’Mahony, Evan, Ultan and especially young Gary.
So as pre-season took shape and the less committed disappeared, we went and trained at our Marlay Park base and took part in two Pre-Season friendlies, including higher level opposition – and WON both of them comfortably.
This as we know now was a false dawn and the form leading up to our first league game maybe put us ahead of ourselves. As everyone knows at this stage we went on a run that lesser men would have cried over:
Allenton 1 – 3 Conwell Rovers 3 – Marc
Allenton 3 – 3 Moorfield – Thomas, Mick, Andre
Shielton 4 – 2 Allenton - Andre(2)
Sportslink 3 – 1 Allenton - Bobby
Terenure 3 – 1 Allenton – Mick
WFC 4 – 0 Allenton
Glasnaion 0 – 0 Allenton (Featured in the Star)
Allenton 1 – 4 Grazmatazz – Jon Redmond
Allenton 0 – 2 Grosvenor Lane
Allenton 5 – 7 Sportslink – Davide, Joe, Thomas, Jon Redmond (2)
So Christmas had come and added to the 9 league defeats were a walkover awarded to Brayzil in the challenge cup, and a defeat to Dollymount at home in the Sidney Bedlow:
Allenton 4 – 5 Dollymount – Andre, Marc, Mick (2)
Things were looking bleak and our esteemed sponsor, KCO, through their Managing Director and Allenton right-full Francisco Villena( who deserves a mountain of praise for his companies sponsorship and purchase of both our home and away strip) did the honourable thing – he posted an advert online looking for a keeper. Now don’t take away from the fact that since our regular keeper was probably deported, Rob Dwyer our centre-half/Winger/Full-back/Ladies man had been an admirable stand-in, he himself knew the goals would continue to flow past him. We needed someone to answer the call. Enter Steve Brady.....
Now Steve would be the first to say that he was a bit rusty coming back, but his efforts between the sticks for Allenton have been very good. An excellent shot-stopper who sometimes, I think, must have glue on his boots or be allergic to anywhere outside his six-yard box(only joking Stevo). Apart from a couple of what I like to call “Brucie Moments” he has been excellent and kept us in a number of games. His first game was probably one to forget a five nil drubbing to Strand at home, even though they were fellow strugglers.
We had an unlucky evening game under floodlit conditions against Larkview and probably were value for something from the game. The introduction of two new squad members – Richie and Davide had bolstered our lack of numbers in a small way. The introduction of 2 of the first team players put paid to our hopes of a victory and put Larkview up in the game and they held on:
Larkview 3 -2 Allenton – Marc(2)
Followed swifty by a home defeat to the now champions:
Allenton 1 – 3 Terenure - Mick
It was at this stage of the season that even though all the deadwood was gone from the squad, we were struggling to field 11 players. One such afternoon was the straw that broke the camels back, even though we put in an amazing performance in the second half.
Glasnaion arrived in Dodder Valley and the pundits would have gone for a low scoring game – only 1 goal in the two games between these sides previously. They were very wrong....
At our lowest point of the season, we had to beg steal and borrow just to field a measly ten players. As usual the wind was blowing at around 160mph in Tallaght and Glasnaion took full advantage of our lack of numbers and the windy conditions – they led at half-time 3-0. But for the first time all season, things went Allenton’s way. An early second half penalty for handball, duly dispatched by Andre. A long ball downfield and Thomas through on the keeper, about to pull the trigger and was brought down, Andre calmly sticks another one home. Thomas prods home the third and its level. Allenton were not finished, Jon Redmond adding two to the tally. By the last minute it was all square at 5-5 with Glasnaion winning a pen and a dubious decision for offside favouring the away team.
Allenton 5 – 5 Glasnaion – Thomas, Andre (2), Jon Redmond(2)
At this point and probably rightly so, Tommy Hogan had enough. It was bad enough we had only taken 2 points from 13 league games, not being able to field 11 players was beyond a joke. Discussions were had and we agreed to keep going for the foreseeable future, providing we could keep the core group of players together. And sticking at it certainly reaped its rewards.
After such a bad week the last thing we needed was to have Shielton, at the time 2nd in the league and pushing for promotion to come to our turf. With new additions to the squad Lee and Alan and the return of Paul Byrne from injury, we boasted a strong starting eleven and put Shielton to the sword. Creatively they were a good side but the work of Andre and Billy in the middle was phenomenal. Paul still recovering from injury played most of the game in pain up front, and gave the back four no easy game. Thomas banged one in from the edge of the box from a flick-on and Allenton lead at the break. Shielton scored early in the second half and it was looking like point number three of the season until the away keeper took a high ball and left a trailing leg out on Gary, and the ref had no choice but to point to the spot. Cue Andre, cooly slotting it home and ensuing celebrations would make you think we had won the World Cup!!!!
Allenton 2 – 1 Shielton – Thomas, Andre
With the team buzzing we received good news. After badgering Tommy at every available opportunity, he finally agreed to return to the helm after his return from a trip to Italy, so left us without a manager from only one more game at Grosvenor Lane.
Another win and a goal for Thomas as his header was on its way in and deflected off the Grosvenor full-back. My season was cut short by a fractured right arm following a collision with the Grosvenor Keeper. But the lads performed extremely well to defend the lead and the team held out for victory number 2.
Grosvenor Lane 0 -1 Allenton – Thomas
So Tommy returned in time for our foray into shield competition and a trip to WFC. Goals from Mick, Alan and Davide ensured the game went to penalties, with Davide taking the winng pen after Steve had pulled off a couple of great saves. Allenton advance to the quarter finals.
WFC 3 – 3 Allenton (Allenton win on pens 3 – 0) – Davide, Mick, Alan
Three wins on the trot and we headed to Ballyogan to face Grazmatazz, early season favourites and worthy winners of our first encounter. Tommy opted to man-mark their star man, with Barry being handed the task. And he handled it. It was probably the performance of the season of any man in an Allenton shirt with Grazmatazz resorting to dirty tactics and getting a man sent off. Barry marshalled their no 10 so well, he was taken off early in the second half, having made no contribution. Mick had a smashing game, winning a pen for Andre to convert and scoring two,maybe the fact it was the first time this season his misuss was watching means we should bring her to all the games. Also one of the best team performances of the season, up there with the Shielton game a few weeks earlier.
Grazmatazz 0 – 3 Allenton – Mick(2), Andre
Our league form had transferred to the Shield and we contested a quarter final at
home to Strand and ran out 3 – 2 winners with two goals from Mick and a great flick from Jon Redmond. Special mention for him as he has scored from inside his own half, from 40, 30, 20 and a yard this season, and has been inspirational at the back.
Allenton 3 – 2 Strand – Mick(2), Jon Redmond
So with only 5 league games to go, Allenton went to Clondalkin in search of win number for in the league and came back empty handed – they only bright note – Billy scoring his first of the season from his central midfield berth, working hard alongside Andre, who as the regular penalty taker has scored every one from the spot.(hope it doesn’t put you off your next one) Moorfield sickeningly bagged the winner in added time.
Moorfield 2 -1 Allenton – Billy
Allenton then went back into shield mode with a great victory over subsequent Sidney Bedlow Cup Winners Grosvenor Lane, in a thrilling extra time victory courtesy of some great finishing from Richie.
