Castleknock Celtic  2  Mount Merrion  0

Girls Under-12s Cup

Semi-Final

26th May 2010

"FABULOUS RESULT FROM A FAB TEAM"

This was an amazing performance by Celtic's belles.  They had 2 tough games earlier in the season against Mt Merrion, so nobody was under any illusions that it was going to be a significant ask to make it through to the final.  But the management team of Brian O'Donovan and Tony Hanlon had them well drilled.  They were highly motivated and focused, and blessed with bags of skill.  These attributes were a combination that could not fail, and so it proved.

Celtic spent the game, from start to finish, closing down their opponents.  They were tigerish in the tackle, and displayed great skill in distributing the ball, always a sign of a well-coached team.

They were quickly out of the blocks, and within 3 mins, they were in front when Laura Page was on hand to strike home from close range.  Laura was ably supported up front by player of the match, Katherine Leahy.  Also up front were Ellie Wilde, Fiona Fitzgerald and Haley Dixon, all playing their part in putting pressure on the Merrion defence.  The great attacking flair of Celtic got its reward with a second goal on 15 mins, when Laura Page struck her second goal, which the ref deemed to have crossed the line.  The reaction of the Merrion players told you that it was a goal, which is evident in the photos of the goal where they all have their hands on their heads in resignation.  2-0 at half time.            

Celtic's midfield showed great tenacity and skill.  Dearbhla Monaghan and Emma Boyle were the anchors in the middle of the park.  Emma had in previous seasons been a leading light on Celtic's U-10s and U-11s teams, before moving over to the girls league.   Aoibheann Lynch patrolled the left side of the middle third of the park, while Ciara Brady put in a 100 per cent performance on the right side.  At the back, Kellie Boyle was magnificent, and the word 'ubiquitous' is very appropriate to describe her performance, with great defending and always willing to support the attacks.  She is also renowned for her Rory deLap throw-ins.  This campaign has been a team effort, with all squad members being very important to its success.  Niamh O'Donovan, Rebecca Stephens, Leah Byrne, Holly Larkin, and Sarah Brady who is recovering from a broken leg, all playing their important roles. 

We are confident that this group of gals can do the biz on Saturday 11am against WFTA in the Final. Best of luck to you all, including Brian and Tony, the management team.