Allenton went into this round of 32 Challenge Cup game after a 3 week lay-off and faced higher level opponents for the 3rd time in the UCFL's premier cup competition.
Tough conditions faced both sides, with the severe weather of recent weeks taking its toll on the pitch in Tallaght, adding to the fact that the length of grass was practically unplayable. However, both teams soldiered on and had a quite enjoyable game.
Carton started brightly and took early control, but as for most of the match, we kept at bay and speculative efforts were all that really troubled Kevin Doyle for most of the day.
After a brief spell Allenton settled into the game, with Andre and Billy starting to take more control of the midfield. Andrew and Richie on both flanks kept the full-backs busy and made some vital tackles in these areas.
Some great set-piece taking from Andre saw Thomas, then Jon Redmond go close and the teams went in level at half-time. Andrew and Richie made way for Adam and Marc Gahan and Allenton were looking for a way to close out this very tricky encounter. And it came from a very unlikely source.
After Thomas had been fouled from a Barry Dwyer throw in, Rob hoisted a ball in on top of the Carton keeper. He mistimed it and the balled sailed straight over his head for Rob to celebrate his first competitive goal in over 2 years!!!
Allenton were in control at this stage, with Jon Redmond and Rob defending powerfully and after Mark Boland made way for Alan due to injury, the result looked to be going only one way. Splinter made sure of this with a cool finish, and the game was all but done. Marc Gahan played a nice ball in and Mick, only for a foul not given, could have made the tie completely beyond the away side.
Only blot on the card was a late consolation goal for Carton, but with 2 minutes to go, Allenton had enough to hold on and secure a tie against premier side VEC.
Monday, November 22, 2010
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Last 16 beckons.....
As I was away I dont have much of a report for our 2nd round Bedlow cup tie against Division 3 side Schalke Rovers 2nds.
From what I have heard it was a solid performance with two good goals from Jon Redmond and Bobby and capped off with a brilliant chip from Andre - goals from 3 of our most prolific scorers this season. Great to beat higher division opposition again.
The draw for the Bedlow Cup last 16 has paired us away to Francis F.C - a tough game if our recent encounter is anything to go by.
In the Challenge Cup if we can see off Div 3 side Carton we will be facing off against a Premier side for the 3rd year running - a home tie against VEC will await the winners of our yet to played scheduled 3rd round match.
The weather had our weekend fixture against Huddleboard scratched and with no game this weekend, it will be great to keep on this run when we return next week(weather permitting).
From what I have heard it was a solid performance with two good goals from Jon Redmond and Bobby and capped off with a brilliant chip from Andre - goals from 3 of our most prolific scorers this season. Great to beat higher division opposition again.
The draw for the Bedlow Cup last 16 has paired us away to Francis F.C - a tough game if our recent encounter is anything to go by.
In the Challenge Cup if we can see off Div 3 side Carton we will be facing off against a Premier side for the 3rd year running - a home tie against VEC will await the winners of our yet to played scheduled 3rd round match.
The weather had our weekend fixture against Huddleboard scratched and with no game this weekend, it will be great to keep on this run when we return next week(weather permitting).
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Allenton 2 - 1 Clontarf 3rds
On the back of a loss to Limekiln, Allenton looked to get back to winning ways against a Clontarf side who have only tasted victory once all season.
They sported an unrecogniseable side compared to the team that Allenton rolled over 5-0 in the Bedlow Cup only a few weeks back. And they put up more of a fight.
Allenton started brightly, with the midfield duo of Andre and Billy winning the battle early on. It culminated in a ball from Billy to Bobby and from the resulting corner Killian found Jon Redmond at the back post and he duly powered the ball home.
Clontarf rallied and hit the bar, and the ball broke to Bobby who ran 70 yards and pulled the ball back for Alan to tap in.
2 up at half time and the 2nd half was a pretty quiet affair. Allenton had very few chances and with 20 to go, Andrew and Splinter entered the fray for Thomas and Killian.
A very dubious penalty was awarded against Andre and although he went the right way, Kevin was beaten.
Allenton held on comfortably, limiting the visitors to long range efforts.
Another 3 points in the bag and with Francis and Rialto drawing and dropping points keeping Allenton involved in the shake up.
They sported an unrecogniseable side compared to the team that Allenton rolled over 5-0 in the Bedlow Cup only a few weeks back. And they put up more of a fight.
