ARCHIVED MATCH REPORTS 2014/15
Boys u12 County Community Games Final
Athenry 2, Cregmore 0,
(Scorer: Liam Kelly x2)
Quality finishing by Liam Kelly in the dying moments of extra time saw the u12's crowned county community games champions! When the game looked like heading to penalties, Liam Kelly nipped around a Cregmore defender for his first of the evening tucking the ball low into the corner of the net. Less than two minutes later, a cross by Gabriel McCann was latched onto again by Liam Kelly who struck a sublime shot to the top corner. Overall, Athenry had the better of the exchanges the defence allowing minimal chances to a lively Cregmore attack. Cian Flannery, Thomas Fleet and Colm Sweeney marshalled the central positions well, with Ben Haverty and Adam Molloy on the wings. In midfield, the two Darraghs did well, Daire Mc Carthy and Darragh Mc Neilis, with the steady Conor Lawless assisting them. The wingers were busy all evening, the two McCanns Gabriel and Hughie, Eoghan Burke, Ivan Power who were ably supported by Sean Rice, Evan McCrossan, it must be said that Cregmore were unlucky on the night, in particular where they had a shot headed off the Athenry line. Next stop the Provincial Community Games July 4/5. Thanks to all the organisers in the Community Games, great evening's football.
KEVIN POWER UNDER 11 FINAL
Eamonn Deacy Park, Galway
Mervue 5 - 1 Athenry
Today, it was not to be! Athenry were comprehensively defeated by a Mervue side in Eamonn Deacy Park (formerly Terryland) today. Three errors in the middle of the first half culminated in three clinical finishes by a well drilled Mervue side, effectively this ended Athenry's interest in the game. Athenry battled admirably, but couldn't make any headway around the Mervue
goal. A goal from a free kick from Daire McCarthy early in thesecond half gave Athenry a glimmer of hope, but the three goal deficit was quickly reinstated some minutes later with a Mervuebreakaway. Best for Athenry in a disappointing day were Eoghan Burke, Daire Mc Carthy and Darragh Gilhooley.
Kevin Power u11 Cup - semi final
Athenry 2, Cregmore/Claregalway 0,
Report 13th May:
Wednesday night saw the meeting of two very talented young under 11 sides in Moanbaun in the Kevin Power Cup. The match lived up to its pre match billing, with chances early on
at either end. The break through came for Athenry before half time for Colm Sweeney when crossing the ball from near the end line who had his shot deflected into the Cregmore net, 1-0 Athenry. While Athenry had the better chances in the opening half, Cregmore to their credit battled away and were unlucky not to have an equaliser just before half time, a good drive to the Athenry goal which just cleared Matthew Feeney's crossbar.
The second half saw Eoin Burke, Adam Molloy and Cian Flannery put in good defensive shifts, with Daire McCarthy and Daire McNeilis holding matters down in midfield. On the wings Finian Coughlan, Daire Gilhooley and Darragh Fahy made the odd foray into Cregmore lines. In the middle of the half Daire McCarthy hit a thunderous free kick off against the crossbar, but in the end it was the one touch wonder Thomas Carr who despatched his first touch after coming on to the Cregmore net. It was a brilliant squad performance, hard earned but well deserved. Cregmore contributed handsomely to this game, with little between the sides, other than the gods favouring Athenry on this occasion with a few breaks.
Connaught Junior Cup - semi final Athenry 4, Corrib Celtic 3,
(Scorers: Cathal Fahy x2, Packie Byrne & Declan Cullen)
Venue: Moanbaun
Report:
Athenry advanced to the final of the Connaught Cup after defeating Corrib Celtic in an enthralling game played in miserable conditions this morning.It was a game that had everything, where both sets of players gave their all for the 90 plus minutes.
Athenry started strongly and had the best of the opening quarter. It was during this time that the first of the seven goals came and what a goal it was. Cathal Fahy received the ball 30 yards from goal and took on the Celtic defence, dribbling past four Celtic players before slotting the ball under the keeper for what was a brilliant opener.
To Corrib Celtic's credit they began to play themselves into the game and get behind the Athenry rear-guard causing trouble. It was on one of these occasions that they drew level. Athenry lost the ball in Celtic's half allowing them to break and play a ball behind the Athenry back four. The centre forward got onto it and scored at the second attempt. Within ten minutes Corrib Celtic had gone in front when a long diagonal ball deceived Anthony Connolly. It was picked up by the Celtic winger who ran in on goal and finished well to leave Athenry trailing 2-1 at the break.
Athenry had lost their early initiative and now had the second 45 to keep their season alive. The second period began with the home side seeing more of the ball without creating any clear cut chances.
That was until Declan Cullen entered the fray and he soon had a hand in the Athenry equaliser. Colm O'Donovan and Cathal Fahy combined to set Declan free down the right hand side; his cross was deflected out for a corner. The resulting corner was met with a superb header from Packie Byrne to level up the game once more. A game full of twists and turns was about to turn in Corrib Celtics favour again as they won a penalty when Andrew Walsh was adjudged to have taken down a Celtic player inside the box. The penalty was well taken giving the Athenry keeper no chance. We were now heading for the last quarter of the game and Athenry made their final substitution bringing on Seamie Crowe for Brian Murphy.
But this was not before the most controversial decision of the day.
Cathal Fahy won the ball down the Athenry right and despite being taken out by a cynical foul played in Declan Cullen who was then taken down in the box. A penalty was awarded but the referees assistant on the far side intervened and decided Declan took a dive. The ref reversed his decision and booked Declan. This in sensed Athenry and drove them on in those crucial last ten minutes.
With Seamie now pulling the strings Athenry drew level again when he played a ball to Alan Harty whose first time pass sent Colm O'Donovan away down the left and his low cross was beautifully flicked into the net by Declan Cullen. The winner and seventh goal of a thrilling game came in the fourth of the six added on minutes. It came from a Seamie Crowe corner that Cathal Fahy met unmarked in the box to head home.
This was one of the performances of the season from Athenry who found the reserves when their backs were to the wall and the need greatest. They had the composure and calmness to drag them back into the game when decisions and the game was going against them.
This result leaves Athenry very much looking forward to the final against a strong Mervue side in a fortnight’s time. It will be the culmination of a long season’s hard work and a game that we all can't wait for.
Sunday 3rd May Western Hygiene Supplies Junior Premier Division
Corrib Rangers 2, Athenry FC 2,
(Scorers: Cathal Fahy & Colm O Donovan)
Report:
Athenry clinched the Western Hygiene Supplies Premier Division title in a thrilling final league game of the season in Millers Lane last Sunday morning.
In a game that kept everyone enthralled up until the final whistle it was Athenry who clinched the title thanks to the 2-2 draw. Athenry started brightly and had the first chance of the game as early as the second minute. With both Cathal Fahy and Colm O'Donovan working hard to pressurise the home defence, a resulting miss placed pass fell to Colm whose shot whizzed past the post. Within a couple of minutes they had an even better opportunity when an excellent ball out of the back from Brian Carrigg split the Rangers back four, this allowed Dan Cunningham a clear run on goal only to be brought down by the home keeper. Cathal Fahy stepped up to take the spot kick but his effort was well saved.
Thankfully this setback didn't affect the confidence as Athenry took the lead almost immediately as Colm O'Donovan got his head to a long throw and Cathal was on hand to put Athenry 1-0 ahead with a deft header of his own. Athenry were well on top during this period and the mercurial Colm O'Donovan scored with a magical effect from over 30 yards that sailed into the top corner to make it two up. With Athenry commanding at the back and Jamie O'Driscoll and Gary Forde working tirelessly in the middle they saw out what was left of the first half fairly comfortably.
