UNDER 14 DIVISION 1
CARRIGALINE UNITED: 6
KINSALE FC : 1
Saturday saw the clash of the titans with top of the first division Carrigaline facing second place Kinsale. From the first whistle both teams knew it was going to be a close encounter and they were right. For the first ten minutes it was a bitter fight for possession but Carrigaline were first to make their mark. Jenny Byrne passed from the right to find Kelly O’Leary who placed a superb cross right in front of the Kinsale goal. This beautiful cross found the boot of Rachel Griffin who volleyed it home. Laura Coughlan and Mary McGuinness fought valiantly for Carrigaline in midfield, while Leanne Fitzgerald and Karen Cole were unlucky not to score for Carrig again.
Going into the second half it was all to play for. However five minutes into the second half Rachel Griffin crossed to Kelly O’Leary who buried the ball into the Kinsale goal. Kinsale were once again on the attack but the defensive line up of Jenny Byrne, Ruan McSweeney, Zoe Newenham and Shannon Bateman confidently staved off any chance of an attack.
Carrig’s third goal began with Anna O’Keeffe clearing from the right to find Rachel Griffin who placed the ball in the six yard box and was slotted home by Deborah Koffi. Kinsale retaliated with a smashing goal from Leah O’Sullivan. Rachel Griffin was next to find the net while she also provided the cross for the next goal which was bulleted into goal by Carrig captain Kelly O’Leary. Once again Kinsale responded with another attack in the Carrig half which was well defended by keeper Grace Bateman and defender Orla Murphy. Rachel Griffin, Eimear Drummond and Diamante Lusakaite launched a convincing attack in the Kinsale half but to no avail. Captain Kelly O’Leary’s hat-trick came from a well placed free by Jenny Byrne bringing Carrigaline’s tally up to six goals.
The score finished 6-1 with Carrigaline emerging as convincing winners. However Kinsale fought courageously throughout and are certainly the team to watch. Haley Kiely, Leah O’Sullivan, Maria Green and Sarah Walsh played excellent for Kinsale.
Report from Niamh Drummond - Carrigaline
UNDER 18 LEAGUE
LAKEWOOD ATHLETIC: 5
BALLINCOLLIG : 1
Lakewood got off to a flyer and were 2 nil up after 10 minutes through goals from Kelly Sugrue and a wonder goal from Rebecca Kearney. A depleted Ballincollig worked very hard and their keeper Ellen Jackson made 2 great saves to keep the score at 2 nil at the break. Lakewood increased the score through Kellie Tobin, Rebecca Kearney and Olivia Lyons before Zoe Murphy got one back for Ballincollig.
Best for Lakewood were Niamh Foley, Yvonne Cahill and Amy McCarthy. Best for Ballincollig Amy Wilson, Stephanie Murphy and Wendy Cahill.
Report from Ger Cahill
UNDER 14 DIVISION 1
KINSALE : 3
YOUGHAL UNITED : 2
The game kicked off just after noon on a fine surface in Kinsale's Madden Park.
Youghal got off to a better start as the Kinsale girls were sluggish. Youghal took the lead after 7 minutes with a good strike by Clare Kenwin after good work on the wing.
Kinsale were starting to wake up and responded with the equaliser after 12 minutes with a sweet strike by in form Sarah Berguin. However two minutes later Youghal once again took the lead with a goal from Jessica Lawton. The first have was very exciting with great passages of play from both teams.
Five minutes into the second half and with the wind at their backs, Kinsale stormed up field and equalised for the second time from a great strike by Marie Greene.
Now we certainly had a game on our hands and Kinsale were in control. A great passage of play by Leah O'Sullivan and a great shot was goal bound only for a great save by the Youghal keeper Jessica Savan. Kinsale were piling on the pressure and should have gone ahead but Youghal fought back in the last fifteen minutes and had chances of their own. With three minutes left on the clock, Kinsale seized on the ball in midfield and pressed forward, the ball fell to Marie Greene who calmly put it to the keeper’s right and into the net.Youghal attacked in the final minutes but could not get past a resolute kinsale defence. Final score a 3 – 2 home win for Kinsale.
This was a very keenly fought game with great performances by both teams. Best for Youghal were Jessica Lawton, Rachel Galvin and goalkeeper Jessica Savan.
Kinsale were best served by Hayley Kiely who played a blinder at central defence ably assisted by Caoimhe Hill. Marie Green took both her goals well and Leah O'Sullivan and Sarah Berguin were strong up front.
Jack Walsh
Kinsale A.F.C
UNDER 12 DIVISION 2
RIVERSTOWN FC: 0
RICHMOND FC: 0
When ghosts and ghoulies were out scaring people around Glanmire this Halloween, Riverstown and Richmond played out an exciting draw at Eastcliff. Following two wins in a row, the Riverstown girls were in flying form and eagerly looking forward to the game. The game got off to a fairly slow start with both teams probing each others defenses. This was more like a chess game than a soccer match with both teams perfectly matched in every position. The midfield area saw most of the play and defenses on both sides were on top. Aileen McGrath and Ciara O'Sullivan were working hard to get through the Richmond defence but found Julie Poland and Megan Ring hard to get by while keeper Sarah Donoghue dealt with everything that came her way. Amy O’Lehan was at her usual best for Riverstown, constantly moving onto loose ball, tackling and dribbling through tackle after tackle but today she was to find no reward despite all her hard work.
