**Kilcullen AFC vs Naas AFC: A Gripping Encounter**
In a captivating clash in the KDUL U17 League, Kilcullen AFC faced off against Naas AFC on Saturday, November 1. The final score saw Naas claim a well-deserved victory at 4-2, but the match was anything but straightforward.
From the very start, Naas demonstrated their intent. Although Kilcullen set out to frustrate their opponents, it was the visitors who quickly asserted their dominance. Just four minutes into the game, Isaac Cramer found the back of the net after a slick move, only for the goal to be controversially ruled out for offside. Undeterred, Naas kept their foot on the pedal.
Huey Phelan, a key player for Naas, showcased his skills just 15 minutes in, curling a stunning free kick into the top corner to take Naas ahead 1-0. However, Kilcullen responded fiercely, equalizing five minutes later with their own free kick.
As the match progressed, the tempo became frantic, but against the run of play, Kilcullen struck again to lead 2-1 at the 30-minute mark. Naas wasn’t about to back down, and they answered with relentless pressure, highlighted by Jack Tilly nearly scoring with a thunderous attempt.
The equalizer came in spectacular fashion. Phelan delivered a marvelous cross that Ryan Murtagh met perfectly, hammering it home to bring the score to 2-2 just before halftime.
With the second half underway, Naas ramped up their efforts. Liam O’Shea became pivotal, producing a stunning shot that hit the back of the net in the 69th minute, giving Naas a 3-2 advantage.
Now surging, Naas continued attacking. After an 86th-minute corner was nearly converted, a moment of brilliance from Conor Fagan set up Mattias Azzopardi, who gracefully maneuvered past defenders to seal the game with a fourth goal in the dying moments.
Naas managed to close out the match with total control, launching waves of attacks. Notably, Phelan almost netted another spectacular free kick that rattled the crossbar, while Greene’s shot prompted a brilliant save from Kilcullen’s keeper.
When the referee blew the final whistle, it was clear that Naas had earned their victory through sheer determination and skill. Every player shone during the match, with standout performances from:
– **Alex Higgins**: Key in goal, making vital saves.
– **Greene, Dooley, Tilly, Giltrap, and Power**: Formed a sturdy defense.
– **O’Shea, Azzopardi, Murtagh, Phelan, Campbell, Muthi, and Kolter**: Dominated the midfield with flair and energy.
– **Onwere, Cramer, and Fagan**: Vital in pushing forward with pace.
Kilcullen aimed to play defensively to snag a draw, but Naas AFC’s relentless ambition to win set the tone for this thrilling encounter!