The second half was going to be a more difficult 45 minutes as Rangers knew they had to up their performance to keep any chance of winning the title alive. While the opening 10 minutes was relatively calm in front of the Athenry goal, within the next 15 mins was all to change. Rangers scored their 1st goal from a wonderful Dave Golbey header that gave Andrew Walsh no chance in the Athenry goal. While there was no disputing the quality of Corrib Rangers first goal Athenry were a little aggrieved by the awarding of a penalty that was to level up the game. The ref Vincent Carew gave the home side a dubious penalty after a Rangers player fell over in the box despite getting his shot away which flew well wide. Johnny O Connor kept his nerve to level the game as we entered the final quarter. Rangers threw caution to the wind over the final period of the game and despite winning a number of corners Athenry were able to keep their composure and hold out. They regained a foothold as the clock went into injury time and when the final whistle was eventually blown it was greeted by great scenes of jubilation from Athenry.
This was a fantastic achievement for everyone involved. The squad never gave up and continuously believed they could win the league despite a poor start to the season which saw them well adrift after the opening 5 games.
Athenry only lost one of their last 17 league games and in any league that is winning form. It took a squad of 25 players who all played a part in helping Athenry claim the Brod Trill Premier League trophy. The well-deserved celebrations went on well into the night on Sunday but the squad were back training on Tuesday as the attention turns to the Connaught Cup semi-final next Sunday at 11am in Moanbaun.
Macron Kits U13 Premier Division
Craughwell Utd FC 0, Athenry 2,
(Scorers: Dumebi Abeli & Eoin Lawless)
The eleven Under 13 team mates gathered in a wet and overcast Craughwell for their final premier league game of the 2014/2015 season with an air of positivity that belied their league standing. Athenry were without their two first choice goal keepers, but were nevertheless upbeat and looking forward to the encounter, they wanted to finish the season on a high. Cathal Yaxley stepped forward and put on the goalies jersey when asked if he would take on the responsibility. It proved to be a revelation and just maybe the beginning of a new calling for Cathal?
The weather improved and conditions were a lot drier when the ref blew the whistle for the kick off. A lot of the initial tussles were contested in midfield and the match developed evenly between the two teams. Athenry had the help of the slight slope of the pitch in the first half and Craughwell had the wind to assist them. It was proving difficult for Athenry to really test the Craughwell goal keeper until a free was awarded 20 yards inside the oppositions half after 11 minutes. Eoin Lawless stood well back and eyed up his options, he decision to go direct for goal nearly reaped the benefits, as the ball rebounded squarely off the crossbar and back into play, a fine shot from Eoin, who had another great performance for Athenry in the centre of defence along with the ever reliable James Cummins. .
On 15 mins Craughwell broke free on the right side after winning the ball in midfield and approached the Athenry goal with determination, a cleanly struck ball was rocketed across the goal towards the top of the net only for a fully stretched Cathal Yaxley with lightening reflexes to reach back and with one hand deflect the ball over the bar. Athenry should have been behind but for this impressive save. Cathal patrolled his area with authority and continually came off his line to stop any danger developing around the box. The teams went in at the beak sharing the score line at 0-0.
Athenry created more chances in the second half than the first, but didn’t test the Carughwell keeper enough. Conor Whelan tackled well and delivered some telling passes down the right side. Craughwell had some chances of their own, which also pietered out. Mathew Brennan at left back was again proving that he is a very difficult opponent for any team to outwit. Dumebi Abeli was moved from midfield into a more attacking role and this increased the pressure on Craughwell. Harry Power was more comfortable switching to midfield and stopped some developing moves from Craughwell many times. Dumebi engaged in some clever link up play with Eoin Gavin and John Gray and questioned the oppositions defence on several occasions. 14 minutes into the second half Dumebi received the ball close to the centre circle and turned a couple of players easily to make some ground and then tried to manoeuvre himself to get a shot off which was blocked, he regained possession and turned again and delivered a low shot into the corner of the goal beyond the reach of the Craughwell goalie. 0-1
Sean Forde who was very effective was getting higher up the field with greater regularity, and got some good tackles and subsequent crosses into the forward line. More pressure on the Craughwell back four. Dumebi was relishing being in this more forward role and came close to testing the keeper a couple of times. Athenry were awarded a corner on the right side on 21 mins and Sean Byrne swung in a well struck cross from the corner flag for Dumebi to rise up and meet the ball with his head at pace and near accuracy as the ball rebounded off the crossbar there was a scramble for the ball and it was half cleared to a waiting and very composed Eoin Lawless, who thought of nothing else but placing the ball into the net through the congested goal mouth. Great strike, 0-2 Athenry. A few more scares close to the Athenry goal in the final minutes were dealt with by Cathal, who was growing in stature and the result didn’t look in doubt.
Nice way to finish the season. Well done lads!
Cathal Yaxley, Mathew Brennan, James Cummins, Eoin Lawless, Conor Whelan, John Gray, Dumebi Abeli, Eoin Gavin, Sean Byrne, Harry Power and Sean Forde
IT'S CLOSE BUT ATHENRY PROGRESS IN TIGHT AFFAIR
Connacht Junior Cup – Quarter Final
Venue: Colemanstown Date: 26/04/2015
Colemanstown Utd 1-2 Athenry FC
Athenry advanced to the last 4 of the Connaught Cup with a hard fought 2-1 victory over Colemanstown. Athenry can count themselves fortunate to have advanced to the semi-final stage after they were put to the pin of their collar by a strong and energetic home side.
On a lovely evening for football it was Athenry who settled quicker and started to get their passing game going. They had most of the early possession without creating any clear cut chances. Athenry did score the 1st goal of the game and it came direct from a free kick mid way through the first half. Colm O'Donovan won the ball just inside his own half and took on the Colemanstown defence, he was eventually taken down 25 yards from goal. Dan Cunningham stepped up and with a wonderful left foot strike put Athenry 1-0 in front. Colemanstown up the tempo now and were beginning to get a foothold in the game. They won a succession of free kicks just outside the Athenry box. Andrew Walsh in the Athenry goal was called into action and had to make two fine saves to keep his team in front.Athenry were happy enough to go in at half time 1-0 up after just shading things in that opening half.
The second have proved to be more difficult as Colemanstown went in search of the equaliser from the start. Their commitment and energy was beginning to cause Athenry problems but without creating any clear cut chances themselves. Although they did hit the bar with 2 well struck free kicks. Colemanstown did equalise with just under 20 min to go and it came from a free kick that was deflected onto the path of on rushing centre half who scored from close range. They now went in search of the winner and were unlucky not to score when a mix up between Packie Byrne and Andrew Walsh nearly let Colemanstown in. They will wonder how it was missed from a yard out as the tame effort hit the post.
Athenry now realised that they had to raise their game if they were going to win and advance to the semi final. This they duly did,
with the 90min nearly up Cathal Fahy got his head to a free kick and headed the ball back across goal where Packie Byrne was on hand to head in the winner. Athenry held on for a 2-1 win but not before they lost Gary Forde to a second yellow as the played out the remaining time with 10 men. Colemanstown may feel that they deserved to bring the game to extra time but in fairness to Athenry they dug deep when the need was greatest and had enough resolve to find the winner.
Athenry now turn their attention to their most important game for many a season as they face Corrib Rangers next Sunday morning in what should be a title decider in Millars Lane.
UNLUCKY YOUTHS DESERVE MUCH MORE
Galway Hibs came to Athenry Sunday to maintain their challenge for the top spot in the Youth Premier League. Hibs started well, as Athenry seemed somewhat nervous in possession for the first few minutes. Athenry gradually improved over the first half, defending well, particularly from corners, and the teams ended the half evenly matched. Unfortunately, a needlessly conceded free kick early in the second half provided Hibs the opportunity to lob the ball to the far post where the advancing winger kneed it into the Athenry net. Athenry heads did not drop, and the team played all the football in the remainder of the second half, with Hibs trying to spoil the Athenry link play.
The good effort by John McGough and Paddy Briggs in midfield and the wing play on the left by Kieran Fox did not however get rewarded. Athenry created several excellent goal opportunities, with Sean Fitzsimmons dragging a shot across the goal from the right, a shot from the left by Kieran Fox saved by the keeper, and a delightful cross from the left, again by Kieran resulting in a flicked header by Ryan Shaughnessy in front of goal that crept wide. Hibs held on to steal the victory when a draw was the least Athenry deserved.
