Match Report: Naas AFC vs Arlington AFC

Friday 2 May 2025, 18:45

Runners Up Secured

On another lovely sun shining Friday night, the M3 team secured the three points needed to confirm runners up. Any nerves that may have been present didn’t show as Naas hassled their opponents from the very off, chasing the ball back and forcing a corner in the opening minute. Nothing came from that opportunity, but in the fourth minute, Bobby intercepted a pass and after beating a midfielder, played Ben through. Ben made no mistake as he slotted the ball home into the far corner.

The second goal followed soon after as the pressure on the ball increased. The ball was knocked back to the Arlington keeper, who was chased down by Fionn, Luke, and Scott Byrne. The keeper could only manage to clear the ball to the edge of the area where Ben controlled his clearance and sent it into the back of the net.

The third goal arrived before half time and was owed as much to Scott McGarr’s persistence as it was to the finish. Scott won the ball out wide on the Naas right before taking off down the line, beating three Arlington defenders before sending in a wicked cross which Ben met on the volley to claim his hat trick.

Into the second half, Naas continued to play. Arlington was still looking to cause trouble, but the back four and Noah in goal held strong when questions were asked of them. The fourth goal saw Ben turn provider as he beat a couple of defenders inside the box before finding Bobby free inside the six-yard box. Bobby wasn’t going to miss. Jayden then tested the Arlington team as his weaving run took him past five players before his shot was blocked on the line. Ben was brought down inside the area, but the Arlington keeper saved well from Luke’s spot kick. The final goal arrived from the foot of Harry after some sublime skill from Fionn.

The lads’ hard work throughout the season has given them their just reward as they finish runners up to a very good Sallins team.