Richmond attacking force of Jennifer Greeley, Aine O'Brien and Mary Holmes worked hard together but also found the Riverstown defence too hard to crack with Ciara Tobin, Aoife O'Sullivan power houses in the centre, ably assisted by Sarah Tyner and Roisin O'Donovan and Jenna Stacey excellent in goal and using her kick outs to maximum effect.
The midfield battle was a joy to watch with sisters Jessie and Kelly Lyons, Ashling O'Brien working hard for Riverstown and equal to the task on the Richmond side was Judy Murphy and Siobhan O'Regan.
Both sides sportingly used all their substitues and all contributed to this excellent tie in which neither side deserved to lose.
UNDER 14 PREMIER
WILTON UNITED : 7
DOUGLAS HALL : 0
After Wilton's last game which ended in a 6 - 6 draw, points were valuable in this game. The match started at a slow pace with both sides testing the other's defence. Wilton did have the advantage of an extra player as Douglas had only 10 players starting and indeed finished with only 9 through injury during the game.
Wilton opened the scoring after 15 minutes with a well worked goal from former Buttevant star, Carys Johnson and minutes later Amy O'Connor added a second. Wilton were in control of the game now and after good work from Johnson, Shannon Carson and O'Connor, they won a free kick just outside the box. The resulting kick from Johnson found the top right corner of the net giving Douglas keeper, Chelsea Noonan no chance.
In the second half Douglas fought back with good play from Claire Shine but they had no answer to the Wilton onslaught that produced more goals from Johnson, Abby Oakes, Emma Madigan and Ciara O'Connell.
Outstanding for Douglas were Chelsea Noonan, Claire Shine, Emma Barber, Alison Bourke and Rachel McCarthy while key players for Wilton were Shannon Carson in midfield and Ciara McNamara in the centre of defence.
Report from John McNamara
UNDER 14 PREMIER
LAKEWOOD ATHLETIC :1
COLLEGE CORINTHIANS: 4
A depleted Lakewood side battled hard to try and contain a very strong Corinthians side in an entertaining game at Ovens. Megan Connolly opened the scoring after 5 minutes and Laura O'Brien headed home after 30 minutes to lead 2 nil at the interval. Lakewood had their chances too, Meg Fitzgerald and Ciara Nevin going close before the break. Lakewood reduced the deficit 15 minutes into the 2nd half when Sarah Geaney's shot nestled in the bottom corner after a great run. Connolly scored her 2nd and Corinthians 3rd seven minutes from time to put the game out of Lakewood's reach. Isobel Geaney got the 4th goal in the last minute. Best for Lakewood: Niamh O'Leary; Ciara Nevin and Ali Brady. Best for Corinthians: Michelle O'Regan; Taylor Webster, Katelyn Hickey, Michelle Murphy and Kate Fitzpatrick.
Report by Ger Cahill - Lakewood Athletic
UNDER 16 DIVISION 1
ST. MARYS : 2
PASSAGE: 4
On a lovely sunny afternoon at Kilcully, this was definitely the proverbial game of two halves. The first half truly belonged to Passage who seemed to carve open St. Marys at will, scoring 4 goals before half-time (the first from Tara Murphy, two from Vicki Hannah and a fourth from Shauna Kind). St. Marys had no answer for Passage and half-time could not come quick enough.
After the break, St. Marys upped the tempo and went back to 4-4-2 as opposed to the first half's 4-5-1.This had an instant result with Emma Sheehan latching on to a loose back pass and finished well. That piece of luck seemed to help as St. Marys fought hard to press on and were duly rewarded when Courtney O'Keeffe crossed a ball from the right into a a crowded 6 yard area. The ball broke loose and Jennifer O'Sullivan was on hand to score. With ten minutes to go Marys tried and tried again to get a third but Passage had regrouped and stood strong.
Three key players for Passage were Tia McMahon, Lauren Hickey and Leann Murray and for St. Marys were Ciara Sexton, Shauna O'Keeffe and keeper Ciara Condon.
Well done to both sides for an excellent game.
Report by John McNamara - P.R.O. St. Marys
UNDER 16 PREMIER
YOUGHAL UNITED: 1
BALLINHASSIG: 2
Ballinhassig travelled to Youghal as favourites to take the points in this game. However it was the Youghal girls that started the better, and following a ball sent in to the Ballinhassig area it was Ann McCarthy who got her head to the ball and found the net to give Youghal the lead with 13 minutes left in the first half. Both defences had to work hard as this game was going from end to end, Katie Manning in the Youghal defence, on her first game at Under 16 level, played a fine first half. Youghal continued to hold on to their slender lead and went in at half time one up.
