Knocklyon were fancied by most of the pundits since they lead the Major division with St Kevins Boys. Celtic manager Tony Molloy commented however before the game that his kids would “not be found wanting in effort today and were up for the challenge”. He was proved very right.
Celtic started the game well, took it to Knocklyon and were on the front foot from the start, with Gabi Aghinita and Alex French-Mullin winning the midfield battle. They were unlucky not to go in front when Ruairi Paton had a snap shot go just wide. After some good work, Celtic won their third corner. It was taken by Evin Lawlor and centre half Seán McGreevy volleyed the ball home from eight yards out. Celtic were comfortable and saw the game out to half time.
Knocklyon started the second half on the front foot pushing Castleknock back into their own half. Celtic weathered the storm and kept their shape, getting back into the game being awarded a penalty when Seán Brennan was taken down in the box. Unluckily for Castleknock the resulting spot-kick went just over the crossbar. Celtic kept their heads, stuck to their task and came close to adding a second with Jack Bradshaw twice and Ruairi Paton with a great header, but both were unlucky. Castleknock closed the game out to take the spoils in a very entertaining game. It was a famous victory for Tony Molloy’s troops who now face Shelbourne’s Major side in the 4th round. 1-0
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