Allenton started brightly, with the midfield duo of Andre and Billy winning the battle early on. It culminated in a ball from Billy to Bobby and from the resulting corner Killian found Jon Redmond at the back post and he duly powered the ball home.
Clontarf rallied and hit the bar, and the ball broke to Bobby who ran 70 yards and pulled the ball back for Alan to tap in.
2 up at half time and the 2nd half was a pretty quiet affair. Allenton had very few chances and with 20 to go, Andrew and Splinter entered the fray for Thomas and Killian.
A very dubious penalty was awarded against Andre and although he went the right way, Kevin was beaten.
Allenton held on comfortably, limiting the visitors to long range efforts.
Another 3 points in the bag and with Francis and Rialto drawing and dropping points keeping Allenton involved in the shake up.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Allenton 2 - 4 Limekiln
Our 2nd defeat of the season came off the back of 5 wins on the bounce - but we hardly deserved better on Saturday.
Limekiln had some tidy players and we had a nightmare all over the pitch - conceding silly goals from open play and then not finishing our chances when they came about.
Clear cut chances came our way and honestly could say we missed at least 4 easy goal chances during the game.
Saying that, its the most we have conceded at home this season, even though we have more clean sheets this year than the whole of last season, we still havent managed one in Dodder Valley.
Not much to say about the game, Bobby scored 2 and although we worked until the finish, it wasnt enough.
Here's hoping we are over the blip and can get back to winning ways this Saturday, at home to Clontarf.
Limekiln had some tidy players and we had a nightmare all over the pitch - conceding silly goals from open play and then not finishing our chances when they came about.
Clear cut chances came our way and honestly could say we missed at least 4 easy goal chances during the game.
Saying that, its the most we have conceded at home this season, even though we have more clean sheets this year than the whole of last season, we still havent managed one in Dodder Valley.
Not much to say about the game, Bobby scored 2 and although we worked until the finish, it wasnt enough.
Here's hoping we are over the blip and can get back to winning ways this Saturday, at home to Clontarf.
Saturday, October 9, 2010
Allenton 4 - 2 Sportslink 3rds
A change in scheduled fixtures for both sides as Clontarf and Limekiln needed postponements, Allenton went into the game playing at home in the league for the first time in nearly a month, and hit the ground running.
Mick won a penalty early and converted, followed by Thomas scoring after a ball over the top. Bobby was flagged for offside when looked on and then Mick converted from an Andre corner and Allenton lead 3-0 and looked home and dry.
Before half-time some confusion allowed Sportslink to gain a lifeline, although that should have been put out when Andre blazed over.
Rob was removed from the action and Barry stepped in at centre-half and won everything in the air, with Mark dropping in at right full and Killian returning on the left.
3-1 at halftime and still looking comfortable, Allenton decided to take the foot off and allowed the away side a soft goal, which barely trundled over the line.
Richie came on for Mick and Allenton had numerous chances, with Billy, Bobby and Marc Gahan coming close and Jon Redmonds trademark thunderbolt was charged down.
With Sportslink pressing, A ball over the top saw Bobby through and he slotted it past the Sportslink keeper to finish the game off....
Mick won a penalty early and converted, followed by Thomas scoring after a ball over the top. Bobby was flagged for offside when looked on and then Mick converted from an Andre corner and Allenton lead 3-0 and looked home and dry.
Before half-time some confusion allowed Sportslink to gain a lifeline, although that should have been put out when Andre blazed over.
Rob was removed from the action and Barry stepped in at centre-half and won everything in the air, with Mark dropping in at right full and Killian returning on the left.
3-1 at halftime and still looking comfortable, Allenton decided to take the foot off and allowed the away side a soft goal, which barely trundled over the line.
Richie came on for Mick and Allenton had numerous chances, with Billy, Bobby and Marc Gahan coming close and Jon Redmonds trademark thunderbolt was charged down.
With Sportslink pressing, A ball over the top saw Bobby through and he slotted it past the Sportslink keeper to finish the game off....
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Ballymount 0 - 2 Allenton
Back to a league fixture after 3 consecutive cup matches, Allenton faced off against a Ballymount side who were looking to bounce back after a heavy defeat to Tymon Park neighbours Huddleboard.
The home side had a number of chances in the game, and passed the ball around nicely, as Allenton struggled to get out of first gear for the whole game.