Ballinhassig came out in the second half and were determined to push Youghal to the limit, and brought a fine save out of the Youghal keeper, Sarah Louise Flaherty, with a shot that had goal written all over it.
With four minutes left it looked like the Youghal girls had done enough to hold on for their first win, however Ballinhassig kept playing football and were rewarded when Ciara O’Leary picked up a great pass on the edge of the Youghal area and rode a strong challenge to get into the Youghal box where she weaved passed the Youghal defence to set herself up and shoot into the far corner and level the game. Following the kick off the Youghal girls to their credit pushed forward to try to get the lead back but two minutes later when the Ballinhassig girls won the ball inside their own half they played the ball quickly through the midfield with some lovely passing and Aisling O’Brien made no mistake and finished with a strong shot to the Youghal net to snatch a win with one minute left in the game. Excellent for Ballinhassig were Miriam O’Riordan, Emma O’Donovan, Claire Christopher and Jane O’Leary, While excellent for Youghal were Kirsty Mason, Biane Roche, Katie Manning and in goal Sarah Louise Flaherty. A very entertaining game and a credit to both teams.
Report by Richard Sheehan - Youghal United
UNDER 12 DIVISION 2
YOUGHAL UNITED: O
ST. MARYS: 1
St.Mary’s travelled to Youghal for this fixture that had been scheduled to be played at St.Mary’s Park, Kilcully but by mutual agreement the fixture was reversed and played in Youghal.
The game kicked off at 11.30 in bright sunshine on a perfect day for football. From the start this game was a tough tight affair, with the St.Mary’s defence proving too strong for the Youghal girls and limiting Youghal’s top scorer Holly Twomey to very few chances on goal. St.Mary’s scored what was to prove the winning goal when Orláith O’Leary got on to the ball just inside the Youghal box and picked her spot and finished with a beautiful strike to take the lead and win the game for St.Mary’s.
The players that stood out for St.Mary’s were Emma Price, Niamh Ryan and Aisling McKenzie while for Youghal were Holly Twomey, Sarah Roche and Lizzie Perry.
Report by Richard Sheehan - Youghal United
WFAI MUNSTER JUNIOR CUP
TRAMORE AFC: 0
RIVERSTOWN FC: 1 after extra time
There surely won't be too many better games played at picturesque Ardrath Park in Youghal than this exciting Munster Junior Cup final.
Tramore came into this game as favourites due to the scalps they took on the way while Riverstown were in unchartered waters, a first Provincial final for them.
Both sides started nervously and the match swung to and fro for the first 15 minutes. Tramore expected a lot from their international centre midfielder Lynn Marie Grant, and it was obvious from an early stage why she is so highly rated but she probably never came across a more able opponent in domestic football than Michelle Hourihan from Riverstown and this battle was the highlight all day with the Riverstown player shading the challenge as the game came to it's conclusion.
Tramore did look the more dangerous side in the first half with Rachel Wall and Eileen Guiry causing a few problems but the Riverstown back four of Megan Spillane and Catherine Halpin in the centre and Emma Coughlan and captain Jenny White at full back, were more than able for anything that came their way. Amanda Daly was doing a great holding role for Riverstown at centre mid and despite not getting too many chances, Laura Mullins and Laura Davis were working their socks off up front.
With the game scoreless at the break, a lot of neutrals expected Tramore to forge on in the second half but Riverstown had other ideas and they certainly stepped up their game. Louise O'Dowd and Ann Marie O'Callaghan were now getting more on the ball on the wings which meant that the front two were getting service and this put Tramore on the back foot a lot more.
But chances were hard to come by from both sides and the keepers dealt with anything that came their way, with Imelda Kelly in the Riverstown goal the busier of the two but her handling was magnificent and certainly instilled confidence into the rearguard.. Riverstown sent on Avril Fahy and Emer Feerick and their fresh legs made a huge difference as Tramore were visibly tiring.
So it finished 0 - 0 and on to extra time. Riverstown certainly seemed more relaxed in this period and as a result were playing the better football. Laura Davis and Megan Spillane both went close, with a Spillane header coming off the the crossbar.
Catherine Power and Rebecca Looney were still solid at the centre of the Tramore defence as Riverstown pushed on but then with 3 minutes remaining in the game, a Megan Spillane free kick was expertly met by the head of Laura Mullins and the ball nestled in the right corner of the net. It was frantic stuff for the last 3 minutes as Tramore pushed on but the Riverstown defence were excellent and held out for an historic victory. Captain Jennifer White accepted the Cup for the winners and she paid tribute to the effort that her team put in all year. She also thanked the Management team of Peter Mullins and Eamon Breen for all their hard work and sacrafice during the year. The celebrations continued back to Glanmire...........and further afield.
UNDER 16 PREMIER
LAKEWOOD ATHLETIC: 4
CROSSHAVEN: 0
Lakewood won this U16 game against a very strong and determined Crosshaven side in beautiful autumn sunshine at Ovens. Both sides had chances early on and Lakewood got the breakthrough after 15 mins when Kelly Sugrue's powerful run through the Crosshaven defense and cool finish opened the scoring. Aoife Barrett doubled the score 10 mins later with a low left foot drive past Emily Phelan in the Crosshaven goal. Niamh Buckley had to be alert in the Lakewood goal as Crossshaven fought hard to reduce the deficit with efforts from Megan O'Keeffe and Laragh Fitzgerald.
