Boys U16 (2010) Premier 2:1 Clongorey

Date: 15 Nov

First Half

Match Report: Naas 2–1 Clongorey (U16 League)

Naas entered the tie looking to respond after their recent setback against Clane, and they started with real purpose on the Kerdiffstown astro. Early pressure saw Conor Murtagh go close from 12 yards, before another well-worked move down the left ended with Matthew McCarthy firing over from just inside the box.

Second Half

The breakthrough, however, was worth the wait. Excellent combination play in midfield between Sean Stafford, who was excellent today and James Collins released Ned Keogh, who spread the ball wide to Jack O Brien. His pinpoint delivery to the penalty spot was met first-time by Keogh, who hooked a superb finish into the far corner to give Naas a deserved lead.

Naas continued to carve out opportunities but couldn’t find the second goal. Clongorey slowly grew into the contest, striking the post with a dangerous effort that Charlie McCafferty did brilliantly to tip onto the woodwork. The visitors pressed again before the interval and went in at half-time with confidence rising.

At half time Naas brought on fresh legs in Aaron O Donnell and Max Galvin.

The Naas management demanded more intensity for the second period, and the response was immediate. Inside 60 seconds, substitute Max Galvin won possession in midfield and slipped Jack through on goal. His first effort was blocked, but persistence paid off as he bundled home the rebound to double the advantage.

The remainder of the half was more subdued, with Naas controlling the game without creating many clear chances. Clongorey relied on set pieces, and with three minutes left they found a lifeline. A long free kick was flicked on by Evan Moriarty, the ball looping into the net to set up a tense finish.

The final moments were frantic, but Naas showed resilience, typified by a defensive header by Cian Leonard, saving a definite goal. saw the game out to secure a hard-earned victory and a response to last week’s defeat.

Overall a patchy performance by Naas, but ground out a win against a strong, direct and quick Clongorey side.

Scorers: Ned Keogh, Jack O Brien