Allenton 5 -4 Grosvenor Lane AET – Richie,Davide, Jon, Mick (2)
As the previous post denotes, a proud day out in the Shield Final for Allenton, beaten by a very good Terenure Side but not disgraced on the day. A great strike from Mick.
Terenure 3 – 1 Allenton - Mick
A horrible night in Dodder Valley with plenty of goals and Allenton on the receiving end of a 6-4 defeat. Compunded by dredful refereeing and Larkview's use of seemingly ineligable players.
Allenton 4 – 6 Larkview – Mick, Marc, Andre(2)
A great win away against one of the leagues top sides, Paul Byrne finally grabbing a goal this season and Barry grabbing two from midfield, with great performances from Alan in the middle and also Mick upfront.
Conwell 3 – 5 Allenton – Mick, Paul, Andre, Barry(2)
A real nasty game, with Steve being hero then villan, scoring from a kick-out and being sent off in the second half. Richie jumped in between the sticks but WFC shaded it, even though Allenton had great chances late on. Two great strikes from Alan.
Allenton 3 – 4 WFC – Steve, Alan(2)
Unfortunately we had to give a walkover in our last game to Strand Utd.
Overall, we had a great second half to the season, especially with the introduction of new blood in the form of Lee, Davide, Steve, Alan and Richie.
The main core of the team has stayed the same, so a big thanks to Rob and Barry, the chuckle brothers, always dedicated, even if Barry is always late to meet for games, Dre and Billy, who are always there rain or shine, to help mark the pitch and set-up for the game, Kiko, whose generosity sorted us out with two lovely strips, Jon and Paul, the elder statesmen of the team, who bring experience and battling qualities to the team and who help keep us motivated on the pitch, Mick and Mark who have chipped in with some great goals also.
So congrats to Mick who was our top scorer on 15, and in my own opinion, Jon Redmonds thunderbolt from inside his own half has to be the best goal we've seen in Dodder Valley all season.
Hopefully in the next few weeks our new home will be located and we can look forward to another exciting season in UCFL Div 3A.
Thanks
Tom Hogan
Chairman
Allenton United
It had been a thought in our minds for a couple of years but never made it passed drunk talk until then. From there it was time to coax a man to lead the battalion, and we had known for a while that a return to football for Tommy Hogan would both him and the club no harm. So with a registered club and a manager, what next? Well from that week on it was the start of Allenton United’s first season as a member of UCFL Div 3a (could have been 3b, thanks very much Bobby Clarke!!) and finally an allocation of a pitch in Dodder Valley Park, Tallaght(Dublin equivalent to a Tornado valley in America).
There was broad interest from day 1, with Billy, Andre and yours truly being joined by friends and acquaintances from far and wide, the likes of Pavol, our esteemed Chef/Goalkeeper, who disappeared with some bad excuses, never to be seen again. A few more of his like were Karl Walker, the waterboy, Bobby Clarke(see above), two members of the Hogan clan(Mark and Darragh) although Mark makes the odd cameo, and Brian Whelan’s legs finally gave in(but he really just gave in to his misuss.) We can’t forget other contributer’s to our season so a quick thanks to Joe Nolan, Derek Hogan, Gary Fields, David O’Mahony, Evan, Ultan and especially young Gary.
So as pre-season took shape and the less committed disappeared, we went and trained at our Marlay Park base and took part in two Pre-Season friendlies, including higher level opposition – and WON both of them comfortably.
This as we know now was a false dawn and the form leading up to our first league game maybe put us ahead of ourselves. As everyone knows at this stage we went on a run that lesser men would have cried over:
Allenton 1 – 3 Conwell Rovers 3 – Marc
Allenton 3 – 3 Moorfield – Thomas, Mick, Andre
Shielton 4 – 2 Allenton - Andre(2)
Sportslink 3 – 1 Allenton - Bobby
Terenure 3 – 1 Allenton – Mick
WFC 4 – 0 Allenton
Glasnaion 0 – 0 Allenton (Featured in the Star)
Allenton 1 – 4 Grazmatazz – Jon Redmond
Allenton 0 – 2 Grosvenor Lane
Allenton 5 – 7 Sportslink – Davide, Joe, Thomas, Jon Redmond (2)
So Christmas had come and added to the 9 league defeats were a walkover awarded to Brayzil in the challenge cup, and a defeat to Dollymount at home in the Sidney Bedlow:
Allenton 4 – 5 Dollymount – Andre, Marc, Mick (2)
Things were looking bleak and our esteemed sponsor, KCO, through their Managing Director and Allenton right-full Francisco Villena( who deserves a mountain of praise for his companies sponsorship and purchase of both our home and away strip) did the honourable thing – he posted an advert online looking for a keeper. Now don’t take away from the fact that since our regular keeper was probably deported, Rob Dwyer our centre-half/Winger/Full-back/Ladies man had been an admirable stand-in, he himself knew the goals would continue to flow past him. We needed someone to answer the call. Enter Steve Brady.....
Now Steve would be the first to say that he was a bit rusty coming back, but his efforts between the sticks for Allenton have been very good. An excellent shot-stopper who sometimes, I think, must have glue on his boots or be allergic to anywhere outside his six-yard box(only joking Stevo). Apart from a couple of what I like to call “Brucie Moments” he has been excellent and kept us in a number of games. His first game was probably one to forget a five nil drubbing to Strand at home, even though they were fellow strugglers.
We had an unlucky evening game under floodlit conditions against Larkview and probably were value for something from the game. The introduction of two new squad members – Richie and Davide had bolstered our lack of numbers in a small way. The introduction of 2 of the first team players put paid to our hopes of a victory and put Larkview up in the game and they held on:
Larkview 3 -2 Allenton – Marc(2)
Followed swifty by a home defeat to the now champions:
Allenton 1 – 3 Terenure - Mick
It was at this stage of the season that even though all the deadwood was gone from the squad, we were struggling to field 11 players. One such afternoon was the straw that broke the camels back, even though we put in an amazing performance in the second half.
Glasnaion arrived in Dodder Valley and the pundits would have gone for a low scoring game – only 1 goal in the two games between these sides previously. They were very wrong....
At our lowest point of the season, we had to beg steal and borrow just to field a measly ten players. As usual the wind was blowing at around 160mph in Tallaght and Glasnaion took full advantage of our lack of numbers and the windy conditions – they led at half-time 3-0. But for the first time all season, things went Allenton’s way. An early second half penalty for handball, duly dispatched by Andre. A long ball downfield and Thomas through on the keeper, about to pull the trigger and was brought down, Andre calmly sticks another one home. Thomas prods home the third and its level. Allenton were not finished, Jon Redmond adding two to the tally. By the last minute it was all square at 5-5 with Glasnaion winning a pen and a dubious decision for offside favouring the away team.
Allenton 5 – 5 Glasnaion – Thomas, Andre (2), Jon Redmond(2)
At this point and probably rightly so, Tommy Hogan had enough. It was bad enough we had only taken 2 points from 13 league games, not being able to field 11 players was beyond a joke. Discussions were had and we agreed to keep going for the foreseeable future, providing we could keep the core group of players together. And sticking at it certainly reaped its rewards.