It didnt stop the away side from taking all 3 points with Barry scoring from an Andre corner and Billy and Jon Redmond combining for the latter to blast one in the bottom corner from the edge of the box.
Allenton had a number of chances but in the end were lucky to escape against a side who on their day, look quite comfortable and could give most in the division something to think about.
Another league fixture beckons this weekend with a home fixture against Clontarf, who should be looking for revenge from the 5-0 defeat inflicted by Allenton in the Bedlow Cup 2 weeks ago.
The home side had a number of chances in the game, and passed the ball around nicely, as Allenton struggled to get out of first gear for the whole game.
It didnt stop the away side from taking all 3 points with Barry scoring from an Andre corner and Billy and Jon Redmond combining for the latter to blast one in the bottom corner from the edge of the box.
Allenton had a number of chances but in the end were lucky to escape against a side who on their day, look quite comfortable and could give most in the division something to think about.
Another league fixture beckons this weekend with a home fixture against Clontarf, who should be looking for revenge from the 5-0 defeat inflicted by Allenton in the Bedlow Cup 2 weeks ago.
Monday, September 27, 2010
Allenton 5 - 0 Clontarf 3rds - Sidney Bedlow 1st Round
Having missed out on a bye in the challenge cup and with only 8 teams out of 36 to be pulled out of the hat, we were hopeful to avoid a first round tie in the Bedlow. We were unfortunate to be pulled out of the hat,but drew a Clontarf side who havent really gotten going this season, still without a win in all competitions.
Allenton, on the other hand, could boast 2 wins in the Cup format against higher opposition, and went in to the game with a full strength squad for the first time this season.
Having opened the scoring through a great Marc Gahan header, we went in comfortably at half time, but rueing chances we should have taken.
The second half was a much better affair, and by the time Mick had completed his hat-trick, Tommy could afford to make wholesale changes and give Jonny, Mick and Billy a well earned rest.
Bobby completed the rout with a tidy finish, although Allenton had a good few other chances to make the score bigger.
Another clean sheet and into round 2 - and with teams dropping points means we are not losing too much ground in the league.
Allenton, on the other hand, could boast 2 wins in the Cup format against higher opposition, and went in to the game with a full strength squad for the first time this season.
Having opened the scoring through a great Marc Gahan header, we went in comfortably at half time, but rueing chances we should have taken.
The second half was a much better affair, and by the time Mick had completed his hat-trick, Tommy could afford to make wholesale changes and give Jonny, Mick and Billy a well earned rest.
Bobby completed the rout with a tidy finish, although Allenton had a good few other chances to make the score bigger.
Another clean sheet and into round 2 - and with teams dropping points means we are not losing too much ground in the league.
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Allenton 4 - 3 Rathmichael
2 weeks on the trot in the Challenge Cup against higher division opposition and now twice successful. Allenton took on 2b newcomers on a wet and windy afternoon in Dodder Valley.
After a brightish start, Allenton took the lead through Andre,a great strike after a corner was cleared properly. Allenton bagged another through Thomas, a left footer and they looked in control. Mick added a penalty in his first game back after Rathmichaels centre half handled in the area but a lapse to let rathmichael back in brought it to 3-1.It was quickly cancelled out with a great team goal from the hosts, starting with Billy on the edge of his own box, who collected again inside the opposing half who fed Bobby on the right to launch a great cross for Thomas to Nod home and Allenton went in at the break cruising and looking like taking another cup scalp.
Second half Allenton continued to defend well with Kevin commanding and the back four of Barry, Rob, Jon and Cillian all looking Solid. Andrew had a great chance to make it 5-1 but the keeper pulled off a great save.Billy also hit the crossbar with a looping free-kick and Allenton never looked in danger of losing. Mick made way for Alan and Allenton continued to press, with Billy and Andre keeping the midfield duo of the away side fairly quiet. Richie made his long awaited comeback from injury to replace Thomas with 15 to go and the game looked comfortably in the bag.
Then the ref intervened, after a soft goal from Rathmichael, the ref awarded a penalty and gave Andre his marching orders, even though it was for a second yellow and he hadnt been booked in the first place. He protested in some colorful language and was sent off, Allenton down to 10 with 4 minutres to go and still a goal ahead. They held on and now almost certainly face higher Divison oppostion in round 3 as the majority of lower division sides have been knocked out...