In the second half Kelly Sugrue made three when she was played through by Rebecca Kearney, only to loose her footing in front of goal, but regained her composure to slot home before the Crosshaven defense could recover. Rebecca Kearney made it four nil after a neat one two with Taylor Kruschel with ten mins remaining. Best for Lakewood: Emer Murphy; Niamh O'Shea and Alanna Murphy. Best for Crosshaven: Emily Phelan; Gillian Crowley and Laragh Fitzgerald.
Report from Ger Cahill - Lakewood
UNDER 12 PREMIER
LAKEWOOD ATHLETIC: 2
COLLEGE CORINTHIANS: 1
Lakewood Athletic went to the top of the Premier League with a hard fought win over nearest rivals College Corinthians. Both teams started brightly and Lakewood got the breakthrough after 15 minutes when Ciara Nevin's cross was laid back by Evelyn Daly for Lydia Looney to score from 10 yards. Sheila Kearney prevented Looney from doubling her tally when she saved well from close range. At the other end Emma Geaney made a great save from Ciara Hartnett and then with 5 mins remaining in the first half Looney struck again to make it 2 nil at half time to the home side. Corinthians came out with all guns firing in the 2nd half and got one goal back after 2 mins through Hayley McCarthy. This set the game up nicely and both teams had chances at both ends to increase the score but both Kearney and Geaney in either goal stood firm and Lakewood held on for an excellent win. Best for Lakewood were Tara Lynch, Annmarie Ryan and Leighann O'Shea. Best for Corinthians were Kim O'Neill, Ciara Hartnett and Megan Dennehy.
Report from Ger Cahill - Lakewood
UNDER 12 DIVISION 2
AVONDALE UNITED: 2
RIVERSTOWN FC: 3
This was a fabulous game where neither side deserved to lose. After a tentative start, with both sides probing the defenses, Riverstown were the first team to settle into the game. The game really exploded into life when Riverstown striker, Ciara O’Sullivanhit the crossbar with a 20 yard drive. Amazingly, this was followed minutes later when Amy O’Lehan hit the bar again with a long range effort. In the first quarter Riverstown had the best of the early exchanges but a well organized and hard working Avondale defence kept matters level until O’Lehan was rewarded with a smashing goal following a dizzying run through the heart of the Avondale defense. Jennifer Byrne, Riverstown's right back was superb as she broke up wave after wave of Avondale pressure, while Aoife O’Sullivan, Riverstown centre back did a brilliant job organizing her defense.
Twins, Kelly and Jessie Lyons worked tirelessly in midfield and it seemed they never stopped running, winning their own ball, setting up attacks and defending like…. well lions. Half time saw Riverstown ahead by the bare minimum.
Riverstown manager, Aine McClatchy, made some astute substitutions at half time. The introduction of Aoife O’Brien brought renewed vigour to mid field but Avondale remained determined and drew level in the opening minutes of the second half. Immediately from the restart, the energetic and graceful Ciara O’Sullivan pounced on a loose ball and drove an unstoppable shot to the bottom corner to restore Riverstown’s lead. The game ebbed and flowed as spectators held their breath. Parity was restored when a fine run by the Avondale striker was rewarded with a stunning shot to the top corner. With time running out Riverstown pressed for the winner. Another set of twins, Aishling and Sinead O’Brien now playing at midfield were fantastic while Saoirse McClatchy in defense was rock solid. With minutes remaining Ciara O’Sullivan, who we could barely believe as still running, latched onto a great cross from the peerless O’Lehan, and finished into the top corner to give Riverstown their first win of the season.
Report from John Gilroy - Riverstown
UNDER 18 LEAGUE
CARRIGALINE UNITED: 0
WILTON UNITED: 3
What was to be an interesting game between Carrigaline and Wilton was spoilt for us by a poor ref. The girls put him behind them and got on with a tough game. Wilton got their first goal midway through the first half from a free outside the box. Carrigaline fought well, having a number of chances but could not score. Half way into the second half Wilton got the second from a corner and the third was a og from a clearance that took a wicked bounce over the keeper. Carrigaline players that had good games were keeper Kirsty Barrett, LeahHealy, Lorna Calanan, Christina Harvey, Elaine & Maeve Cole both who had to move to the back line to cover for injured players. The goal scorers for Wilton were Natalie O'Brien and Laura Lynch and the og.
Report by Jack Cole
Carrigaline United
UNDER 14 PREMIER
COLLEGE CORINTHIANS: 6
WILTON UNITED: 6
Corinthians Schoolgirls welcomed Wilton United to Castletreasure on a wet Saturday afternoon for this top of the table clash.
This was a 12 goal thriller from the 1st goal in the 8th min to the equalizer in the last min.