Athenry Team: Sean Mooney GK, Defenders: Aaron Flaherty, Darragh Bergin, Kieran McCallion, Jack Leech,
Midfielders: John McGough, Paddy Briggs, Ryan Shaughnessy, Kieran Fox Forwards: Dean McCann, Nico Mpekoa
Subs: Sean Fitsimmons for Nico and Eoghan Keane for Aaron.
25th April 2015 - Athenry U13b 3 – 3 Barna U 13B
A pulsating finish to the season for Athenry’s U13’s.
Athenry played host on a fresh April morning to a resurgent Barna team who, after a poor start to the season had secured 4 points from their previous two games. Athenry’s confidence was justifiably high also, with the team unbeaten on the field of play since November.
Barna started on the front foot with early pressure coming on the Athenry back four. Alex Keogh twice saved the home team in the opening five minutes, with his usual excellent reading of the game putting him in the right place at the right time. Captain Bobby Martins however began to lead the fight to Barna, with two shots on target, and generally was creating havoc in the Barna midfield and defence. Halfway through the first half, excellent defending from Colm Sweeney found John Ward, who in turn dinked a ball over the top for Patrick Cronnelly to run onto. Cool as you like, he slotted past the Barna ‘keeper to give Athenry the lead. Barna were not lying down though and began to exert some pressure once more on the home team. Terrific defending from Cathal Flanagan and Gavin Lydon in the corners kept Barna out for a while, but persistence eventually paid off, and when a deflected clearance found itself in the path of the incoming Barna midfielder, he made no mistake with a low hard shot from the edge of the box. Half time, and two well matched teams were level.
Athenry started the second half visibly looking for three points, and with Ian O’Halloran tracking the game well, sending probing passes through to Martin Fahy, and Kieran Dumper, Athenry once more tested the Barna defence. One of Athenry’s many corner’s paid dividends when O’Halloran dispatched to the back post, and a classy finish from Andrew Coffey gave Athenry a deserved lead. Barna held firm however for the next 5 minutes and then began another fight back. Heroic defending from Jack Burke and Colm Sweeney in the heart of the defence was keeping Barna out, but some neat and fast interplay caught the home team out, and Barna were again level. John Ward had been pulling the strings for Athenry all day, and in a frantic passage of play he had the ball in the Barna net a split second after the ref had blown for a penalty for Athenry. With five minutes left on the clock and the noise levels in Moanbaun rising, John ‘Zinedine’ Ward calmly chipped the keeper to huge cheers from the home support. Christian Firlay played his part by keeping the away defenders busy in the final minutes, but a brave Barna refused to lie down, and a cross from the edge of the box was met with a tremendous header to the roof of the net, giving the keeper no chance. An end to end game, played in good spirits, which neither team deserved to lose.
1. Alex Keogh 2. Gavin Lydon 3. Jack Burke 4. Colm Sweeney 5. Cathal Flannagan 6. Bobby Martins 7. Patrick Cronnelly 8. Ian O’Halloran 9. Kieran Dumper 10. John Ward 11. Martin Fahy Subs: 12. Andrew Coffey 13. Kristian Firlay 14. Evan Williams
Athenry goals: Patrick Cronnelly, Andrew Coffey, John Ward
Man of the match: John Ward
BATTLING YOUTHS GIVE THEIR ALL
Athenry Youth A travelled to Mervue for the first meeting of these teams this season, with Mervue strengthened by the return of their U19 players to the squad. Athenry were fastest out of the blocks with Adam Murphy scoring within 2 minutes of kick-off, from a good move down the left by Jack Leech. Mervue pulled the goal back after 15 minutes, but Athenry went ahead again on 30 minutes when Kieran McCallion scored, having just come on as a sub for Eoghan Keane. Disappointingly Mervue pegged an undeserved equaliser on the stroke of half time. Mervue started the second half strongly, scoring two goals in quick succession, supplemented by a converted penalty on 60 minutes and a further goal on 70 minutes to take control of the tie 6-2.
Athenry heads didn't drop however, with Dean McCann harrying the Mervue defensive line, and John McGough, on as a sub for Niko Mpekoa, and Ryan Shaughnessy doing well in midfield.
After several missed opportunities by both sides Adam Murphy stole the ball from the Mervue centre back and slotted it home. Soon after, an excellent cross by Sean Fitzsimmons, on for the tiring but hardworking Paddy Briggs, led to a Ryan Shaughnessy goal and a 6-4 score line. Athenry battled valiantly for the remaining 10 minutes, but were caught by perhaps the best taken goal of the game, a looping shot from the left-side outside the box into the bottom right corner of Sean Mooney, the Athenry keeper's goal. It finished 7-4 to Mervue, with excellent football by both sides.
DEPLETED ATHENRY DOWN TO BUSINESS END OF SEASON
COROFIN 0-2 ATHENRY
Athenry won their penultimate game in the Western Hygiene Supplies Premier League with a comfortable 2-0 win away to Corofin Utd on Sunday morning.Athenry knew this was a must win game and had to start without Colm O'Donovan who was suspended,Cathal Fahy who was injured and Brian Carrigg due to work commitments. From early on it was obvious that Corofin were going to try and contain Athenry by having 10 men behind the ball at all times. Athenry found themselves with most of the ball early on trying to pick openings in the home defence. The first couple of chances fell to Brian Murphy who had the beating of his man all day.The better of the chances came when he drew a decent save from the home keeper as he cut inside and got a decent shot away. The home side were beginning to drop deeper as the half went on and Athenry's pressure eventually told when Seamie Crowe(who was having his first start in 5 months) played a lovely through ball to Anthony Connolly who played the ball across the box and turned into his own net by the Corofin defender.Athenry saw out the remainder of the first half in control without creating too many clear cut chances.
The second half began along similar veins with Athenry pressing ,looking for the second goal that would make the game safe. Within 10 min the second goal did arrive when Brian Murphy had an excellent effort that the goalkeeper could only parry and Gary Forde was on hand to hammer the ball home from a tight angle.Corofin now had to change tactics and push on a little more, this allowed Athenry to get in behind them and gave them more time on the ball creating additional chances. With 20 min left Athenry won a penalty when Dan Cunningham beat two Corofin defenders with ease and cut into the box before being taken down.Unfortunately for Dan who took the penalty himself it was well saved by the home keeper. Athenry were able to see out the remaining time in comfort with Corofin only creating one half chance that was deflected over the bar.Declan Cullen had a goal disallowed for offside and Alan Harty had a fine effort saved as the game went into injury time.
The win sees Athenry going into their final game away to Corrib Rangers knowing a point will be good enough to see them win the title.
Attention now turns to the 1/4 final of the Connaught Cup and a difficult assignment away to local neighbours Colemanstown next Sunday.
Results Sunday 12th of April: Connacht Junior Cup – Last 16
Real Tubber 2, Athenry FC 3,
(Scorers: Colm O Donovan, Dan Cunningham & Declan Cullen)
Athenry advanced to the last 8 of the Connaught Cup this afternoon after a hard fought victory over a determined and physical home side.On a pitch that wasn't conducive to good flowing football, Athenry started well and went ahead with in the first couple of minutes when Dan Cunningham got on the end of a good move involving Alan Harty and Brian Murphy to head Athenry in front. Real Tubber gradually got to grips Athenry's movement, playing with a strong breeze and the hill behind them they began to create chances. Tubber equalised direct from a free kick that Andrew Walsh will have been disappointed to let slip under his body.Both sides would have been satisfied with the 1-1 half time score which was a fair reflection on their efforts. With Athenry's best chance falling to Packie Byrne whose header shaved the post as the first half came to an end.