After a brightish start, Allenton took the lead through Andre,a great strike after a corner was cleared properly. Allenton bagged another through Thomas, a left footer and they looked in control. Mick added a penalty in his first game back after Rathmichaels centre half handled in the area but a lapse to let rathmichael back in brought it to 3-1.It was quickly cancelled out with a great team goal from the hosts, starting with Billy on the edge of his own box, who collected again inside the opposing half who fed Bobby on the right to launch a great cross for Thomas to Nod home and Allenton went in at the break cruising and looking like taking another cup scalp.
Second half Allenton continued to defend well with Kevin commanding and the back four of Barry, Rob, Jon and Cillian all looking Solid. Andrew had a great chance to make it 5-1 but the keeper pulled off a great save.Billy also hit the crossbar with a looping free-kick and Allenton never looked in danger of losing. Mick made way for Alan and Allenton continued to press, with Billy and Andre keeping the midfield duo of the away side fairly quiet. Richie made his long awaited comeback from injury to replace Thomas with 15 to go and the game looked comfortably in the bag.
Then the ref intervened, after a soft goal from Rathmichael, the ref awarded a penalty and gave Andre his marching orders, even though it was for a second yellow and he hadnt been booked in the first place. He protested in some colorful language and was sent off, Allenton down to 10 with 4 minutres to go and still a goal ahead. They held on and now almost certainly face higher Divison oppostion in round 3 as the majority of lower division sides have been knocked out...
Friday, September 17, 2010
Allenton 4 -2 Glenmalure Rovers
3 seasons of trying and a Challenge Cup win finally came Allenton's way in round 1, against Div 2a high flyers Glenmalure Rovers.
You could see they had come to take the victory and advance without too much to do and although Allenton had only 12 to choose from, they set the tempo early, with 2 great strikes including a left footer from Andre and the visitors were shocked.
They pulled it back to 2-2, although one was a dubious offside decision early in the 2nd half.
Allenton regained the lead through Bobby who finished well. Glenmalure were pushing for an equaliser when Bobby latched on to a ball on the halfway line and pulled back for Thomas to score and advance to round 2 against Rathmichael this Saturday.
You could see they had come to take the victory and advance without too much to do and although Allenton had only 12 to choose from, they set the tempo early, with 2 great strikes including a left footer from Andre and the visitors were shocked.
They pulled it back to 2-2, although one was a dubious offside decision early in the 2nd half.
Allenton regained the lead through Bobby who finished well. Glenmalure were pushing for an equaliser when Bobby latched on to a ball on the halfway line and pulled back for Thomas to score and advance to round 2 against Rathmichael this Saturday.
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
2010-2011 August Round-Up
Back in 3a after a short spell in 3b and it seems like we've never been here before.
Only two of our opponents this season were around when we last hit the dizzy heights of 3a, Sportslink & Moorfield, with no less than 7 brand new clubs and 2 who have been relegated promoted since 09.
Having lost a few in the summer(Alex, Paul, Alan, John Paul), we gained a few also, in Adam(Splinter), Ian Monks, Paddy Cosgrove. Even still we've had to recruit help in the first few games as injury has taken its toll on Mick, Ian, Splinter,Paddy and Richie.
At this stage we have played 4 league games, one called off due to a team folding and another due to the crazy weather of Monday last. Here's a quick rundown
Springbank 2 - 2 Allenton
Having headed to Rathcoole Park on the back of some promising pre-season performances, we were hoping that our UCFL experience would help us overcome a young Springbank side. It looked that way for the most of the game. Thomas scored a header in the first half from a long throw, although he scored he doesnt really remember it as the keeper finished what he started and went through him.... Allenton cruising and Marc Gahan had some chances but the 2nd goal evaded us. Until Splinter, after a long ball found him on the edge of the opponents box early in the 2nd half, hit a speculative effort towards goal, which the Springbank keeper dropped in the net and helped cement the lead. Then we decided that the game was over, and let Springbank back in, scoring 2 from over the top of our back four and putting them level with little time left. We did try and push for the winner but to no avail and left with a bad taste in our mouths vowing revenge in the valley in the return fixture.