These two teams put on a show that had it all - Passion, Stubbornness, Speed, Skill - with a bit of physical presence thrown in. It was neck and neck all the way with only a couple of fouls (not intentional). The majority of these girls are friends, some best friends, but when the whistle went to start there was no quarter asked and none given.
Admittedly 2 or 3 goals on each side were very soft, but don’t let that take away from a pulsating game from start to finish.
It would be unfair to each team to name just two or three that stood out, ALL the players on that pitch gave it their all.
To the neutral it must have been like Match of the Day, to the Managers and Coaches it was heart stopping stuff. To name the scorers would be an injustice to the outstanding play from both sides leading up to the scores from Keepers through Defence through Mid-field to Forwards to Net.
Credit to the Referee who allowed the game to flow without many stoppages.
This game was testament to the reason why Cork Schoolgirl Soccer is alive, Strong and knocking on the door nationally and internationally. Well done to both teams
Girl of the Match award goes too All Players from both sides.
Its turning out that this could be an interesting season!
Willie Fitzpatrick
Manager - Corinthians
UNDER 14 PREMIER
DOUGLAS HALL: 5
CROSSHAVEN: 0
Douglas Hall played Crosshaven Under14's on Saturday. Claire Shine opened the scoring for Douglas Hall in the first half. Jess Horgan got the second and this was followed soon after by Claire Shine's second of the day. Crosshaven came out much stronger in the in the second half. The team worked hard to make chances and were unlucky not to score. Some fine saves from the Crosshaven 'keeper denied Douglas Hall on a number of occasions. Aisling Fox and Alison Burke scored for Douglas Hall in the second half leaving the score line 5 - 0 at the final whistle
Report from Collette Dunne
Douglas Hall.
UNDER 12 DIVISION 2
ST. MARYS: 2
RIVERSTOWN FC: 2
In glorious sunshine both teams entered the cauldron known as "Division 2". The game was played in great spirits from start to finish - our thanks to both sides and parents and staff for making it easy for a new referee's first match.
Inside the first few minutes, a great strike by Riverstown's Jessica Mehmet put them one ahead but St. Marys settled into the game and Emma Price drove a wonderful strike beyond Riverstown's keeper Sophie O'Leary, who also had a great game. This brought the teams to one apiece.
The tension rose along with the temperature then after a lot of pressure on the Marys defence, Amy Lehane struck the ball which whizzed past Mary's keeper and captain Niamh Ryan to bring Riverstown's tally to two.
For the next 15 minutes the game went to and fro but with 5 minutes remaining, Marys picked up a loose ball and drove on towards the Riverstown goal where Genna Stacey was on duty for the second half. The defence held strong but then Caitlin O'Sullivan picked the ball up on the edge of the box and managed to get off a strike to bring Mary's level at 2 - 2.
The last few minutes hearts were in mouths but mostly mine and that of opposite manager John Gilroy.
Great credit is due to both sides as some of these girls have never played football before, and it was such a hot day and playing on a full size pitch with full sized goals - we sometimes forget how much a small 10 year old keeper or player has to overcome when compared to Munster Senior League players playing on the same terms!
Both teams did brilliantly.
Report by John McNamara - St. Marys AFC
UNDER 12 DIVISION 1
KINSALE: 7
GLOUNTHAUNE UNITED: 3
The sun shone at Madden Park, Charles Fort for the U12 girls first game of the season. A new look Kinsale team took to the field as some of last years girls have moved up to U14's. Within minutes of the start and just as Kinsale's new back four were getting to know one another Glounthaune won a free from a handball on the edge of the area which was duly dispatched high into the net by Nicole Cashman. This was not the start Kinsale were looking for but soon got themselves back in the game with an equaliser from Maedbh O'Leary. Glounthaune's Nicole Cashman was giving Kinsale all kinds of problems down the left wing and it wasn't long before she crossed the ball into to her team mate Jill Sexton to make it 2-1. Although Kinsale continued to have most of the possession and goal scoring opportunities not to mention some great ball handling and saves made by Glounthaune's keeper Jill Healy it was Glouthaune who struck again, a fine shot was blocked by keeper Sarah Black but it was Glounthaune's Jill Sexton who was quickest to react and tapped the ball in to make it 3-1.
The second half started with a great run down the left wing by substitute and Kinsale's new girl Clare Tyner who finished with a terrific shot into the back of the net. It wasn't long before all the missed opportunities in the first half were quickly forgotten as 5 more goals were to follow. Clare went on to score a hat trick while Emma O'Brien who had worked hard in midfield threw herself at a cross from Ellen Murphy which fortuitiously hit her shoulder and shot straight past the keeper. Saedbh O'Leary ( sub Aedean O'Leary) another girl making her debut scored a great individual goal dribbling past Glounthaune's defence and striking the ball low into the corner. Captain Ellen Murphy (sub Sophie Edwards) who had worked tirelessly on the right wing, sending in crosses all afternoon also got a well deserved goal.
Kinsale's back four made up of centre backs Makalea Cooney, Sarah Howe and left back Scarly McGahan, (sub Eva Clayton) with right back Ciara Forde (sub Emily McCarthy ) let almost nothing past them all second half and with fine displays from Saoirse Crowley on the left wing and Ciara O'Brien in the centre of midfield Kinsale look forward to their next match away to Midleton on Sept 26.