After such a bad week the last thing we needed was to have Shielton, at the time 2nd in the league and pushing for promotion to come to our turf. With new additions to the squad Lee and Alan and the return of Paul Byrne from injury, we boasted a strong starting eleven and put Shielton to the sword. Creatively they were a good side but the work of Andre and Billy in the middle was phenomenal. Paul still recovering from injury played most of the game in pain up front, and gave the back four no easy game. Thomas banged one in from the edge of the box from a flick-on and Allenton lead at the break. Shielton scored early in the second half and it was looking like point number three of the season until the away keeper took a high ball and left a trailing leg out on Gary, and the ref had no choice but to point to the spot. Cue Andre, cooly slotting it home and ensuing celebrations would make you think we had won the World Cup!!!!
Allenton 2 – 1 Shielton – Thomas, Andre
With the team buzzing we received good news. After badgering Tommy at every available opportunity, he finally agreed to return to the helm after his return from a trip to Italy, so left us without a manager from only one more game at Grosvenor Lane.
Another win and a goal for Thomas as his header was on its way in and deflected off the Grosvenor full-back. My season was cut short by a fractured right arm following a collision with the Grosvenor Keeper. But the lads performed extremely well to defend the lead and the team held out for victory number 2.
Grosvenor Lane 0 -1 Allenton – Thomas
So Tommy returned in time for our foray into shield competition and a trip to WFC. Goals from Mick, Alan and Davide ensured the game went to penalties, with Davide taking the winng pen after Steve had pulled off a couple of great saves. Allenton advance to the quarter finals.
WFC 3 – 3 Allenton (Allenton win on pens 3 – 0) – Davide, Mick, Alan
Three wins on the trot and we headed to Ballyogan to face Grazmatazz, early season favourites and worthy winners of our first encounter. Tommy opted to man-mark their star man, with Barry being handed the task. And he handled it. It was probably the performance of the season of any man in an Allenton shirt with Grazmatazz resorting to dirty tactics and getting a man sent off. Barry marshalled their no 10 so well, he was taken off early in the second half, having made no contribution. Mick had a smashing game, winning a pen for Andre to convert and scoring two,maybe the fact it was the first time this season his misuss was watching means we should bring her to all the games. Also one of the best team performances of the season, up there with the Shielton game a few weeks earlier.
Grazmatazz 0 – 3 Allenton – Mick(2), Andre
Our league form had transferred to the Shield and we contested a quarter final at
home to Strand and ran out 3 – 2 winners with two goals from Mick and a great flick from Jon Redmond. Special mention for him as he has scored from inside his own half, from 40, 30, 20 and a yard this season, and has been inspirational at the back.
Allenton 3 – 2 Strand – Mick(2), Jon Redmond
So with only 5 league games to go, Allenton went to Clondalkin in search of win number for in the league and came back empty handed – they only bright note – Billy scoring his first of the season from his central midfield berth, working hard alongside Andre, who as the regular penalty taker has scored every one from the spot.(hope it doesn’t put you off your next one) Moorfield sickeningly bagged the winner in added time.
Moorfield 2 -1 Allenton – Billy
Allenton then went back into shield mode with a great victory over subsequent Sidney Bedlow Cup Winners Grosvenor Lane, in a thrilling extra time victory courtesy of some great finishing from Richie.
Allenton 5 -4 Grosvenor Lane AET – Richie,Davide, Jon, Mick (2)
As the previous post denotes, a proud day out in the Shield Final for Allenton, beaten by a very good Terenure Side but not disgraced on the day. A great strike from Mick.
Terenure 3 – 1 Allenton - Mick
A horrible night in Dodder Valley with plenty of goals and Allenton on the receiving end of a 6-4 defeat. Compunded by dredful refereeing and Larkview's use of seemingly ineligable players.
Allenton 4 – 6 Larkview – Mick, Marc, Andre(2)
A great win away against one of the leagues top sides, Paul Byrne finally grabbing a goal this season and Barry grabbing two from midfield, with great performances from Alan in the middle and also Mick upfront.
Conwell 3 – 5 Allenton – Mick, Paul, Andre, Barry(2)
A real nasty game, with Steve being hero then villan, scoring from a kick-out and being sent off in the second half. Richie jumped in between the sticks but WFC shaded it, even though Allenton had great chances late on. Two great strikes from Alan.
Allenton 3 – 4 WFC – Steve, Alan(2)
Unfortunately we had to give a walkover in our last game to Strand Utd.
Overall, we had a great second half to the season, especially with the introduction of new blood in the form of Lee, Davide, Steve, Alan and Richie.
The main core of the team has stayed the same, so a big thanks to Rob and Barry, the chuckle brothers, always dedicated, even if Barry is always late to meet for games, Dre and Billy, who are always there rain or shine, to help mark the pitch and set-up for the game, Kiko, whose generosity sorted us out with two lovely strips, Jon and Paul, the elder statesmen of the team, who bring experience and battling qualities to the team and who help keep us motivated on the pitch, Mick and Mark who have chipped in with some great goals also.
So congrats to Mick who was our top scorer on 15, and in my own opinion, Jon Redmonds thunderbolt from inside his own half has to be the best goal we've seen in Dodder Valley all season.
Hopefully in the next few weeks our new home will be located and we can look forward to another exciting season in UCFL Div 3A.
Thanks
Tom Hogan
Chairman
Allenton United
Monday, May 4, 2009
Allenton Edged Out in Final by Strong Terenure Side 3-1
And so, on the occasion of their first ever final appearance - a good marker for the future - as Allenton took the field against an extremely good outfit in the Irish Life Shield Final in Sportslink on a wet and windy Monday afternoon, the fairytale ended.
Although for a while it looked like the magic performances of recent weeks would continue - Terenure proved to be too resilient in many area's of the park and ran out worthy Champions.
Tommy Hogan decided on the same 11 that began our most recent victory against Grosvenor Lane, this time playing with Paul Byrne as a sweeper. And it almost worked.
Although Terenure opened the scoring, with a deflection that Steve couldnt re-set himself for. With the wind at their backs, a long Rob Dwyer free-kick floated into the area and Mick latched onto the ball - and neatly tucked away a low volley into the corner. Game on.
Davide almost capitalised with a header and Alan spurned a great chance when sent through, only to put it narrowly wide. And so Allenton went in at half-time with a chance to upset a team who have lost only once in their entire league campaign - a team that had beaten Allenton both home and away.
But, it was not to be.
Although the back five of Lee, Paul, Rob, Barry and Jon were in great form, the threat from the Terenure no.9 was constant and eventually bore fruit.
Andre and Billy had to contend with pressure from two skilled midfielders and one especially dirty one who on another day may have gotten his marching orders for persistent and dangerous play.
Mick made way for Mark early in the half as Allenton pushed for a goal - but at the other end a piece of individual magic saw Terenure break the deadlock again and go 2-1 up, through their number 9. Steve had a great 2nd half and couldnt be faulted for any of the goals and kept Allenton in it with a number of great one on one saves.
