In what was billed as the match of the day in Porterstown, Celtic took on their illustrious southside opposition, St Josephs of Sallynoggin. Joeys from the Premier Division were firm favourites to progress, but it was Celtic who dominated from start to finish. Never in the game were Celtic under threat of losing this one. Their dominance was built on hard work from each member of the team. They created several chances early on which was rewarded on the half hour when great work by David Beatty on the right hand side led to Aran Mooney getting the first of his hat-trick.
Celtic doubled their advantage with 5 mins remaining in the first half when another passage of good inter-play led to a superb cross by Nicky Kelly on the left hand side. His cross was deftly controlled by David Beatty who finished in style coming in from the right hand side.
The second half was more of the same with Celtic in control. On 55 mins, the game was over as a contest when Eoin Newman, who was industrious throughout, never giving his opponents any time on the ball, crossed perfectly for Aran Mooney to double his tally.
The final half hour saw Celtic create chance after chance, and theinevitable fourth arrived, after fresh legs were introduced, when Kyle Turner threaded through the perfect ball for Aran Mooney to complete his hat-trick when he rifled home from 10 yards.
Manager Brian Kennedy was not surprised by his team’s victory as they have been showing great form in recent times. Their progress has been significant over the past year or so, and they only missed out on promotion by the narrowest of margins. Brian and assistant manager, Vinny Newman, were quick to emphasise the importance of the team’s work ethic which abundantly evident today. That work ethic has been behind their progress to date and the management team are certain that it will ensure that progress is maintained over the months ahead. Brian himself is just back from a visit to the Coventry City Academy in England as he develops his coaching techniques, while forging links with the Championship side.
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