Brookfield Celtic 2 - Allenton Utd 3
Best way to describe this game is the villan/hero take on it. Billy had put Allenton ahead with a fine header, and we were cruising, 1-0 at half time and it looked like the only result. Brookfield came out fighting, nicked one back and after Bobby was stupidly caught in posession, we were 2-1 down and looking worried. Bobby redeemed himself after latching onto 2 seperate balls and cooly finishing twice to give us our first victory of the season in our first home game.
Huddleboard 0 - 5 Allenton Utd
With injury still hampering us, we welcomed back Paul and Alan, who helped make our next away and only midweek fixture of the early campaign a successful one. Tymon Park and for a change a nice evening, and opposition that could quote a squad of 27 made it a daunting task. But after Marc Gahan had turned in the first and the Huddle No.6 scored a spectacular headed O.G, the result was only heading one way.
In the second half, Andre added, a rare left footer, and Andrew got off the mark for the season, bringing the keeper one way and cooly passing it the other side of him. As is the standard, Alan came off the bench and grabbed a goal, making the result and clean sheet secure.
Allenton 2 - 3 Francis F.C
Francis F.C came to the valley and this always looked like an interesting clash, and it proved to be so. Francis had lots of experience and it showed, and they were value for their lead. Johnny Redmond blasted a ball straight into the top corner to make matters even and even though the visitors scored again, a breakaway move resulted in a tap-in for Marc Gahan to level the tie.
The hosts had a number of chances in the second half but the controversial penalty awarded by the ref who was standing at least 45 yards from the incident put paid to any hopes of a share of the points. A really good game of ball played in a tough but good spirited way and we look forward to the return in Brickfields later in the season.
Only two of our opponents this season were around when we last hit the dizzy heights of 3a, Sportslink & Moorfield, with no less than 7 brand new clubs and 2 who have been relegated promoted since 09.
Having lost a few in the summer(Alex, Paul, Alan, John Paul), we gained a few also, in Adam(Splinter), Ian Monks, Paddy Cosgrove. Even still we've had to recruit help in the first few games as injury has taken its toll on Mick, Ian, Splinter,Paddy and Richie.
At this stage we have played 4 league games, one called off due to a team folding and another due to the crazy weather of Monday last. Here's a quick rundown
Springbank 2 - 2 Allenton
Having headed to Rathcoole Park on the back of some promising pre-season performances, we were hoping that our UCFL experience would help us overcome a young Springbank side. It looked that way for the most of the game. Thomas scored a header in the first half from a long throw, although he scored he doesnt really remember it as the keeper finished what he started and went through him.... Allenton cruising and Marc Gahan had some chances but the 2nd goal evaded us. Until Splinter, after a long ball found him on the edge of the opponents box early in the 2nd half, hit a speculative effort towards goal, which the Springbank keeper dropped in the net and helped cement the lead. Then we decided that the game was over, and let Springbank back in, scoring 2 from over the top of our back four and putting them level with little time left. We did try and push for the winner but to no avail and left with a bad taste in our mouths vowing revenge in the valley in the return fixture.
Brookfield Celtic 2 - Allenton Utd 3
Best way to describe this game is the villan/hero take on it. Billy had put Allenton ahead with a fine header, and we were cruising, 1-0 at half time and it looked like the only result. Brookfield came out fighting, nicked one back and after Bobby was stupidly caught in posession, we were 2-1 down and looking worried. Bobby redeemed himself after latching onto 2 seperate balls and cooly finishing twice to give us our first victory of the season in our first home game.
Huddleboard 0 - 5 Allenton Utd
With injury still hampering us, we welcomed back Paul and Alan, who helped make our next away and only midweek fixture of the early campaign a successful one. Tymon Park and for a change a nice evening, and opposition that could quote a squad of 27 made it a daunting task. But after Marc Gahan had turned in the first and the Huddle No.6 scored a spectacular headed O.G, the result was only heading one way.
In the second half, Andre added, a rare left footer, and Andrew got off the mark for the season, bringing the keeper one way and cooly passing it the other side of him. As is the standard, Alan came off the bench and grabbed a goal, making the result and clean sheet secure.
Allenton 2 - 3 Francis F.C
Francis F.C came to the valley and this always looked like an interesting clash, and it proved to be so. Francis had lots of experience and it showed, and they were value for their lead. Johnny Redmond blasted a ball straight into the top corner to make matters even and even though the visitors scored again, a breakaway move resulted in a tap-in for Marc Gahan to level the tie.