Terenure kept pressing and a low cross found No.9 in the middle again who smashed it low down the middle to extend Terenure's advantage to 3-1.
Billy and Davide came off for the Scottish connection - Kiko and Richie - who put in good shifts in the limited time they had on the pitch. Allenton pressed hard and Mark had a gilt-edge chance and put just wide with 10 minutes remaining.
The remainder of the game was played out in Allenton's half - who battled doggedly to keep the score at 3-1, and preserve the pride they had so rightly gained in the previous weeks.
Each player to a man contributed to the game and unfortunately were beaten out by the better team on the day.
A good all-round performance which hopefully Allenton will get to repeat for many's a season to come.
Although for a while it looked like the magic performances of recent weeks would continue - Terenure proved to be too resilient in many area's of the park and ran out worthy Champions.
Tommy Hogan decided on the same 11 that began our most recent victory against Grosvenor Lane, this time playing with Paul Byrne as a sweeper. And it almost worked.
Although Terenure opened the scoring, with a deflection that Steve couldnt re-set himself for. With the wind at their backs, a long Rob Dwyer free-kick floated into the area and Mick latched onto the ball - and neatly tucked away a low volley into the corner. Game on.
Davide almost capitalised with a header and Alan spurned a great chance when sent through, only to put it narrowly wide. And so Allenton went in at half-time with a chance to upset a team who have lost only once in their entire league campaign - a team that had beaten Allenton both home and away.
But, it was not to be.
Although the back five of Lee, Paul, Rob, Barry and Jon were in great form, the threat from the Terenure no.9 was constant and eventually bore fruit.
Andre and Billy had to contend with pressure from two skilled midfielders and one especially dirty one who on another day may have gotten his marching orders for persistent and dangerous play.
Mick made way for Mark early in the half as Allenton pushed for a goal - but at the other end a piece of individual magic saw Terenure break the deadlock again and go 2-1 up, through their number 9. Steve had a great 2nd half and couldnt be faulted for any of the goals and kept Allenton in it with a number of great one on one saves.
Terenure kept pressing and a low cross found No.9 in the middle again who smashed it low down the middle to extend Terenure's advantage to 3-1.
Billy and Davide came off for the Scottish connection - Kiko and Richie - who put in good shifts in the limited time they had on the pitch. Allenton pressed hard and Mark had a gilt-edge chance and put just wide with 10 minutes remaining.
The remainder of the game was played out in Allenton's half - who battled doggedly to keep the score at 3-1, and preserve the pride they had so rightly gained in the previous weeks.
Each player to a man contributed to the game and unfortunately were beaten out by the better team on the day.
A good all-round performance which hopefully Allenton will get to repeat for many's a season to come.
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Bottom against top in Shield Cup Final
Allenton United will face Terenure 3rd's in the UCFL Division 3A Final at Furry Park this Bank Holiday Monday.
A massive 31 points seperate the two teams in the league and if Allenton are to lift the cup they will need to beat Terenure at the third time of asking.
However Allenton can point to their recent good form which started with a 2-1 win over 2nd placed Shielton Athletic and the fact they go into the game as underdogs with nothing to lose.
If anybody needs further motivation then I suggest a viewing of the fantastic film 300 on the eve of the match.
A massive 31 points seperate the two teams in the league and if Allenton are to lift the cup they will need to beat Terenure at the third time of asking.
However Allenton can point to their recent good form which started with a 2-1 win over 2nd placed Shielton Athletic and the fact they go into the game as underdogs with nothing to lose.
If anybody needs further motivation then I suggest a viewing of the fantastic film 300 on the eve of the match.
Allenton United reach Shield Cup Final after epic clash with Grosvenor Lane ends 5-4 to the Allenton after extra time
Allenton United where in dream land after securing a place in the UCFL Division 3A cup final after coming twice from behind to finally overcome a stubborn Grosvenor Lane 5-4 in extra time.
With a place in the final at stake Allenton started a little nervously with Steve allowing the bounce from a long ball to catch him off guard before recovering and minutes later the usually reliable John Redmond put the home defence in trouble with a short back pass.
Allenton's troubles where compounded when Grosvenor Lane took the lead from the penalty spot after the wet conditions made the ball spin up and strike Billy Cunningham in the hand. Grosvenor Lane were in confident mood and where looking to extend their lead.
However Allenton rallied and Redmond made amends for his earlier mistake by tucking away the equaliser from a corner. The rest of the first half was played in torrential rain with the teams going in level at half time.
The sun came out for the second half perhaps anticipating the goal feast to come. Grosvenor Lane went 2-1 up only for Allenton to equalise for a second time through a brilliant move involving Alan, Mick and finished by David. Grosvenor took the lead for the final time and where looking good for a 3-2 win until Mick put the game into extra time with a cool finish with minutes remaining.
Allenton's Scottish connection of Richie and Fran had been introduced with 15 minutes of normal time left and it was Richie who put Allenton 4-3 up with a cool finish at the far post before Allenton extended their lead on the stroke of (extra time) half time with Mick finding the bottom corner.
Allenton where looking comfortably but we like to keep manager Tommy on his toes and he was certainly animated when Grosvenor pulled one back to set up an edgy finish but Allenton stood strong to confirm their first ever final appearance.
With a place in the final at stake Allenton started a little nervously with Steve allowing the bounce from a long ball to catch him off guard before recovering and minutes later the usually reliable John Redmond put the home defence in trouble with a short back pass.
Allenton's troubles where compounded when Grosvenor Lane took the lead from the penalty spot after the wet conditions made the ball spin up and strike Billy Cunningham in the hand. Grosvenor Lane were in confident mood and where looking to extend their lead.
However Allenton rallied and Redmond made amends for his earlier mistake by tucking away the equaliser from a corner. The rest of the first half was played in torrential rain with the teams going in level at half time.
The sun came out for the second half perhaps anticipating the goal feast to come. Grosvenor Lane went 2-1 up only for Allenton to equalise for a second time through a brilliant move involving Alan, Mick and finished by David. Grosvenor took the lead for the final time and where looking good for a 3-2 win until Mick put the game into extra time with a cool finish with minutes remaining.
Allenton's Scottish connection of Richie and Fran had been introduced with 15 minutes of normal time left and it was Richie who put Allenton 4-3 up with a cool finish at the far post before Allenton extended their lead on the stroke of (extra time) half time with Mick finding the bottom corner.
Allenton where looking comfortably but we like to keep manager Tommy on his toes and he was certainly animated when Grosvenor pulled one back to set up an edgy finish but Allenton stood strong to confirm their first ever final appearance.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Allenton to the Semi's! Allenton 3 - 2 Strand United
Allenton continue their late resurgence in Division 3A with a good win against Strand United, at home on a glorious Saturday.
Allenton started this match strongly, looking for the early goal, and despite creating numerous chances could not find the back of the net.
Strand began to press, but their early efforts were easily thwarted by the sturdy Allenton back line.
Allenton looked strong from set pieces, winning a string of corners, and the finally broke through - Mick latching onto a cross that was not convincingly cleared by Strand, and glanced in the opener.
Allenton sat back after gaining the lead, and Strand took advantage by launching a number of attacks, and their efforts were rewarded with the equaliser shortly before the break.