The second half began with both teams giving as good as they got with the referee becoming more lenient with the home sides challenges. He then awarded Tubber a dubious free kick which was excellently struck home into the top corner giving Andrew Walsh no chance.With the home side now 2-1 up 30mins remaining, Athenry had to up the tempo and not panic. They now started controlling matters and creating chances with the best ones falling to Colm O'Donovan and Paddy Quinn but they were cleared off the line.With 20mins left to go Athenry equalised with a brilliant strike from the aforementioned Colm O'Donovan who scored with a stunning effort into the bottom corner.
At this stage it was all Athenry and the winner came with time running out. A cross from the left was met by a Declan Cullen diving header at the back post.Athenry were now in a position to see out the game controlling the ball and not giving Real Tubber any opportunity to create any chances.This was an excellent and deserved win for Athenry who showed the kind of experience and calmness needed in situations like they found themselves in today. They now progress to a quarter final against Colemanstown in a couple of weeks as the climax to the season builds.But before that game they have the vital penultimate league game against Corofin next Sunday.
GFA U16 Division 2
Knocknacarra B 0, Athenry B 7,
(Scorers: Morgan Leggett x4, Szymon Slokiek x2 & Ronan Bergin)
Man of the match: Morgan Leggett.
Athenry started with a 4-2-1-3 formation, it seemed to suit the players with plenty of attacking play but also remained solid a back. Athenry got the first goal of the match when David Gilhooley put in a long pass into the box which was headed on from Ronan Bergin and then the ball fell to the feet of Morgan who scored his first goal of the game. Athenry got their second of the match 10 mins before half time, once again Morgan getting the goal. No changes at half time, Athenry continue to play well going forward with very little for the defence to do. Darren Jennings came on for Ronan Leahy who had a solid game in midfield for one of his first games back in a couple of weeks due to injury. Athenry added more goals from Morgan x2, Szymon x2 and Ronan Bergin with a lovely chip over the keeper after excellent team play in the build-up, later Darren got a lovely assist with a low through ball for Morgan and Szymon with a good solo goal it was a good attacking performance from the lads. Elliott Langan, Nathan Healy came on for Cyprian and Morgan, both of the subs did well when they came on, Nathan unlucky not to score and Elliot was solid in front of the backline, also well done to the backline of Brian, Ryan, Liam, Daniel and Diarmuid for their second clean sheet in the last three games. Overall a good day for the lads, it was hard to pick a man of the match, with good performances from Szymon, David (unlucky not to score in 1st half but good performance in midfield with plenty of decent passes and good tackles) and Ronan to name just a few but it was given to Morgan for his 4 goals.
Team: Diarmuid Somers, Brian Mentane, Ryan McNeilis, Liam Egan, Daniel Kinneen, David Gilhooley, Ronan Leahy, Szymon Slokiek, Cyprian Drozdol, Morgan Leggett and Ronan Bergin. Subs Elliott Langan, Nathan Healy and Darren Jennings.
Kevin Power U11 Cup – Round 2
Colga FC 0, Athenry 5,
(Scorers: Colm Sweeney, Eoghan Burke, Thomas Carr & Daire McCarthy x2)
Athenry A played Colga A on a fantastic new pitch at Colga in the second round of the Kevin Power U11 Cup, the bad weather held off for the game to make for great playing conditions. Athenry won the match 5-0 captained by keeper Matthew Feeney and progress to the next round. There were goals from Colm Sweeney, Eoghan Burke, Thomas Carr and Daire McCarthy got one in either half including a bullet header from an Eoghan Burke corner. Very happy with the result but further improvement will be needed if we are to progress further in this competition. A few lads would be nominees for man of the match including Daire McCarthy, Darragh McNeilis and Eoghan Burke. To the referee's credit he took the time and effort with both teams in explaining beforehand what he wanted from them in the game. The kids took all this on board and respected any decision he made making for a free flowing game. On we go to the next round.
Lee Brothers Youth Premier
Bearna Na Forbacha 1, Athenry 0,
Athenry Youth A travelled to Barna for a league game, having beaten the same opposition in the Connacht Shield the week before. Unfortunately Athenry came away with a reverse of last week's result: a 0-1 loss to a sloppy goal in the second half against the run of play. Athenry again played most of the football, and despite a diminished squad should have had a win, as the Barna keeper made several good saves, in particular from a shot by John McGough and a Kieran Fox free kick. Dean McCann had the ball in the Barna net but the goal did not count because of a ball-to-hand ruled as handball by the referee. Kudos goes to Darragh Bergin for playing as keeper. Athenry focus turns now to an away game Tuesday against Craughwell.
Sunday 5th of April: Western Hygiene Junior Premier Division
Galway Hibs 0, Athenry FC 2, (Scorers: Dan Cunningham & Seamie Crowe)
This was a must win game for Athenry if they had any designs on winning the Premier Division title. In complete contrast to the Mervue game they started excellently and played in a confident manner. Athenry had the first chance of the game inside the first couple of minutes when the cross bar came to Hibs rescue after a lovely move involving six players. It was a game that was played in beautiful morning sunshine in Bohermore both teams played an attractive style of football with Athenry forcing the issue from early on. Chances continued to come and go as Brian Murphy, Cathal Fahy, Gary Forde and Alan Harty all had chances to give Athenry the lead but due to some wayward shooting and excellent goalkeeping from John Cotter in the Hibs goal Athenry couldn't find the breakthrough. Hibs did have one or two half chances of their own that were dealt comfortable by Andrew Walsh in the Athenry goal. Athenry had most of the play during the first half and were disappointed to go in all square at half time.
The second half started in similar vein with Athenry moving the ball quickly and continuously switching the play keeping Hibs on the back foot. The pace of the game never let up as both sides went in search of the opening goal. Cathal Fahy (who worked tirelessly throughout) had another couple of chances that went a begging before Andrew Walsh was called into action and reacted brilliantly to get a strong hand to a Hibs effort that was goal bound. As the 70th minute approached Athenry won a free kick and introduced Dan Cunningham for Brian Murphy who had run himself into the ground. Dan’s first task was to take the free kick which he duly struck beautifully into the bottom left hand corner to give Athenry a deserved 1-0 lead. Hibs now had to push on and this created gaps that Athenry were trying to capitalise on. Seamie Crowe had just replaced Colm O'Donovan (who had caused Hibs no end of trouble all day) when after another flowing move the ball fell to Seamie on the edge of the 18 yard box who used all his guile and technique to stroke the ball home and put Athenry in a comfortable position. Athenry were able to close out the game and record a very important win that now sees them back on top of the Premier Division with 3 very difficult games remaining.
This was a very pleasing performance and the players knew themselves that they had to respond positively after the loss to Mervue two weeks previously. It was an all-round great team effort with Athenry strong at the back, full of energy and commitment in midfield and always creating chances up front, it also shows the strength and depth of the squad which will be again called upon on Thursday evening when they play St Bernard’s in the last home game of the season.
Sunday 5th of April: Connacht U18 Shield, Semi-final.
Bearna Na Forbacha 0 Athenry 1, (Scorer: Colm Flynn)
Athenry Youth A team travelled to Furbo for an Easter Sunday semi-final in the Connacht Shield against Barna. Although the game was played in glorious sunshine the quality of football was not helped by Barna high-ball tactics. Athenry were playing most of the football, controlling the midfield battle through Ryan Shaughnessy and Colm Flynn in the opening half, and got their reward through a headed goal by Flynn from a Kieran Fox corner after a stunning shot by Adam Murphy had been partied wide by the Barna keeper. Football quality in the second half degenerated somewhat as Barna pushed on to try equalise, with a strong wind in their favour. Athenry held on gallantly to secure victory, with a strong defensive performance by Kieran McCallion, Darragh Bergin, Jack Leech and Aaron Flaherty.
The final is to be played on the May bank holiday in Strandhill against local rivals Craughwell.