UNDER 14 DIVISION 1
KINSALE: 5
KILLINARDRISH: 1
KINSALE GIRLS U14 GOT OFF TO A GREAT START OF THE SEASON WITH A VICTORY OVER KILLINARDRISH.
THIS FIRST GAME OF THE SEASON CLASH BETWEEN KINSALE AND NEWCOMERS KILLINARDRISH WAS PLAYED AT MADDEN PARK ON A SUPERB PLAYING SURFACE. BOTH TEAMS WERE NERVOUS FOR THE FIRST FIFTEEN MINUTES BUT PLAYED SOME GREAT FOOTBALL.
KINSALE TOOK THE LEAD AFTER TWENTY MINUTES WITH A GREAT STRIKE FROM MAEDHBH O LEARY AND WELL DESERVED THEIR LEAD.
KILLINARDRISH, HOWEVER, DID NOT LET THE SETBACK UPSET THEIR GAME AND WITHIN MINUTES DREW LEVEL WITH A WELL TAKEN GOAL BY REBECCA KELLIHER.BOTH TEAMS WERE NOW PLAYING GREAT STUFF AND CREATED PLENTY OF CHANCES.
JUST BEFORE HALF TIME KINSALE WERE AWARDED A PENALTY FOR HAND BALL. MARIE GREENE STEPPED UP AND TOOK A GOOD PENALTY AND WAS ONLY DENIDED BY A GREAT SAVE FROM THE KILLINARDRISH GOALKEEPER, LEAH BUCKLEY. BUT MARIE POUNCED ON THE REBOUND TO PUT IT AWAY FOR A 2-1 LEAD AT HALF TIME.
THE SECOND HALF BEGAN AT A GREAT PACE AND KINSALE WERE STARTING TO GET CONTROL OF THE GAME.THE KINSALE DEFENCE WAS SOLID WITH GREAT PERFORMANCES BY HAYLEY KIELY, SARAH WALSH AND TORI GIMBLETT. THE MIDFIELD BATTLE WAS WON BY KINSALE GIRLS MARIE GREEN AND GEORGINA BUCKLEYWHILE ELLEN MURPHYON THE WING WAS PLAYING A BLINDER.
KINSALE SOON ADDED ANOTHER GOAL FROM MARIE GREENE AND FIVE MINUTES LATER SCORED HER HAT TRICK WITH A WELL TAKEN GOAL.
KINSALE WERE NOW WELL IN COMMAND WITH LEAH O SULLIVAN IN SPARKLING FORM AT CENTRE FORWARD BUT KILLINARDRISH TO THEIR CREDIT BATTLED HARD AND WERE UNLUCKY ON A FEW OCCASIONS NOT TO SCORE. KINSALE FINALLY PUT THE GAME WELL OUT OF REACH WITH A FIFTH GOAL SCORED BY TARA HEGARTY ON THE HOUR MARK..
THE FINAL TEN MINUTES SAW KINSALE CAMPED IN THE KILLINARDRISH AREA BUT A RESOLUTE DEFENCE KEPT THEM FROM ADDING TO THE SCORE.
ALL IN ALL A VERY ENJOYABLE GAME PLAYED WITH THE RIGHT ATTITUDE BY BOTH TEAMS. KILLINARDRISH WERE UNLUCKY TO HAVE MET A KINSALE TEAM IN FLYING FORM FOR THEIR DEBUT IN THE LEAGUE, THEY WILL, I AM SURE LEARN FROM IT AND IMPROVE AS THE LEAGUE PROGRESSES.
WE WISH THEM THE VERY BEST IN THE LEAGUE AND HOPE THEY ENJOY THE EXPERIENCE AS MUCH AS OUR GIRLS DID IN THEIR DEBUT SEASON LAST YEAR.
Report by Jack Walsh - Kinsale AFC
WFAI Intermediate Cup Semi-Final
LAKEWOOD RANGERS: 2
COBH RAMBLERS: 1
Ramblers Intermediate Cup run came to an end last Sunday in Ovens when they lost 2 - 1 to Lakewood Rangers. This was always going to a difficult for the Cobh side against League leaders Lakewood but the contrast in styles of play made for a very interesting game. Lakewood with their passing game and Ramblers with their physical no nonsense style. The game started off all Lakewood and within the first 5 mins they had forced 4 corners and as a result Mary McDonnell made a fantastic goal line clearance and another came off the upright. After this early burst from Lakewood, Ramblers started to settle into the game, However after 23 mins a long range effort from Lakewood was parried by Cobh goalkeeper Linda McNamara and Lakewood's forward Eimear Knightly was the first to react and drill the ball home. But as seen on many occasions the Ramblers side had plenty of pride and spirit and they rose to the challenge. In its 37th minute, good link up play between Sinead O'Brien and Chloe Smith allowed striker Elaine Feen in to score from a very acute angle. However with a minute to halftime a harmless looking effort from Lakewood's Amy McCarthy deceived Ramblers keeper and sneaked into the far corner to give Lakewood the lead at half time.