The second half began with Allenton pressing to regain the lead, but a defensive mix-up led to Strand playng the ball to the edge of the area, and their attacker took advantage of the space and sweatly smashed the ball into the bottom left hand corner from all of 20 yards.
Allenton, not wishing to go out of the competition at this stage, pressed forward looking for an equaliser, when it finally came from yet another corner, with Mick once again proving to be a threat, by glancing the ball into the back of the net.
Allenton continued to press, looking for the elusive winner, which, with 10 mintues to go, scrappily came.
From yet another corner, Strand failed to deal with the swift curling cross, and after hitting a few bodies, Paul (we think) got the touch put put Allenton deservedly back in the lead.
It could of been 4, as Allenton created chance after chance in the closing minutes of the game.
It ended 3-2, and the semi final against Grovesnor Lane to come.
Team:
Defence: Lee O'Sullivan, Barry Dwyer, Jon Redmond, Ritchie
Midfield: Robert Dwyer, Billy Cunningham, Andre Caminiti, Davide (Paul (1))
Attack: Mick Horgan(2) (Ultan), Alan Dundon
Allenton started this match strongly, looking for the early goal, and despite creating numerous chances could not find the back of the net.
Strand began to press, but their early efforts were easily thwarted by the sturdy Allenton back line.
Allenton looked strong from set pieces, winning a string of corners, and the finally broke through - Mick latching onto a cross that was not convincingly cleared by Strand, and glanced in the opener.
Allenton sat back after gaining the lead, and Strand took advantage by launching a number of attacks, and their efforts were rewarded with the equaliser shortly before the break.
The second half began with Allenton pressing to regain the lead, but a defensive mix-up led to Strand playng the ball to the edge of the area, and their attacker took advantage of the space and sweatly smashed the ball into the bottom left hand corner from all of 20 yards.
Allenton, not wishing to go out of the competition at this stage, pressed forward looking for an equaliser, when it finally came from yet another corner, with Mick once again proving to be a threat, by glancing the ball into the back of the net.
Allenton continued to press, looking for the elusive winner, which, with 10 mintues to go, scrappily came.
From yet another corner, Strand failed to deal with the swift curling cross, and after hitting a few bodies, Paul (we think) got the touch put put Allenton deservedly back in the lead.
It could of been 4, as Allenton created chance after chance in the closing minutes of the game.
It ended 3-2, and the semi final against Grovesnor Lane to come.
Team:
Defence: Lee O'Sullivan, Barry Dwyer, Jon Redmond, Ritchie
Midfield: Robert Dwyer, Billy Cunningham, Andre Caminiti, Davide (Paul (1))
Attack: Mick Horgan(2) (Ultan), Alan Dundon
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Match Report: Grazzmatazz 0 - 3 Allenton United
10 from the last 12 league points is the current form of Allenton United. Not even the other United; Manchester, can boast such a return from the last 4 league games!
The match started on another pleasant evening, for this midweek game in Ballyogan.
Allenton began by moving away from their usual 4 4 2 formation, instead opting for an attack minded 4 3 3 / 4 5 1.
After a tentative and scrappy start, tempers had started to flare, culminating in a sending off for one of the Grazzmatazz forwards for kicking out at Allenton's Robert Dwyer.
A great save from 'keeper Steven Brady, tipping the ball onto the bar from a well struck volley, kept the score at 0-0, and he was called upon another few times to keep Allenton in the game as Grazzmatazz pressed for an early opener.
Grazzmatazz pushed on, passing and moving well but unable to break down the solid Allenton defence.
Allenton had a couple of breaks down either wing, and half chances fell to Mick Horgan and Alan Dundon, with Lee O'Sullivan hitting the post after latching onto to a free kick sent into the box by Jon Redmond, but the first half ended goalless.
Soon after the restart, Allenton began to pressurise the Grazzmatazz midfield and back line, and the pace up front started to expose cracks in the Grazzmatazz defence.
The deadlock finally broke.
Mick Horgan started a trademark winding run on the right of midfield, skipping by one defender, and powering into the box before being taken down when just about the pull the trigger. Penalty.
As seems to be par for the course lately, Andre Caminiti stepped up to convert the spot kick, sweetly slotting it in the bottom left corner.
That's 4 penalties from the last 4 league games slotted in by 'Dre, and 5 from the last 5 games if the shoot-out at W FC is counted.
By this stage, Allenton were well on top of the game.
Grazzmatazz could still not break down the sturdy Allenton defence, with Barry Dwyer having Grazz's best player in his pocket for the entire game, reducing him to shooting from distance.
Davide came on for Fran Villena - who had been playing solidly in defence, to give Allenton even more attacking options, and take advantage of their growing domination. O'Sullivan switched to a wing-back role on the right, while Davide focused his attention up front.
Soon after, Allenton were 2 up. Billy Cunningham slid a ball through for O'Sullivan, who cracked a shot across the 'keeper, who in turn parried the shot straight in front of the waiting Mick Horgan & Davide. Davide knocked the ball to his left to Horgan, who obliged by neatly slotting the ball past the Grazzmatazz 'keeper.
Grazzmatazz at this stage, were out on their feet, and Allenton were harassing and winning everything through the midfield, with the usual strong performances by Andre Caminiti, Billy Cunningham and Rob Dwyer. The Allenton back line soaked up everything Grazz had to offer, and Brady had possibly his quietest game in goal to date, though two saves from shots were required, even if the ball was struck pretty much straight at the Allenton stopper.
Some more good play down the left by Dundon resulted in Allenton winning a string of free kicks near the edge of the Grazzmatazz penalty area, and Allenton piled the pressure on.
This period of strong play eventually led to a lofted ball from the left over the defence which landed kindly for Horgan, who volleyed across the Grazzmatazz 'keeper, sending the ball flying into the inside of the far post.
0-3 and Allenton were beginning to run riot.
A few more half chances came, and possibly the best chance came to Davide who ran onto a through ball from Horgan, and only for some good reactions from the Grazzmatazz goalie, he would have put Allenton 4 up.
By this stage, Allentons back line of Rob Dwyer, Jon Redmond, Ritchie and Lee O'Sullivan were barely troubled, but when called into action, kept the Grazzmatazz front men from creating anything but half chances.
The midfield of Barry Dwyer, Andre Caminiti and Billy Cunningham battled for the full 90 minutes, giving little to their opposite numbers. The forward line of Alan Dundon, Mick Horgan and Davide kept creating chances, with Grazzmatazz unable to deal with the strength of Dundon, pace of Horgan or off the ball running of Davide.
When the whistle finally sounded, a well deserved 0-3 victory for Allenton was the result.
Relegation contenders? I think not. Allenton are showing at this late stage in the season, that they are now the team to beat.
Team:
Defence: Fran Villena (Davide, 60mins), Barry Dwyer, Jon Redmond, Ritchie
Midfield: Robert Dwyer, Billy Cunningham, Andre Caminiti(1)
Attack: Lee O'Sullivan, Mick Horgan(2), Alan Dundon
The match started on another pleasant evening, for this midweek game in Ballyogan.