Athenry Senior B’s 5 V 0 Colemanstown
Date: 04/04/15 Venue: Colemanstown
Scorers: Joey Burke, Colin Bane, Oliver Rabbitt, Aidan Fahy (Pen) & Kevin Culkin
Athenry Senior B Team
Goalkeeper: Niall Cannon
Defenders: Aiden Fahy, Damien Sweeney, Dermot Parker, Conor Gavin
Midfielders: Mark Lawless, Colin Bane, Barclay Healey,
Strikers: Joey Burke, Martin Ward, Kevin Culkin
Subs: Diarmuid Flaherty, Oliver Rabbitt, Jamie Cronin
Match Report
"Never gona be a B team without me, never gona be a B team without me Aido, Aido, Aido, Aido, Aido."
Athenry B’s last game of the season and what a game to watch, a five goal thriller from the lads. The match didn’t kick off until 5pm in Colemanstown. After the home win last week the lads were looking to make it two in a row. Coach Roger Leggett went with the same formation (4-3-3) as last week which worked well.
As the first half kicked off there was some good one and two touch football being played by the lads, you could see the improvement over the last few weeks, whatever their coach is doing in training it’s paying off. Some chances wide of the post for Joey Burke, and a great shot just wide for Mark Lawless, with excellent crosses in from Damien Sweeney and Martin Ward Athenry were unlucky not to be two or three up in the first half. Roger having decided to give all the lads on the bench a run out today being their last game of the season he decided to make his first change quickly into the second half with swapping Martin Ward for Diarmuid Flaherty, this change worked well from the off with Athenry trying to break down Colemanstown defence the break through finally came with their first goal from their number one striker Joey “Billy Elliott” Burke. It wasn’t long before the second goal came from one of their midfielder’s Colin Bane, with a good piece of play down the wing Kevin Culkin’s shot hit the back of Joey Burke (who was on the floor injured) and Colin inside the six yard box poked the ball into the back of the net.
Athenry had Colemanstown on the back foot having all of the play pushing up and looking for more goals. A second substitution for Roger’s lads Colin off and Olli Rabbitt on playing down the wing, a great cross from Kevin Culkin into the six yard box saw Joey just get a touch with his head only for the ball to fall down to young Oliver at the back post slotting the ball home with his first touch three up for Athenry. Conor Gavin was awarded a penalty having being taken out inside the 18 yard box Aiden Fahy stepped up to take it, Roger Leggett nervously looking on from the side-line as Aiden was looking to redeem himself having missed the last penalty a few week back. But Aiden stepped up and fired the ball straight down the middle fooling their keeper who dived to the left. Athenry’s third and final sub was Mark Lawless coming off and Jamie Cronin coming on, playing up front alongside Joey and Kevin, it wasn’t long after Jamie coming on he was putting plenty of crosses into the box with some great play from the lads in the middle of the park getting the ball out wide. This gave Joey and Kevin plenty of chances not long before goal number five came from an excellent cross from Jamie down the right hand side into the six yard box only for Kevin to tap home with Colemanstown nowhere to be seen. This was the first clean sheet of the season and a special mention to Niall Cannon in goal as the seventeen year old down very well when called upon during the first half and one excellent save late on ensured nothing got past him.
It was an excellent performance to end Athenry B’s season with five goals in the second half. Plenty of names in the hat for man of the match but Roger Leggett gave it to their striker Joey Burke who had an excellent game running all over the park, putting in some crunching tackles and tracking back into his defensive duties when required.
Good luck for season 2015/2016 lads.
None scoring but high quality fare in Raheen
U13 Div 2 Athenry FC 0 - 0 Colemanstown Utd
A warm April afternoon saw Colemanstown Utd visit Raheen hoping to remain in the hunt for top of the table honours, while Athenry were looking to continue a very impressive run of form since February. The away team started the brightest, putting Athenry under some early pressure. Colemanstown's danger women, who bagged a hat trick in the corresponding fixture earlier in the season, was closely watched by Athenry's commanding centre back pairing of Martin O'Flaherty and Jack Burke. Captain Gavin Lydon led by example by laying down some early markers to keep the initial threats at bay. The initial Colemanstown threats were failing to penetrate Athenry's defence, and their attacking set up was exploited by a superb through ball from Ronan Jennings. Kelvin Langan appeared to be well onside when he dispatched the ball to the net, but was ruled offside by the ref. Half time and the teams were level.
Both teams lined out for the second half as they had finished the first, but now it was the home team that set the pace, pressing hard for that elusive goal. Wonderful link up play from Ian O'Halloran and Dara McCarthy put Kelvin through once more, but the left footed volley shot just over the crossbar. Andrew Coffey was leading the line well, keeping 3 defenders busy, and clever play from John Ward put Andrew through on goal and his shot was unlucky not to hit the target. As the second half progressed, Colemanstown began to dominate possession and went in search of the goal that would keep them in the hunt for the league title. Ivan Power was not to passed though and his along with many other crucial tackles kept a lid on the huge pressure being applied by Colemanstown. While the vocal away support and unceasing wave of attacks added to the pressure, goalkeeper Alex Keogh kept his cool throughout, and was always well positioned to deal with any threats. Martin Fahy came on and gave everything for the last 15 minutes.
The whistle blew to hand a fair result to both sides, but this Athenry team are fast building a reputation as the hardest working team in the league.
1 - Alex Keogh 2 - Jack Burke 3 - Martin O'Flaherty 4 - Gavin Lydon 5 - Ivan Power 6 - Ronan Jennings 7 - Ian O'Halloran 8 - Dara McCarthy 9 - Kelvin Langan 10 - John Ward 11 - Andrew Coffey Subs 12 - Martin Fahy for Andrew Coffey 13 - Colin Williams 14 - Bobby Martins 15 - Aaron Cunningham
TIRELESS LAWLESS HELPS GET THE WIN Saturday 28th of March
Western Hygiene Junior Division 4 - Athenry B 3-1 Kilshanvey Utd
(Scorers: Martin Ward & Joey Burke x2)
Having been disappointed to come away with no points against Cregmore last weekend Roger’s men were out to prove a point. Athenry started the game well with three strikers pressing, Kilshanvey’s only option was to play the ball long although the wind didn’t help in that regard. After 10mins Mark Lawless flicked a ball over the defence straight to Martins feet and he coolly placed the ball around the keeper into the back of the net. As play resumed Athenry kept control of the game. 25mins gone and saw the referee produce two red cards as two players got into a scuffle resulting in both lads going off for violent conduct. After that the game became more open in midfield with Mark dropping back behind the strikers. Athenry had a few more chances before the break but couldn’t put them away. Half-time came and Niall Cannon who was in goal had to go and with no sub keeper Kieran McCallion put on the gloves, Oliver Rabbitt filled in at left back.
The second half started and Kilshanvey looked a lot more lively putting three up front. With both teams going at it, it was not long before Joey got his first of the game with another assist by Mark. Great work by Oliver down the left hand side finding Barclay Healey before Mark set up Joey. Five minutes later McCallion was judged to have kicked the ball out from outside the box free kick to Kilshanvey who were denied by the out stretched keeper. With legs beginning to get tired the game was getting more stretched Colin Bane played in a great ball to Martin only to see his shot blocked with the rebound falling to Joey who stroke the ball perfectly to make it three nil. Kilshanvey got one back with after some bad defending. On the day Athenry could have had more but overall a decent performance. Their last game of the season is this Saturday away to Colemanstown at 5pm.
ITS STILL UP FOR GRABS DESPITE RESULT
Western Hygiene Supplies Junior Premier Division
Mervue Utd 3 Athenry FC 0
Report:
Athenry's unbeaten run came to an abrupt end Sunday morning in Mervue when they were comprehensively beaten by a strong Mervue side. Athenry who hadn't lost a league game since the opening game of the season came into today's game full of confidence on the back of the recent run which had seen them join Mervue at the top with a game in hand.
Athenry fielded the same side that had beaten Team Celtic 6-0 the previous week in the hope and expectation that it would be good enough on the day. As early as the 4th minute Athenry had conceded the opener when they failed to deal with a long ball from Mervue that was allowed to bounce inside their half and a subsequent ball over the defence was struck home by Alex Lee under the body of Athenry's keeper Andrew Walsh.
