You could feel the nervous excitement before we left Christy Leahy Park at 9.00 am to make the long journey to Naas to play their A team in the National Cup Round of 32. Naas had played 10 games in their league this season and had won all 10 so we knew that we were going to be meeting a very tough opponent. We also know that on our day our u13A’s are a match for anyone, so we were hopeful of a good performance at the very least.
On a pit stop at the Obama Plaza we met with “former” Kerry Footballer and current dancer, Aidan O’Mahony who was kind enough to pose for a photo and also to give the lads some words of encouragement. Watered and fed, we were on our way.
The conditions were just right for good football, the underfoot conditions were perfect with a nice coating of grass, little wind and even some sunshine at times. The game started with the Park getting on the ball early and controlling the tempo of the game from the off. Naas however had some very good players and were challenging strongly for every ball. Even though we had the early possession we were finding it difficult to create any clear cut chances and there were a few occasions that the ball was put in over the top of our defence but Liam and our back four of Samuel, Sean Hill, Kieran and Sean O’Connell dealt with those situations very well.
With so few chances there was a feeling that the first goal was going to be very important. Park having controlled large portions of the first half had nothing to show for it. Naas got a corner and with some big physical players in their ranks there was certainly danger but our defence cleared the ball and not long after, with just 3 minutes left in the half Park won a free on the edge of the box. With the position perfect for a right-foot, Colin hit the ball over the wall and it nestled low in the corner of the net. 0-1 at HT and deserving of it.
The second half followed a similar pattern to the first with the Park playing some really good football but they created a few more chances. Samuel’s header came off the post and David had a good effort just off target. However the second goal just wouldn’t come. As the game entered its final minutes Naas started to throw everything forward but Park stood firm and saw the game out to the final whistle.
This is an excellent result and reward for all the effort the boys have put into training, matches and training games so far this season. The last 16 round brings another tough tie against Mullingar Athletic, this time at home.
Thanks to all the parents for driving and also for the incredible support.
Squad: Liam Carmody, Jack Kearney, Kieran O’Connor, Sean O’Connell, Ben Hanafin, Samuel Aladesanusi, Conor Kerins, Sean O’Connor, David Feely, Danny Jeffers, Cianan Cooney, Messiah Chirwa, Colin Doody, Adam Wharton, Sean Hill .
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Match report by Pat Doody .