Allenton began by moving away from their usual 4 4 2 formation, instead opting for an attack minded 4 3 3 / 4 5 1.
After a tentative and scrappy start, tempers had started to flare, culminating in a sending off for one of the Grazzmatazz forwards for kicking out at Allenton's Robert Dwyer.
A great save from 'keeper Steven Brady, tipping the ball onto the bar from a well struck volley, kept the score at 0-0, and he was called upon another few times to keep Allenton in the game as Grazzmatazz pressed for an early opener.
Grazzmatazz pushed on, passing and moving well but unable to break down the solid Allenton defence.
Allenton had a couple of breaks down either wing, and half chances fell to Mick Horgan and Alan Dundon, with Lee O'Sullivan hitting the post after latching onto to a free kick sent into the box by Jon Redmond, but the first half ended goalless.
Soon after the restart, Allenton began to pressurise the Grazzmatazz midfield and back line, and the pace up front started to expose cracks in the Grazzmatazz defence.
The deadlock finally broke.
Mick Horgan started a trademark winding run on the right of midfield, skipping by one defender, and powering into the box before being taken down when just about the pull the trigger. Penalty.
As seems to be par for the course lately, Andre Caminiti stepped up to convert the spot kick, sweetly slotting it in the bottom left corner.
That's 4 penalties from the last 4 league games slotted in by 'Dre, and 5 from the last 5 games if the shoot-out at W FC is counted.
By this stage, Allenton were well on top of the game.
Grazzmatazz could still not break down the sturdy Allenton defence, with Barry Dwyer having Grazz's best player in his pocket for the entire game, reducing him to shooting from distance.
Davide came on for Fran Villena - who had been playing solidly in defence, to give Allenton even more attacking options, and take advantage of their growing domination. O'Sullivan switched to a wing-back role on the right, while Davide focused his attention up front.
Soon after, Allenton were 2 up. Billy Cunningham slid a ball through for O'Sullivan, who cracked a shot across the 'keeper, who in turn parried the shot straight in front of the waiting Mick Horgan & Davide. Davide knocked the ball to his left to Horgan, who obliged by neatly slotting the ball past the Grazzmatazz 'keeper.
Grazzmatazz at this stage, were out on their feet, and Allenton were harassing and winning everything through the midfield, with the usual strong performances by Andre Caminiti, Billy Cunningham and Rob Dwyer. The Allenton back line soaked up everything Grazz had to offer, and Brady had possibly his quietest game in goal to date, though two saves from shots were required, even if the ball was struck pretty much straight at the Allenton stopper.
Some more good play down the left by Dundon resulted in Allenton winning a string of free kicks near the edge of the Grazzmatazz penalty area, and Allenton piled the pressure on.
This period of strong play eventually led to a lofted ball from the left over the defence which landed kindly for Horgan, who volleyed across the Grazzmatazz 'keeper, sending the ball flying into the inside of the far post.
0-3 and Allenton were beginning to run riot.
A few more half chances came, and possibly the best chance came to Davide who ran onto a through ball from Horgan, and only for some good reactions from the Grazzmatazz goalie, he would have put Allenton 4 up.
By this stage, Allentons back line of Rob Dwyer, Jon Redmond, Ritchie and Lee O'Sullivan were barely troubled, but when called into action, kept the Grazzmatazz front men from creating anything but half chances.
The midfield of Barry Dwyer, Andre Caminiti and Billy Cunningham battled for the full 90 minutes, giving little to their opposite numbers. The forward line of Alan Dundon, Mick Horgan and Davide kept creating chances, with Grazzmatazz unable to deal with the strength of Dundon, pace of Horgan or off the ball running of Davide.
When the whistle finally sounded, a well deserved 0-3 victory for Allenton was the result.
Relegation contenders? I think not. Allenton are showing at this late stage in the season, that they are now the team to beat.
Team:
Defence: Fran Villena (Davide, 60mins), Barry Dwyer, Jon Redmond, Ritchie
Midfield: Robert Dwyer, Billy Cunningham, Andre Caminiti(1)
Attack: Lee O'Sullivan, Mick Horgan(2), Alan Dundon
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Match Report - Grosvenor Lane 0 - Allenton United 1
The Allenton United train rolled into Bushy Park on a sunny Monday night and continued their recent run of good form by bagging all 3 points against a resilient Grosvenor Lane.
After only 2 points from 13 games, Allenton are now 7 points from a possible 9 in the last 2 weeks, hardly relegation form.
Grosvenor, on the back of a weekend defeat to Grazmatazz were out to frank the form of the 2-0 defeat of Allenton earlier in the season but United had other ideas. On the back of a confidence boosting win over Shielton recently, Allenton boasted the strongest squad they've had since before Christmas, with the return of Mark from injury a boost.
The away side started brightly with a couple of half-chances from Mick and a long-range effort from Jon Redmond. The game was flowing in Allenton's favour with Steve rarely troubled in the first half. Davide worked hard and a deflection meant Grosvenor conceeded the 1st of 6 consecutive corners - the last of which resulted in the only goal of the game. After Andre had whipped in 5 corners, Thomas flicked the 6th one on from the front post, and the Grosvenor defender poked the ball into his own net. 1-0!!!!
Allenton continued to press and just on half time,Billy whipped a ball into the box and the ball bounced between Thomas and the opposing keeper and both went for it. Although he cant remember much, other team members described the challenge as WWE like with both bodies crashing to the floor. Thomas came off the worst,fracturing his fore-arm, effectively ending his season.
Marc came on at half-time and put in a good shift, with Davide making way for the industrious Alan, who lead the line very well with a half-hour to go.
The game turned in Grosvenor's favour slightly when they pushed their centre-half up front and went with 3 in the middle of the park, but the back four of Fran, Jon, Rob and Barry handled all they could throw at them comfortably, even at the cost of a couple of yellow cards. Andre,Billy and Lee controlled the middle of the park and supplied good ball to Alan,Marc and Mick, who all could have put the game beyong Grosvenor with some good chances late on. Steve made two wonderful saves from Grosvenors biggest threat, their number 12, pushing one around the post and diving at his feet for the second to hand Allenton win number two of the season.
Allenton will hope to carry their form into the 1st round of the shield, Away to WFC, this Saturday at 3pm
After only 2 points from 13 games, Allenton are now 7 points from a possible 9 in the last 2 weeks, hardly relegation form.
Grosvenor, on the back of a weekend defeat to Grazmatazz were out to frank the form of the 2-0 defeat of Allenton earlier in the season but United had other ideas. On the back of a confidence boosting win over Shielton recently, Allenton boasted the strongest squad they've had since before Christmas, with the return of Mark from injury a boost.
The away side started brightly with a couple of half-chances from Mick and a long-range effort from Jon Redmond. The game was flowing in Allenton's favour with Steve rarely troubled in the first half. Davide worked hard and a deflection meant Grosvenor conceeded the 1st of 6 consecutive corners - the last of which resulted in the only goal of the game. After Andre had whipped in 5 corners, Thomas flicked the 6th one on from the front post, and the Grosvenor defender poked the ball into his own net. 1-0!!!!
