Castleknock Celtic 6    Rivervalley Rgrs  0

Under 11 Premier

22 April 07 

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Celtic's 11 Premier maintained their relentless pursuit of silverware in all the North Dublin League competitions with this resounding win over a plucky Rivervalley who were intent on not making things easy for the triple- contenders, as well as being the League's representatives in the Danone Cup in May.

It was well into the game before Celtic made the breakthrough, and there were a few worries on their touchline at the delay in getting the first goal. But when it came, it began a golden spell for the bustling centre-forward, Ryan Kearney Moore.  On 20 mins, he broke free of the heavy Rivervalley defence, raced forward, rounded the keeper, and slotted home.  He repeated the trick a few minutes later, when he made it 2-0.  And before the half time break, he raced through the inside right channel, and sent a perfect delivery to the top corner of the net.  It looked the perfect finish, but his honesty was an example to us all, as he revealed that it was meant to be a cross.  3-0 to Celtic at half time.

The second half saw Celtic pick up where they had left off before the break.  They were totally in control, and 10 mins after the resumption, Gavin Boyne was too clever for the Rivervalley defences. He picked up the ball in the middle of the park, and racing through, he lofted the ball over the impressive 'valley keeper, who had kept the scoreline respectable by save after save, bravery, and excellent positioning.  Meantime at the other end, Richie Delaney had virtually nothing to do.

10 mins from time, the speedster, Keelan McAnerin was on hand to race into the box, following a terrific pass from Daniel Ring on the right hand side.  But Keelan finished off a beautiful move, striking home with aplomb.

Celtic's defence was hardly tested to any serious degree.  Where the 'valley did break forward, the back 4 of Conor Stephenson, Eoin Conran, Davern Reid, and captain Patrick Rocca, who again won everything in the air, were absolutely rock solid.  They could even afford the luxury of Conor taking up a frontman role late in the half, and he conjured up a delightful ball to set up the last goal for Daniel Reid, who took the pass with his usual delightful touch, and chipped the keeper with panache from 18 yards.

Tom Fogarty had worked tirelessly to ensure that the title challenge was intensified.  David Costelloe went oh so close to getting Celtic's first goal, only to see his effort go just wide as he collided with the post.  But he bounced up and got on with it.  Klevis Kurpreka was his usual effervescent self, and made a great contribution to the work of the midfield.  Kyle Turner showed he had lost none of his skill and enthusiasm, as he covered almost every blade of grass when he entered the fray. Meantime, Eoin O'Donnchú made decisive interceptions when Rivervalley looked threatening.  Val Cotorobai enjoyed his contribution after he was introduced, proving that this squad of players has depth.

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