A tremendous battling second half by Ramblers led by captain Jamie Harrington was not enough as they could not break down Lakewood's defence. Orianne Mc Grath had a shot well saved by the Lakewood keeper. In the last minute of the game a Ciara Duffy corner was brilliantly met by a diving Sinead O'Brien but unfortunately her very brave effort went over the bar. With the final whistle gone a disappointed but proud Ramblers side wished Lakewood the very best of luck in the final in Donegal.
Report by Liam Amphlett
Kevin Barry Cup - Semi Final
CROSSHAVEN: 4
WATERGRASSHILL UNITED: 1
Crosshaven played the semi-final of the Kevin Barry Cup in Camden last Monday night.
Crosshaven had most of the possession the first half and failed to capitalize on their early chances and were unlucky when Watergrasshill scored after a great save from Shannon Daems was tapped in by the Watergrasshill full forward. However, just on the stroke of half time Crossers’ effort paid off and they scored from a corner kick which was headed on by Fiona Canty and finished by Majella McCarthy to level the game.
In the second half both teams battled hard and Crosshaven took the lead with a free kick from Trish Harrington which was met by the in form Julieanne Kingston and blasted into the back of the net. Crosshaven were well on top at this stage, and they continued to apply the pressure. Another Kingston goal and an excellent goal from Michelle O’Connell sent the 2nd Division side through to the cup final to be held at Turners Cross against Ballinhassig. Crosshaven’s team performance was again evident and great determination was again shown by all, with Shannon Daems having yet another exceptional performance in goal.
This is a great achievement for all the girls together with their mangers in their maiden season.
WFAI Intermediate Cup 1/4 Final
COBH RAMBLERS: 2
CARNDONAGH: 0
Ramblers secured a place in the semi-final of the FAI Intermediate Cup with a 2 - 0 victory over Carndonagh of Donegal at St Colmans Park. Ramblers started the brighter of the two sides and found their midweek League game against Wilton had really helped them prepare for this game. After just four minutes Ramblers found themselves one nil up when the Carndonagh keeper was unable to hold onto a shot from Ramblers Chloe Smith and Elaine Feen was on hand to volley home the rebound from ten yards. Tens mins later things could not get better for Ramblers when a crossfield ball found right midfielder Orianne McGrath in plenty of space and she cleverly placed the ball beyound the keepers reach. Carndonagh finally started to come into the game playing some brilliant football and constantly switching the ball from left to right. They had some clever play from Irish International Zoe Doherty but it was not enough for the Donegal side to break down a very resolute Ramblers defence. The game continued to be a very close affair from here on in with both sides playing end to end football and both sides coming close on a number of occassions. Ramblers could have made it 3 nil a few minutes from the end with a great shot from Ciara Duffy headed off the line by the Donegal sides full back and so it ended 2 nil to the Cobh side.
Ramblers Captain Jamie Harrington had this to say after the game, "I'm delighted with the teams performance today, everyone on the pitch really wanted it and in all fairness to Carndonagh they gave us an excellent game today and kept sending attack after attack at us but we absorbed their pressure really well and broke really well when we got the chances, the early goals settled us and really helped us get into the game, we made the semi's two years ago and were delighted to be their again but we know as a team we'll have to work really hard from now on if were to try make the final."
Cobh's fitness coach Peter Rowe also gave his view on the game, "It was a very close game today we got our two goals early on in the game and this helped us settle but in all fairness to the young Donegal side they never gave and the game really was a very tight affair with some end to end football throughout, i think our experience showed in the end and we absorbed their attacks very well throughout the game. We're delighted once again to be in the semi's, We know now whether we get a home or away draw were gonna have a tough game in the next draw as all the teams left will be good and this is where we'll have to pick ourselves up and put in the work if we want to do one better than two years ago when we lost out to eventually winners Kiltimagh Knock in the semi's."
Ramblers and Carndonagh captains with match officials before their 1/4 final clash at St. Colmans Park
WFAI Intermediate Cup 1/4 Final
LAKEWOOD RANGERS: 3
BENFICA: 2
Lakewood Rangers advanced to the Semi Final of the Intermediate National Cup, coming from two goals down with 30 minutes to play, against a very determined Benfica team. Rangers had the 1st opportunity of the game in the 5th minute, when Sinead Kelly was put through on goal by Eimear Knightly, only to shoot wide when Clodagh McGrath, the Benfica keeper, was fast off her line to narrow the angle. In the 10th minute Benfica came close to opening the scoring when Keeley Claydon's 30 yard strike went wide off the crossbar. Lakewood continued to create chances, Knightly had two good efforts which were saved by McGrath in the Benfica and Cathrese Fahy headed over from an Amy McCarthy corner. Benfica weren't lying down and in the 26h minute Martina Cashin advanced into the Lakewood half and played a neat one two with Claydon before seeing her effort come back off the crossbar. This was a warning to Rangers and Benfica opened the scoring in the 40th minute when Therese Leahy made a great run into the Lakewood box and saw her effort saved by Georgina McKeon in the Lakewood goal but Keeley Claydon pounced on the loose ball to score from 10 yards.