Allenton continued to press and just on half time,Billy whipped a ball into the box and the ball bounced between Thomas and the opposing keeper and both went for it. Although he cant remember much, other team members described the challenge as WWE like with both bodies crashing to the floor. Thomas came off the worst,fracturing his fore-arm, effectively ending his season.
Marc came on at half-time and put in a good shift, with Davide making way for the industrious Alan, who lead the line very well with a half-hour to go.
The game turned in Grosvenor's favour slightly when they pushed their centre-half up front and went with 3 in the middle of the park, but the back four of Fran, Jon, Rob and Barry handled all they could throw at them comfortably, even at the cost of a couple of yellow cards. Andre,Billy and Lee controlled the middle of the park and supplied good ball to Alan,Marc and Mick, who all could have put the game beyong Grosvenor with some good chances late on. Steve made two wonderful saves from Grosvenors biggest threat, their number 12, pushing one around the post and diving at his feet for the second to hand Allenton win number two of the season.
Allenton will hope to carry their form into the 1st round of the shield, Away to WFC, this Saturday at 3pm
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Match Review - Allenton United 2 - Shielton Athletic 1
Allenton United secured their first win of the season with a result that will send shock waves through the UCFL Division 3A.
High flying Shielton Athletic must have arrived to Johnstown Park confident of comfortably securing all three points but found an Allenton team in no mood to roll over.
Allenton had the best of the first half and deservedly went into the lead with a great finish from Thomas Hogan. Shielton were restricted to a handful of half chances but it still took a wonder headed clearance from Billy to maintain Allenton's lead into half time.
Shielton must have got a roasting from their gaffer as they came out all guns blazing in the second half, pinning Allenton United back in their own half for lengthy spells. Allenton held out until a deflected free kick found the top corner to bring the teams level.
It was at this point that a new Allenton United emerged. Instead of losing heads and gifting goals Allenton simply ran themselves into the ground to keep the scores level in the face of continued Shielton pressure. The back four lead by Jonathan Redmond and the impressive return of Rob Dwyer coupled with the harassing skills of Billy threw back everything Shielton threw at them.
Goalkeeper Steve had his best match in an Allenton shirt pulling off a number of great saves and collecting many a dangerous corner.
There are too many heroes to mention but Lee put in a great shift on the right of midfield with Andre committed as ever.
Controversy arrived with a double sending off as Mick and a Shielton forward where giving their marching orders for raising their hands.
Allenton coped better and where looking good for the draw when with 3 minutes left on the clock it happened. A slice of (hard earned) luck!
A through ball drew the Shielton goalkeeper to challenge feet first with the referee pointing straight to the spot. Andre tucked it away and despite the seconds ticking away in what seemed like slow motion the final whistle blew and Allenton had won. A win that was thoroughly deserved for sheer graft alone.
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Match Review - Allenton United 5 - Glasnaoin FC 2nds 5
Another crazy game for Allenton as they come back from the dead to secure a point in a game where they where also 5 minutes away from securing a historic first victory.
Allenton struggled against the wind first half which allowed Glasnaoin to dominate proceedings and secure a 3-0 half time lead which could have easily been four or five.
The second half was shaping up to be an exercise in damage limitation but Allenton, inspired by some super long range strikes by Jonathan Redmond coupled with Thomas Hogan finding the net and winning a penalty for Andre to coolly convert turned the game on it's head to lead 5-3 with ten minutes to go.
Unfortunately Glasnaoin rallied back with a goal and a penalty to send both teams home with a point which on balance was probably a fair result.
Allenton struggled against the wind first half which allowed Glasnaoin to dominate proceedings and secure a 3-0 half time lead which could have easily been four or five.
The second half was shaping up to be an exercise in damage limitation but Allenton, inspired by some super long range strikes by Jonathan Redmond coupled with Thomas Hogan finding the net and winning a penalty for Andre to coolly convert turned the game on it's head to lead 5-3 with ten minutes to go.
Unfortunately Glasnaoin rallied back with a goal and a penalty to send both teams home with a point which on balance was probably a fair result.
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Match Review - Allenton United 1 - Terenure 3rds 4
Allenton United would have claimed their second league win in a row if the UCFL would finally adopt our 'first goals the winner' proposal.
Again it was a story of two halfs, in the first Allenton controlled matters and took the lead thanks to a Jonathon Redmond thunder bolt from just inside his own half. One for the scrapbook. Terenure equalised with their first and pretty much only shot on goal to take the teams in level at half time.
The second half was a different story as Allenton struggled against the winds and long balls played by Terenure but again it was set pieces which did the damage with two goals coming from corners before Terenure added gloss to the result with a well worked fourth goal.
To compound the misery for Allenton Marc and Thomas Hogan both picked up injuries which could rule them out for the next few weeks.
Again it was a story of two halfs, in the first Allenton controlled matters and took the lead thanks to a Jonathon Redmond thunder bolt from just inside his own half. One for the scrapbook. Terenure equalised with their first and pretty much only shot on goal to take the teams in level at half time.
The second half was a different story as Allenton struggled against the winds and long balls played by Terenure but again it was set pieces which did the damage with two goals coming from corners before Terenure added gloss to the result with a well worked fourth goal.
To compound the misery for Allenton Marc and Thomas Hogan both picked up injuries which could rule them out for the next few weeks.
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Match Preview - Allenton United v Terenure 3rds
Allenton will host league leaders Terenure 3rds on Saturday 28th February at Johnstown Park, Tallaght for a 2:30pm kick off.
Terenure won the corresponding fixture 3-1 and on paper it will be a tough ask for Allenton.
Allenton will point to their display against Sportslink 2nds who were riding high in Division 3A when they edged Allenton 7-5 in a game that could have gone either way.
Terenure won the corresponding fixture 3-1 and on paper it will be a tough ask for Allenton.
Allenton will point to their display against Sportslink 2nds who were riding high in Division 3A when they edged Allenton 7-5 in a game that could have gone either way.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Match Review - Larkview Boys 3 - Allenton United 2
More disappointment as Allenton United lose by the odd goal in five in an evenly contested affair.
Larkview Boys were slow to start which allowed Allenton United to press forward and enjoy the majority of possession in the first half. Plenty of chances were passed by until Marc broke the deadlock for Allenton with a fine header. Unfortunately the lead lasted all of five minutes as a long throw caused confusion in the Allenton defence with the clearance falling kindly for a Larview Boys striker to find the bottom corner to send the teams into half-time level.
The play in the second half was more even and it was Larkview Boys who took the lead after a poorly defended corner allowed a shot to squirm in the bottom right corner. This could have easily been the cue for an Allenton collapse but the boys rallied and found an equaliser through Marc's second goal of the evening after some good build up play on the right.
A well deserved point was not to be as Larkview Boys scored the winning goal from a hotly disputed corner and despite some late Allenton pressure a second equaliser was not forthcoming.
On the plus side Allenton played good football at times and Steve made a sound debut as our new number one.
Larkview Boys were slow to start which allowed Allenton United to press forward and enjoy the majority of possession in the first half. Plenty of chances were passed by until Marc broke the deadlock for Allenton with a fine header. Unfortunately the lead lasted all of five minutes as a long throw caused confusion in the Allenton defence with the clearance falling kindly for a Larview Boys striker to find the bottom corner to send the teams into half-time level.