The hosts had a number of chances in the second half but the controversial penalty awarded by the ref who was standing at least 45 yards from the incident put paid to any hopes of a share of the points. A really good game of ball played in a tough but good spirited way and we look forward to the return in Brickfields later in the season.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Put away until August
So with 2 games to go for us, Terenure had to play White Star and Green Bay before we kicked a ball, White Star missing a last minute pen to lose 3-2 and Green Bay fielding only 9 players, then had their keeper sent off, with terenure blasting 11 goals with only one in reply.
So 4 points behind with two games to go we headed to ST Annes knowing anything less than a win would put us out of the title race and back into a battle to gain runners-up spot and promotion also.
And we didnt cover ourselves in glory, a last minute pitch change meant a frantic rush to the sidelines and some players were still lacing up their boots as the ref blew for kick-off.
Having gone 2-0 down at the break we had made mistakes but were still in the game. The ref was awful, ushering away at least one clear penalty and this led to the sending off of Billy, who wasnt happy with the decision. Cue some dreadful defending and 3 easy goals for White Star and Allenton feeling like it was the middle of last season all over again.
As it transpired, Terenure had secured the title with a hard fought away win to VEC on the same night, which meant we needed a point against the newly crowned champions to guarantee our place in 3a for next season.
We started with Alan up front as the lone striker and he played a pivotal part, winning and converting another penalty, and adding another in the second half. Bobby Clarke scored another great goal, cutting in from the edge of the box and putting it beyond the keepers reach.
A great result to end the season was marred by the ridiculous sending off of Andre but we head off into the summer in a positive light, looking forward to another crack at 3a next season.
Big thanks this season to everyone involved: All the lads who helped mark pitches and get set-up on a saturday - especially the day we cut the pitch with 2 petrol mowers, without them we wouldnt be able to play on a Saturday.
Congrats to the whole team and to Tommy, 3 league defeats in a season is a good season in any league, and to score over 80 goals along the way is great - well done to Mick our top scorer with 32(think thats right) and to everyone who played a part this season. We had over 20 players play this season so you all know who you are.
See you in August, hopefully our season in 3a will be better than 2 years ago.
So 4 points behind with two games to go we headed to ST Annes knowing anything less than a win would put us out of the title race and back into a battle to gain runners-up spot and promotion also.
And we didnt cover ourselves in glory, a last minute pitch change meant a frantic rush to the sidelines and some players were still lacing up their boots as the ref blew for kick-off.
Having gone 2-0 down at the break we had made mistakes but were still in the game. The ref was awful, ushering away at least one clear penalty and this led to the sending off of Billy, who wasnt happy with the decision. Cue some dreadful defending and 3 easy goals for White Star and Allenton feeling like it was the middle of last season all over again.
As it transpired, Terenure had secured the title with a hard fought away win to VEC on the same night, which meant we needed a point against the newly crowned champions to guarantee our place in 3a for next season.
We started with Alan up front as the lone striker and he played a pivotal part, winning and converting another penalty, and adding another in the second half. Bobby Clarke scored another great goal, cutting in from the edge of the box and putting it beyond the keepers reach.
A great result to end the season was marred by the ridiculous sending off of Andre but we head off into the summer in a positive light, looking forward to another crack at 3a next season.
Big thanks this season to everyone involved: All the lads who helped mark pitches and get set-up on a saturday - especially the day we cut the pitch with 2 petrol mowers, without them we wouldnt be able to play on a Saturday.
Congrats to the whole team and to Tommy, 3 league defeats in a season is a good season in any league, and to score over 80 goals along the way is great - well done to Mick our top scorer with 32(think thats right) and to everyone who played a part this season. We had over 20 players play this season so you all know who you are.
See you in August, hopefully our season in 3a will be better than 2 years ago.
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
The Season Finale(s)
As I finally got a job the poor oul blog has been neglected, so I better get all up to speed seeing as we only have two games to go.
I left off with the win at home to Riverside 5-2 so here goes:
Having no cup interest left we had only the league and shield to go for and the shield didnt pan out very well. With 3b fairly advanced in its league program, we were split into two halves to play 5 games and the winner of each section advanced to the final. A quick rundown of these games as we didnt quite make it:
Home to WFC we lost 2-1 WFC keeping their hoodoo over us
Away to VEC we won 3-2 after being 2-0 down with Andre on the scoresheet twice
Away to Terenure we Drew Andrew scoring a cracker and Bobby Clarke netting a nice lob
Away to Riverside we lost 2-1 with a freak own goal
Away to White Star we lost 4-1 with a goal from Mick
So no advancement in the Shield which WFC ultimately won 5-2 in the final against Chapelizod.