Athenry continued to struggle to get a foothold in the game as Mervue extended their advantage midway through the first half. Lee again was on hand to stroke the ball home from inside the six yard box after good work on the right and a high cross eluded the Athenry rear-guard. Athenry went in at the break 2-0 down and brought on Gary Forde and Paddy Quinn at the beginning of the second half in an effort to get back into the game. However things got worse within five minutes of the restart when Barry Moran received the ball inside the Athenry box turned and got his shot away that beat Andrew Walsh at the near post.
It was always going to be an uphill battle from here and to Athenry's credit they battled to get themselves back into the game. Colm O'Donovan was fouled inside the Mervue half and from the resulting free kick Cathal Fahy played in Paddy Quinn whose attempted cross was handled by the home defence. Unfortunately for Athenry Cathal Fahy's penalty was well saved by John Egan in the Mervue goal.
Other chances fell to Paddy Quinn, Brian Carrigg and another good chance for Cathal that all went a begging to prove this was just not going to be Athenry's day. Mervue had chances of their own as Athenry pushed forward but the game finished on a score line of Mervue 3-0 Athenry.
A very disappointing performance will have to be put behind Athenry immediately as they play their game in hand next Sunday. The league remains in their own hands with five games remaining.
Athenry Senior B’s 2 V 2 Galway Bohs
Date: 14/03/15 Venue: Raheen, Athenry
Scorers: Joey Burke, Kieran McCallion
Athenry Senior B Team
Goalkeeper: Jason Ollernshaw
Defenders: Aidan Fahy, Damien Sweeney, Martin Ward, Conor Gavin
Midfielders: Mark Lawless, Colin Bane, Diarmuid Flaherty, Daniel Bane, Michael O’ Halloran
Strikers: Joey Burke,
Subs: Niall Cannon, Kieran Barrett, Kieran McCallion, Niko Mpekoa
Match Report
Well what a complete turn round within a week for the Senior B’s, straight from the kick off Athenry had Galway Bohs on the back foot with at least five chances on goal within 20mins for their striker Joey Burke but due to the lack of service to their front man this season he was unable to finish them, sometimes being caught offside or firing over the crossbar but plenty of vocal encouragement from the side-line. Athenry’s Coach Roger Leggett must have worked miracles in the training sessions this week as the team seemed to be playing some excellent football again passing with one and two touch as shown at the start of the season.
A welcome sight back for one of their midfielder’s Daniel Bane after serving a two match ban. Daniel had plenty of pace and was turning Bohs defence inside out, he was very unlucky not to put away his two chances that he made with some darting runs down the left wing, firing the ball straight across the goal mouth.
A straight 50/50 ball played into the path of Mark Lawless saw him get a yellow card for a foul on the Bohs keeper. Diarmuid Flaherty had a goal disaqllowed as it was deemed not to have crossed the line with Joey Burke firing the ball back into the Bohs net in celebration only for the ref to ruke out the goal saying Joey was offside & that Diarmuid’s shot had not crossed the line.
After these scare’s for Galway Bohs the game seemed to turn into a battle in midfield for both sides with Bohs coming out the victor as they made some good passes working the ball from left to right putting the ball into the path of their striker who buried the ball into the back of the net. Bohs kept the pressure on Athenry and again a chance came to score with good play down the right hand side and a perfectly weighted cross onto the head of their striker. It was two-nil down in the space of a few minutes and against the run of play for the B’s. Athenry were very quiet but were awarded a free kick just inside Bohs half, with Athenry pushing up their lads into the box Mick O’Halloran took the free kick, floating a ball straight onto the Bohs keeper, with Joey Burke coming in on it and headed into the back of Bohs net. Half Time.
Bohs tried a sneaky shot from the kick-off not fooling Athenry’s keeper Jason Ollernshaw who had it well covered. A few harsh tackles started going in from Bohs with Athenry keeping their heads the ref started dishing out some yellow cards. You could see Athenry pushing for the equaliser as Bohs seemed to be running out of steam. A heavy tackle from Boh’s forced Athenry’s coach Roger Leggett to make a change with only 12mins left, Kieran McCallion coming on for Damien Sweeney (Knee). Two minutes later Kieran Barrett came on for Diarmuid Flaherty and Niko Mpekoa on for Mark Lawless. A little team shuffle as Barrett played LB, McCallion played CB pushing Martin Ward up front who had a solid game playing CB. The changes worked straight away with Niko playing off the shoulder of Joey up front and missing out on a goal with the ball passing the wrong side of the framework. Plenty of pace from this youngster down the right caused problems for Bohs. The ref then blew for a blatant foul on Niko who was taken out by a Boh’s defender and he was sent off for a second bookable offence. Mick O’Halloran took the free kick as before drifting a quality ball in on the Boh’s goalkeeper with Joey Burke rising between two defenders to nod it down taking the defenders with him in the process, Kieran McCallion took advantage of the loose ball burying the ball into the net making the score line two each. The Ref blew for full time
A point shared between them but had Athenry finished their chances the score line could have been a lot different. You can see some of the improvement’s showing within the team but sometimes a lack of players discipline not listening to their coach’s instructions and being more composed in front of goal they can do a lot better.
Western Hygiene Supplies Junior Division 4
Athenry B 1, Galway Hibs B 2
Date: 07/03/15 Venue: Crestwood
Scorers: Conor Gavin
Athenry Senior B Team Goalkeeper: Jason Ollernshaw, Defenders: Aidan Fahy, Damien Sweeney, Dermot Parker, Conor Gavin, Midfielders: Mark Lawless, Colin Bane, Diarmuid Flaherty, Kieran Barrett, Barclay Healey (C), Striker: Joey Burke, Subs: Martin Ward (70min), Kevin Culkin (55min), Alberto Cadiz.(70min)
Match Report
Once the ref confirmed that the game was going ahead due to the amount of sand dumped on approx ½ of the 18yrd box thanks to the Galway Corporation, the game kicked off in very blustery conditions with the wind against Athenry B’s in the first half.
A steady start to the game by both teams due to the weather conditions, Athenry’s goalkeeper had trouble with the goal kicks as the wind was just pulling the ball back towards his own 18yrd box, this gave Hibs a big advantage on Athenry as they were pushed up high upon them. A few heavy tackles flying in on the Athenry lads as in their previous meeting with Hibs at the home game a couple of weeks ago, costing Hibs with some yellow cards from the ref. Hibs could have had a player sent off for simulation which should have been his 2nd yellow but the ref decided just to have a quiet word.
This was a day for some good basic football to be seen with plenty of accurate passing between players on the ground, & not a day for the “long ball” tactics which does not suit Athenry’s game anyway. Mark Lawless & Joey Burke both had a couple of shots towards the Hibs goal but nothing to trouble the Hibs keeper. Hibs went one up due to an error on Athenry’s right hand side as their right back got caught pushing up from a Hibs throw in leaving space which Hibs took advantage of & scored.
Halftime came with a team talk from their coach Roger Leggett it was now Athenry’s advantage for 45mins with the wind behind them. Not long after the restart Hibs gave away a free kick just inside the halfway line on the right hand side. Athenry’s right back Conor Gavin stepped up to take the free having been told to hit the six yard box the wind had an assist as the ball beat the Hibs goalkeeper & ending up in the back of the net “GOAL” Athenry levelled it up.
After the restart Athenry seemed to switch off for 5mins as in other matches this season allowing Hibs to have the ball & not closing them down quick enough, this usually ends up with the opposition coming close with efforts on goal or scoring. It was not long before Hibs striker was one on one with Athenry’s Aiden Fahy & was brought down outside the 18yrd box, what should have been a blatant free kick was seen by the ref as a penalty. Athenry protested with the referee showing him the big tuft of grass that had been dug up three feet out due to the tackle but he was not persuaded (Conor Gavin booked in the process) & Hibs stepped up to score their second.
With about 20 mins left Roger Leggett decided to take off Kieran Barrett & Diarmuid Flaherty for Alberto Cadiz & Martin Ward hoping that an additional striker would help them take something from the game. There had been chances toward the end of the match but none clear cut as the attackers were not decisive enough and lacked any real creativity. Full time came, as before this would seem like more points dropped on what has to be a pretty disappointing season for the Senior B Team.