Lakewood were shocked by this setback but started the second half by hitting the crossbar twice in the 1st minute with efforts from Mairead Kelly and Amy McCarthy. They continued to press forward and had shots from Lydia McCarthy, Eimear Knightly and Olivia Lyons saved by McGrath in the Benfica goal. Benifica went further ahead in the 53rd minute, Keeley Claydon picked up a poor defensive clearance and powered a low drive past McKeon. Lakewood had to dig deep and got the breakthrough in the 63rd minute when Yvonne Cahill played a through ball to Knightley who's knockdown was met perfectly by Sinead Kelly, who curled a sweet shot low into the net. Lakewood were level two minutes later when an Amy McCarthy corner found its way into the Benfica net. The momentum was now with Lakewood and they continued to press forward and their efforts were rewarded in the 78th minute when Olivia Lyons picked up a Cahill pass and strode forward and struck an excellent shot to the corner of the net. Benfica tried hard to come back but Lakewood finished the stonger and held out to advance to the Semi Finals. Best for Lakewood were Gillian Cahill, Aoife Kelliher and Sinead Kelly. Best for Benfica were Claire Collins, Keeley Claydon and Stephanie Hallahan
Panel: Lakewood Rangers: Georgina McKeon; Gillian Cahill; Aoife Kelliher; Cathrese Fahey ( capt. ); Amy McCarthy; Valerie Leahy; Mairead Kelly; Yvonne Cahill; Lydia McCarthy; Sinead Kelly; Eimear Knightly; Michelle McNally; Olivia Lyons; Kelly Sugrue; Caroline Mitchell; Louise Barrett; Emma Martin; Niamh Foley.
Panel: Benfica: Clodagh McGrath; Audrey Maher; Martina Cashin; Roisin Jordan; Melissa Crowley; Claire Collins; Ilona O'Dowd; Stephanie Hallahan; Linda Douglas;
Keeley Claydon; Theresa Leahy; Thrasa Doorly; Sarah Wall.
Umbro Cup
The Cork Womens & Schoolgirls Under 17 Team acquitted themselves very well in the Umbro Galway Cup which took place in the excellent facilities of SaltHill Devon F.C. The Cork girls played Northern Ireland's Under17's in their first game on Thursday and went down by one goal to nil. Their 2nd game was against Beanlnamulla from Athlone and won 3-1 after been 1 down at half time. Goals from Denise O'Sullivan, Yvonne Cahill and Rebecca Kearney secured the win. This meant a win against hosts, SaltHill Devon on Friday evening was paramount if they were to progress. Both teams were evenly matched and the Cork girls just about shaded a goalless first half. The Cork girls continued to push forward in the 2nd half and got the all important goal when Natalie O'Brien struck an excellent free kick which crashed against the angle of post and crossbar before bouncing over the line with the help of Rebecca Kearney. This result meant a draw in their final game, against Colga, on Saturday morning would see the Cork girls progress. Colga were understrength and Cork won 8 - 0 with goals from, Kate Sheehan (4), Amy Lee Quinn (2), Stephanie Shanahan and Stephanie Murphy. This meant Cork had a rematch with Northern Ireland in this years final.
The Final lived up to everyones expectations and Cork were unlucky not to open the scoring when a neat one two between Denise O'Sullivan and Rebecca Kearney resulted in Kearney's shot been saved by the Northern Ireland keeper. Northern Ireland took the lead against the run of play in the 12th minute when Kenda McMullen pounced on a defensive error and fired a great shot to the Cork net. The Cork girls responed well and Kearney levelled the game when she was put through by Yvonne Cahill. The game was ebbing and flowing from end to end and Cork were denied twice by the crossbar. First Cahill struck a volley against the bar and 5 mins later Kearney's effort also came back off the bar. Northern Ireland went 2-1 up in the final minute of the 1st half when Cork's defence failed to clear a corner kick. This was a blow to the Cork girls and they pushed forward for the equaliser early in the 2nd half but were caught on the break and went 3-1 down after 10 mins. But the Cork girls didn't lie down and got one back with 10 minutes remaining when Yvonne Cahill crashed a 25 yard free to the roof of the net. Unfortunately time ran out for the Cork girls and Northern Ireland won the Cup on a scoreline of 3 - 2.
Panel: Georgina McKeon; Orla Barry; Natalie O'Brien; Emma Farmer; Cliona Barrett; Kelly Sugrue; Stephanie Murphy; Yvonne Cahill; Amy Wilson; Denise O'Sullivan; Rebecca Kearney; Kate Sheehan; Lauren Murphy; Kellie Tobin; Stephanie Hodnett; Stephanie Shanahan; Kirsty Mason; Aishling Coleman; Amy-Lee Quinn; Wendy Cahill.
Manager: Michael Collins: Coach: Dave Bell: Physio; Ciara Meehan: Administrator; Ber Cahill