Anyway having had a great first half of the season and winning our first league game of the new year the trip to WFC should have suited us. However we were well beaten again and 5-2 couldve been more, a good pen from Alan rounding off a disapointing day after Marc had scored earlier on. We were missing a few that day but no excuses, WFC seem to have our number at the moment and they are the only side to have beaten us in the league this season.
February rolled in and we faced St.Marys at home, winning 5-2 and having Marc, Mick and others that elude me right now on the scoresheet.
We then faced VEC for the second time this season, drawing 3-3 from being 2-0 down and having a man sent off, and probably should have won. Mick, Thomas and Andrew on the mark.
Galvanised by the result we went on to beat Chapelizod 2-0 in the lawns, and win 4-1 away at St.Marys, Mick scoring a brace and Fran scoring a goal of his own making from start to finish.
Then came 2 high scoring home fixtures, first a 9-2 mauling of Bolton Street with numerous scorers including Mick with 4, followed by a home win of 6-1 against Green Bay, with another Mick Hat-trick and Billy on the scoresheet with a great header after Fran had hit the post. Alan also chipped in with a customary cameo goal. Also well done to Barry on his first goal back from his horrific injury.
So having not lost in the league in over 3 months we travelled to bushy park to face Terenure, who although 3rd at the time had lots of game to play catch-up. We were missing some key personnel, with our regular centre half pairing of Paul and Rob separated for the first time in a good few games with Rob out injured and Alex also missing. Mark Boland slotted in well and looked comfortable enough only to be injured and resume at his usual left full berth for the rest of the game. We took the lead, a well worked move from the left, thrown in from Andre to Thomas, who's cross was blocked only to find Bobby in the box who laid off well for Mick to fire his 31st goal of the season curling into the far corner. From there Terenure took over a bit, and we were thankful of Kevin in goal, making some great saves with his feet. Fran and Barry also made contributions at the back and we looked like holding out until Terenure scored early in the second half and followed up to take the lead.Billy and Yev who had never played together before pressed hard in the middle of the park. Thomas, Fran and Paul made way for Jon Red, Andrew and Alan and we started to get forward, but the pressing resulted in a breakaway for terenure, who were awarded a penalty. Kevin brilliantly saved the pen and we pushed on with 10 minutes to go. After 2 big penalty claims being denied, Bobby burst into the box after a ball from Andrew and was pushed over by the Terenure defender who was trying to shepard the ball out of play
, PENALTY!!!
He gave that one and Alan was as cool as a cucumber as he slotted it home to ensure we are still in the title race. Two games left, and if we win both we have a great chance of winning the League. Terenure have to face off against 2 of the top 4 between now and then so hopefully it will go right to the wire.
I left off with the win at home to Riverside 5-2 so here goes:
Having no cup interest left we had only the league and shield to go for and the shield didnt pan out very well. With 3b fairly advanced in its league program, we were split into two halves to play 5 games and the winner of each section advanced to the final. A quick rundown of these games as we didnt quite make it:
Home to WFC we lost 2-1 WFC keeping their hoodoo over us
Away to VEC we won 3-2 after being 2-0 down with Andre on the scoresheet twice
Away to Terenure we Drew Andrew scoring a cracker and Bobby Clarke netting a nice lob
Away to Riverside we lost 2-1 with a freak own goal
Away to White Star we lost 4-1 with a goal from Mick
So no advancement in the Shield which WFC ultimately won 5-2 in the final against Chapelizod.
Anyway having had a great first half of the season and winning our first league game of the new year the trip to WFC should have suited us. However we were well beaten again and 5-2 couldve been more, a good pen from Alan rounding off a disapointing day after Marc had scored earlier on. We were missing a few that day but no excuses, WFC seem to have our number at the moment and they are the only side to have beaten us in the league this season.
February rolled in and we faced St.Marys at home, winning 5-2 and having Marc, Mick and others that elude me right now on the scoresheet.
We then faced VEC for the second time this season, drawing 3-3 from being 2-0 down and having a man sent off, and probably should have won. Mick, Thomas and Andrew on the mark.