"THE TOSS OF A COIN".......
'Athenry 3-4 Tuam 7/3/15
Sometimes in sport, the toss of the coin before the commencement of a match can have a big part to play in the outcome. With the wind blowing strongly toward the clubhouse at Moanbaun Eoin Lawless knew, as captain, that if Athenry were to win the toss, he would choose to play with the wind. Tuam Celtic won the toss and decided likewise. The wind did indeed have a part to play in the match especially in the first half. Long balls from the Tuam half put early pressure on the Athenry back four. And after a difficult ball, made more difficult by the driving wind, which was tough to contain by Paul Mooney in the Athenry goal it rebounded back into the path of the oncoming Tuam attack. Three mins gone and Tuam are a goal up.
There were a further number of difficult balls to contend with by the Athenry back four, before the team as a whole began to respond in a more positive manner. Dumebi Abeli up front, collected some clever balls from Conor Whelan on the right side of midfield only to have their efforts snuffed out by a dogged Tuam defence. At nine minutes Athenry crafted an equaliser as Sean Byrne connected at close range with a well placed cross from the boot of Eoin Gavin, 1:1. A minute later it was 2:1 to Tuam. Two mins after the restart Tuam were ahead once more, with further assistance from the wind at their backs 3:1 up. Athenry were responsive and didn't let their heads drop and constructed some forays into the Tuam half and were nearly rewarded for their efforts when John Gray brought the ball from a wide right position and fashioned a superb cross to the feet of Dumebi, only for the attempt to clear the cross bar and miss the target. Eoin Lawless joined the defence from midfield to shore things up. On 22 mins Tuam found the net again with a scramble in the Athenry box they were first to react and there seemed no way back for the home team. A little respite was welcome for the boys in maroon when Tuam were disallowed a goal which the ref deemed to be offside.
At half time Athenry had only to look at what was ahead of them in a positive way and try and put the first half behind them. 4:1 down. They did just that and controlled the second half from the off and could have cut the deficit earlier. Eoin Lawless was moved back into a centre back position and Cathal Yaxley was moved up to assume a striker's role. After 16mins Cathal struck the ball from inside the Tuam box after receiving the ball from the persistent John Gray. With great defensive play again from James Cummins and Mathew Brennan it seemed that something could be salvaged from the game. Eoin Lawless and Conor Rabbitt added to the now quite solid back four, with Conor pushing more into the midfield area. When a free kick was awarded on 24mins ten meters inside the Tuam half, Eoin Lawless sent the ball high into the penalty box and Conor Rabbitt turned to meet the ball on the volley and beat the impressive Tuam goal keeper. 3:4. Athenry could have found the net on several occasions more with their positive play. The ref blew the whistle to end the come back prematurely. The wind and the toss of a coin.
MIDFIELD GENERAL EMMA BOSSES THE GAME
Girls U10 Premier League
Athenry A 6-0 Maree/Oranmore A
(Scorers: Nina Bodamer, Alannah Sweeney, Emma Fitzgerald, Ruby Mullen, Aine Hardiman, Leah Joyce)
In very blustery conditions Athenry controlled the match right from the start not letting Maree/Oranmore settle into their game. Emma Fitzgerald got the break through with a fine strike to settle us down. Nina Bodamer got the second after that the goals kept coming. Emma Fitzgerald had a great game today she controlled the midfield and never stopped running all day well done. The girls had a great day and all of the squad played very well keep up the good work.
LEE SHOWS THE WAY
U14 GFA Cup – Round 3 - Ramblers 1-2 Athenry FC
(Scorer: Brandon Lee x2)
Athenry had a lively start in their first Cup game down in Leitrim, on the 20min mark Ramblers went one goal up through an own goal after their first attack on goal. Athenry recovered well and were rewarded with a goal from Brandon on 25min. The inform ramblers keeper kept the scores level when the half time whistle blew. In the second half Athenry maintained their attacking form finding it hard to break through the Ramblers defence. Midway through the second half Brandon again found the net for the second time and the game finished 2-1 to Athenry. This was a well-deserved win.
TEAM PERFORMANCE HELPS McNEILIS TO A HAT TRICK
Kevin Power U11 Cup – Round 1- Athenry 5-1 Colga C
(Scorers: Daragh McNeilis x3, Eoghan Burke, Adam Molloy)
It was an easier day at the office for the lads with a win in the first round of the Cup. Athenry played fluently from the start, which was rewarded with four quick goals in succession inside 10 minutes, this saw off a gallant Colga side. In a day of an abundance of goals Daragh McNeilis, Eoghan Burke and Adam Molloy excelled assisted admirably by Colin Jordan, Shane Fox, Thomas Fleet, Shane Quinn and Thomas Carr. Well done to the lads as they progress to round two.
ATHENRY A WIN DESPITE B'S EXCELLENT PERFORMANCE
Youths 17/18 GFA Cup – Round 2,
Athenry A: 1, Athenry B: 1 - After Extra Time: 2 – 1
(A: Scorers: Colm Flynn 1, Paddy Briggs 1 B: Scorer: Matthew Treacy 1).
EXPECTATION
The moment both teams became aware
of this fixture there was an air of unprecedented excitement. This was not only an important cup game but it was also a local derby. The winners of this match would undoubtedly
gain bragging rights over their respected opponents. Their positions in their leagues of both these teams went out the window for this game effectively as this would surely be a classic cup affair.
BUILD UP
Friday morning arrived, the day of the match. Both teams set to meet at 2.30 pm. The niceties would be exchanged here, for now both sets of players could converse with each other. As kick off became ever closer though the friendships would have to be suspended as on the pitch in a few moments would be simply two teams vying to be in the next round of this all important cup. Crowds began to gather as this game had been advertised rightly as a worthy fixture to attend. Just as both teams neared the end of their pre match routine the referee sounded his whistle. Both teams gathered around the centre circle, trying not to crack a smile as they knew now was game time and they had to be focused on the task which lay before them.
FIRST HALF
At around 3.30 the game was underway. The conditions were ideal for this encounter, the wind and rain had died down, the pitch had been rolled shortly before kick-off. Athenry Youth A’s wearing the maroon home strip while the Athenry Youth B’s donned their green second kit. The game began slowly, both teams attempting to feel their way into the contest. The pressure was more on the A’s I would feel as they were favoured being in the premier division and how they were playing at the moment. As I said before however this was a cup game and all form guides went out the window from the start.
The intensity which the B’s showed seemed to surprise the A’s as they were forced into making errors. Their intent epitomised early on by Phillip Brennan as he stuck vigorously to Ryan Shox forcing him to make a few errors. Chances were at a premium however. After four minutes the A’s has a header just over the bar. Shortly after, the ball came through to Adam Murphy who's shot was just wide of the left bottom corner. Fifteen minutes in came the first opportunity for the B’s and how they did take that opportunity! Good work down their right flank led to a corner. Odhran Monaghan swung in the ball and his corner was met perfectly by the head of Matthew Treacy. It’s difficult to say that they didn’t deserve the lead as they defended well and when one chance arrived it was duly dispatched. The effect of this goal could be felt all around the pitch. The manager of the A’s clearly outraged by the surprise yet deserved lead ordered his subs to warm up.
The A’s sensing the enormity of the task ahead coupled with the immense support for the B’s began to play proper football. The ball was worked well through the middle of the pitch through the feet of Colm Flynn and Ryan Shox. Spurred on by the words of Aaron Flaherty they began to keep the tempo to the levels which had been expected of them from the outset. Just before the end of the half Dean McCann beat two players to put himself through on goal only to hit the woodwork. The half time whistle came at the most inconvenient time for the A’s as they began to build up ahead of steam. Contrastingly it came at the most welcome time for the B’s as they needed to regroup and come back stronger in the second half.