The play in the second half was more even and it was Larkview Boys who took the lead after a poorly defended corner allowed a shot to squirm in the bottom right corner. This could have easily been the cue for an Allenton collapse but the boys rallied and found an equaliser through Marc's second goal of the evening after some good build up play on the right.
A well deserved point was not to be as Larkview Boys scored the winning goal from a hotly disputed corner and despite some late Allenton pressure a second equaliser was not forthcoming.
On the plus side Allenton played good football at times and Steve made a sound debut as our new number one.
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Lights...Camera...Action!
Well there will be lights anyway as Allenton United visit Larkview Boys (Whelan Park, Kimmage) on Tuesday evening (24th February) for a 7:30pm kick-off.
Allenton will be hoping to have a full squad available for selection as the quest for that elusive first win continues.
Allenton will be hoping to have a full squad available for selection as the quest for that elusive first win continues.
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Call to Arms!
On Saturday we couldn't even afford our long suffering manager the option of bringing on a substitute.
We need everyone to make some sacrifices to make sure there available for selection on a Saturday. I fully realise it's not always possible with work commitments etc but this season every single drop out for a Saturday will hurt us.
Maybe I'll leave it to Braveheart to sum up my feelings best...
We need everyone to make some sacrifices to make sure there available for selection on a Saturday. I fully realise it's not always possible with work commitments etc but this season every single drop out for a Saturday will hurt us.
Maybe I'll leave it to Braveheart to sum up my feelings best...
Match Review - Strand Utd 3rds 5 - Allenton United 0
An under strength Allenton United suffered a St Valentines Day massacre at the hands of Strand Utd 3rds in a match which was marred by some quite astonishing refereeing and the sending off of club chairmen Thomas Hogan.
We failed to learn the lessons of 2008 and invited Strand Utd to dictate the play in the early stages. Two quickfire goals (a glancing header and a well placed shot) saw Strand Utd 3rds establish a commanding two goal lead mid way through the first half.
To our credit Allenton rallied and the match became an evenly contested affair which allowed for some optimism of a fight back in the second half.
The turning point in the match was undoubtedly the third goal which coincided with the dismissal of Thomas Hogan. The referee awarded a throw-in to Allenton which has to be said should have been awarded to Strand Utd but nevertheless led to several of our players standing bewildered when Strand Utd took the throw and scored from the resulting break away to end any hopes of a come back.
Understandably the whole team were incredulous about the decision. The referee decided that Thomas Hogan had taken his protestations too far and a straight red for dissent followed. Personally I'm from the school of "there's no point harassing the referee as he's not going to change his mind" and therefore it's very easy to criticise our own player for his actions.
However when you reflect on the standard week for Thomas as club chairmen a little more understanding comes to light. Monday is spent organising who is available for training, Tuesday training, Wednesday to Friday organising whose available for match day, Friday evening making sure the kit is in order, Saturday morning marking the pitch with two other players before finally making sure everyone is going to turn up and dealing with last minute call offs and that's before he even steps onto the pitch.
In short Thomas puts his heart into the club and is well aware of how desperate everyone is to get a win on the board and to see that chance ripped away harshly is a bitter pill to swallow.
Now back to the referee and I realise those that didn't see the game will be thinking it's a case of sour grapes on the back of a heavy defeat but let me qualify my criticism by saying that Strand United where worthy winners on the day and are by no means an overly physical team. However when blatant fouls and body checks are allowed to go unpunished it undermines the spirit of the game and the effort put in by our players.
The referee also seems to have read that you should wait to see if there is an advantage to be played before blowing but all too often this led for needless delays or even worse no decision.
After being reduced to 10 men it was always going to be a case of damage limitation and despite fighting to the final whistle Strand United capitalised on their numerical advantage with two late goals.
The result leaves us marooned at the bottom of the table but one things for sure. If we do go down we'll go down fighting!
We failed to learn the lessons of 2008 and invited Strand Utd to dictate the play in the early stages. Two quickfire goals (a glancing header and a well placed shot) saw Strand Utd 3rds establish a commanding two goal lead mid way through the first half.
To our credit Allenton rallied and the match became an evenly contested affair which allowed for some optimism of a fight back in the second half.
The turning point in the match was undoubtedly the third goal which coincided with the dismissal of Thomas Hogan. The referee awarded a throw-in to Allenton which has to be said should have been awarded to Strand Utd but nevertheless led to several of our players standing bewildered when Strand Utd took the throw and scored from the resulting break away to end any hopes of a come back.
Understandably the whole team were incredulous about the decision. The referee decided that Thomas Hogan had taken his protestations too far and a straight red for dissent followed. Personally I'm from the school of "there's no point harassing the referee as he's not going to change his mind" and therefore it's very easy to criticise our own player for his actions.
However when you reflect on the standard week for Thomas as club chairmen a little more understanding comes to light. Monday is spent organising who is available for training, Tuesday training, Wednesday to Friday organising whose available for match day, Friday evening making sure the kit is in order, Saturday morning marking the pitch with two other players before finally making sure everyone is going to turn up and dealing with last minute call offs and that's before he even steps onto the pitch.
In short Thomas puts his heart into the club and is well aware of how desperate everyone is to get a win on the board and to see that chance ripped away harshly is a bitter pill to swallow.
Now back to the referee and I realise those that didn't see the game will be thinking it's a case of sour grapes on the back of a heavy defeat but let me qualify my criticism by saying that Strand United where worthy winners on the day and are by no means an overly physical team. However when blatant fouls and body checks are allowed to go unpunished it undermines the spirit of the game and the effort put in by our players.
The referee also seems to have read that you should wait to see if there is an advantage to be played before blowing but all too often this led for needless delays or even worse no decision.
After being reduced to 10 men it was always going to be a case of damage limitation and despite fighting to the final whistle Strand United capitalised on their numerical advantage with two late goals.
The result leaves us marooned at the bottom of the table but one things for sure. If we do go down we'll go down fighting!
Friday, February 13, 2009
Match Preview - Strand Utd 3rds v Allenton United
Finally the bad weather has subsided long enough for one of the pitches to be deemed playable and the long anticipated relegation battle between Strand Utd 3rds v Allenton United will now take place at Allenton's home ground on Saturday 14th February at 2:30pm.
Allenton will be hoping to put 2008 behind them and get 2009 underway in style but are under no illusions that grabbing that all important first win will be an easy task.
Check back here for result (hopefully a winning one) and match review.
Allenton will be hoping to put 2008 behind them and get 2009 underway in style but are under no illusions that grabbing that all important first win will be an easy task.
Check back here for result (hopefully a winning one) and match review.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Match - Saturday 14th February
Weather permitting our first game of the year will be away to Strand Utd 3rds.
Kick Off is at 2:30pm.
Thomas will be in touch Friday lunchtime to confirm the match is on or otherwise.
Kick Off is at 2:30pm.
Thomas will be in touch Friday lunchtime to confirm the match is on or otherwise.
Training - Tuesday 10th February
Training is on at the usual time / usual place. Give Thomas a call if you're unable to make it
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