Galvanised by the result we went on to beat Chapelizod 2-0 in the lawns, and win 4-1 away at St.Marys, Mick scoring a brace and Fran scoring a goal of his own making from start to finish.
Then came 2 high scoring home fixtures, first a 9-2 mauling of Bolton Street with numerous scorers including Mick with 4, followed by a home win of 6-1 against Green Bay, with another Mick Hat-trick and Billy on the scoresheet with a great header after Fran had hit the post. Alan also chipped in with a customary cameo goal. Also well done to Barry on his first goal back from his horrific injury.
So having not lost in the league in over 3 months we travelled to bushy park to face Terenure, who although 3rd at the time had lots of game to play catch-up. We were missing some key personnel, with our regular centre half pairing of Paul and Rob separated for the first time in a good few games with Rob out injured and Alex also missing. Mark Boland slotted in well and looked comfortable enough only to be injured and resume at his usual left full berth for the rest of the game. We took the lead, a well worked move from the left, thrown in from Andre to Thomas, who's cross was blocked only to find Bobby in the box who laid off well for Mick to fire his 31st goal of the season curling into the far corner. From there Terenure took over a bit, and we were thankful of Kevin in goal, making some great saves with his feet. Fran and Barry also made contributions at the back and we looked like holding out until Terenure scored early in the second half and followed up to take the lead.Billy and Yev who had never played together before pressed hard in the middle of the park. Thomas, Fran and Paul made way for Jon Red, Andrew and Alan and we started to get forward, but the pressing resulted in a breakaway for terenure, who were awarded a penalty. Kevin brilliantly saved the pen and we pushed on with 10 minutes to go. After 2 big penalty claims being denied, Bobby burst into the box after a ball from Andrew and was pushed over by the Terenure defender who was trying to shepard the ball out of play
, PENALTY!!!
He gave that one and Alan was as cool as a cucumber as he slotted it home to ensure we are still in the title race. Two games left, and if we win both we have a great chance of winning the League. Terenure have to face off against 2 of the top 4 between now and then so hopefully it will go right to the wire.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
On The trail
The new year kicked off brightly enough with a hard fought win over resilient Riverside.
Tommy was able to name a largely unchanged side, with Andrew coming in on the left after some promising shows in training. And almost finished a great move early on.
Mick bagged 2 unanswered goals when the opposition nicked one back, before Thomas scored a pen after Riversides No.5 handled on the line. Shouldve marched but the referee only brandished a yellow.
Kiko and Andrew made way for Alex and Richie and the away side bagged a freak goal which decieved the otherwise impressive Kevin in goal.
Held on well only for Mick to be sent off for an off the ball altercation. Not too bad though, only a one game ban.
Away to our friends WFC this weekend,always and interesting game, hopefully we can break our league duck against them
Tommy was able to name a largely unchanged side, with Andrew coming in on the left after some promising shows in training. And almost finished a great move early on.
Mick bagged 2 unanswered goals when the opposition nicked one back, before Thomas scored a pen after Riversides No.5 handled on the line. Shouldve marched but the referee only brandished a yellow.
Kiko and Andrew made way for Alex and Richie and the away side bagged a freak goal which decieved the otherwise impressive Kevin in goal.
Held on well only for Mick to be sent off for an off the ball altercation. Not too bad though, only a one game ban.
Away to our friends WFC this weekend,always and interesting game, hopefully we can break our league duck against them
Monday, January 4, 2010
Up To Speed
Just a quick note to bring us bang up to date - I left off with us having played 7 in the league and not much has progressed from there.
We unfortunately lost out in the Leinster Junior to Spartak Dynamo, unlucky on a horrible day in Dodder Valley.
And to add to our misery we were knocked out of the Sidney Bedlow by White Star, in a game that could have gone either way.
In the league we have completed reverse fixtures against CMH winning both games, 5-1 and 3-2 respectively leaving us 2nd, 7 points off Terenures breakneck pace.
We unfortunately lost out in the Leinster Junior to Spartak Dynamo, unlucky on a horrible day in Dodder Valley.
And to add to our misery we were knocked out of the Sidney Bedlow by White Star, in a game that could have gone either way.
In the league we have completed reverse fixtures against CMH winning both games, 5-1 and 3-2 respectively leaving us 2nd, 7 points off Terenures breakneck pace.
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