HALF TIME
Some harsh words were said by the Athenry A’s manager as their performance up until this point was less than satisfactory. They made two changes as well. Kieran McCallion came in for Darragh Bergin and Kieran Fox also entered the fray as a substitute for Eoghan Kane. No changes from the other side under the management of Colin Bane and his assistant Mark Lawless however. With the changes seen to by the referee both sides were hyped up once more and the second half was underway.
SECOND HALF
The second half started in an altogether different vain to the first. The A’s knew how much of a disappointing result this would be from their perspective and had added impotence as a result of this incentive. The B’s however were valiant in their attempts at retaining this one goal lead. Particularly Liam Moran and Declan Joyce who were partnered at centre back. With the A’s pushing for that equaliser they were left susceptible to the counter attack as the B’s utilised the pace of Matthew Deacon to great effect at times. With the game being so tight it wouldn’t be long before the ref showed a yellow card as McCallion controversially appeared to elbow Deacon in the face, two more yellows followed but the game didn’t get out of control as both were looking to go through. The pressure was beginning to show however.
The A’s had an abundance of corners at this point in the tie and eventually they were going to come good. This proved the case as Ryan Shox played in a ball which was flicked on, it seemed to be going too far before Kieran McCallion steered it into the box once more where Colm Flynn poked it home. Relief more than anything was felt from all those supporting the A’s. Patryk Woleniuk came off the bench for an injured Odhran Monaghan followed by Liam Moran having to come off in place of Jack Roche due to cramp, telling signs of the performance the captain had put in. An excellent solo effort from Aaron Leggett beating five players before being foiled by Sean Mooney in goals was the last chance of normal time as the referee blew the full time whistle.
EXTRA TIME
Extra time and maybe more was on the cards. A quick pep talk from both management teams before the action resumed. The B’s had a very good chance as Oisin Geoghegan raced through only to be stopped just before he could pull the trigger. End to end this game became as Kieran fox had a rasping drive come off the crossbar. Chances were now coming from either side and the question on everybody’s lips was who would have the nerve to take them. Niko Mpekoa came on for the A’s as, Keith Hardiman was summoned to try and swing the tie the way of the Youth B’s. Their attempts fell on deaf ears however as the A’s went in front. A slick corner routine from two of the subs Kieran McCallion and Kieran Fox led to the ball being poked home once more this time from the right peg of Paddy Briggs. Paddy had worked exceptionally hard throughout the game and undoubtedly deserved this credit. The B’s gave their all in the minutes that were remaining. The score line stayed the same however as the A’s came through a tough match in the end.
AFTERMATH
The match proved an excellent spectacle as the B’s put up an inspiring performance which does not reflect their position in their league. They proved very stubborn opposition as they made life extremely difficult for their counter parts, narrowly avoiding victory on this special day of football. As for the A’s they will know that they could have made life easier for themselves today. Maybe this was due to their lack of game time at the moment or how the B’s set up for the game. No one is to know but they know now that they have to up their level if they want to achieve the league position they feel they are capable of. Man of the Match goes to Matthew Treacy not just for breaking the deadlock but his all-round display at left back. Let’s hope the A team can now go on and lift the Cup.
KIERAN'S FIRST HALF TREBLE HELPS DUMP THE VILLA
ATHENRY 3-2 MOYNE VILLA (u13B gdsl)
A hat trick from Kieran Dumper helped Athenry U13b's on their way to collecting 3 points at home against Moyne Villa on Sat morning 21st Feb.
Heavy rain the previous night made for a heavy pitch for both sets of players, but Athenry started the brighter, with Aaron Cunningham and Martin Fahy combining well to put the Headford team on the back foot. The early pressure led to a corner, which Ian O'Halloran dispatched accurately to the danger area and while the keeper got a touch, Kieran Dumper was on hand to head the ball to the net.
Any breaks from Moyne Villa were dealt with by a composed back four marshalled by the excellent centre pairing of Martin O'Flaherty and Evan Williams. With players from both sides struggling in the conditions, Dumper collected the ball in his own half, went past two and sped down the sideline. Making his way to the box and passing a third, Kieran's initial clever shot was blocked by the keeper, but quick as a flash he returned it to the net. A super individual goal Messi would have been proud of. Moyne villa pressed hard to get back into the game for the final minutes of the first half, but Athenry bravely held on for a 2-0 lead at the break.
Headford brought on 5 subs at half time, and the fresh legs began to count with continued pressure on Athenry. Alex Keogh kept the home team in the game with several excellent saves, while Gavin Lydon and Andrew Coffey worked tirelessly getting a hold of the game in midfield. A good ball up the line from Jack Burke lead to a hat trick from Kieran Dumper and Athenry appeared comfortable and certain of 3 points. However the heavy pitch, an increasing wind and Moyne Villa's bench all conspired to put the home team under considerable pressure for the final 15 minutes. A super goal from the edge of the box brought Headford back into the game and with 3 minutes to go they added a second. There was no third goal though and brave defending from Cathal Flanagan and Bobby Martins along with great holding play from Matthew Bane helped Athenry to all 3 points after a tense finish.
Athenry Team: 1) Alex Keogh 2) Jack Burke 3) Evan Williams 4) Cathal Flannagan 5) Martin O'Flaherty 6) Kieran Dumper 7) Ian O' Halloran 8) Andrew Coffey 9) Gavin Lydon 10) Aaron Cunningham 11) Martin Fahy Subs Matthew Bane for Aaron Cunningham (40')
Bobby Martins for Kieran Dumper ('45)
ATHENRY JOINT TOP AFTER CONVINCING WIN
TUAM CELTIC 0-4 ATHENRY (Senior A)
x2 Harty
x1 O'Driscoll
x1 O.G
Athenry joined Mervue at the top of the Western Hygiene Supplies Premier Division with a comprehensive 4-0 win over Tuam Celtic in Tuam this morning. Athenry started brightly and created a couple of decent chances prior to taking the lead. The first goal came after 15min when the excellent Cathal Fahy created the opening for Alan Harty who continued his excellent goal scoring form with a lovely finish into the top corner. Athenry continued to push on and were denied their second goal a number of occasions by good goal keeping and last ditch defending.
Athenry eventually got the games second but not before Andrew Walsh made a point blank save from Tuam's best move of the game.The second goal came from excellent work down Athenry's right between Dermot O Halloran and Anthony Connolly who played in Cathal Fahy who again set up Alan Harty to score.Athenry were now in control and put the game to bed shortly before half time when Jamie O'Driscoll scored from close range after a move involving Cathal Fahy and Alan Harty. Tuam were finding it increasingly difficult to come to terms with the movement of Athenry's front two and it was Jamie who was on hand to score after the ball got stuck under Alan's feet as he attempted to complete his hat trick.
The second half was just a matter of controlling the tempo for Athenry and not giving the home side any opportunities to get back in the game. This was achieved by and large thanks to the defence remaining compact and organised and with Brian Carrigg controlling matters in front of them. The final goal of the game came by way of an og. A Dan Cunningham corner was headed past his own keeper by Tuam's centre half under pressure from Paddy Quinn.
This was an excellent performance from Athenry who now sit along side Mervue at the top. The coming few weeks sees them play Mervue away and the 4th Round of the Connaught cup. Games will come thick and fast now and Athenry are well prepared for the final third of the season. Special mention to Colm O'Donovan and Andrew Walsh who were part of the Galway District League side that were beaten last night by Wexford. Colm playing the full game plus extra time.
ATHENRY TEAM PERFORMANCE SHINES THROUGH
Athenry through to next round of U13 GFA Cup
x2 Gavin
x1 Lawless
x1 Gray
x1 Rabbitt
The fine weather in Carraroe added to the spectacle of some great phases of play as Athenry shone in their U13 GFA Cup encounter away to Cois Fharraige last Saturday. Athenry who were captained by Conor Whelan controlled the game from the off and their incisive passing play was difficult for Cois Fharraige to contain. With some early penetrating incursions into their opponents penalty area, Athenry started the game with real intent. This early pressure paid off when Eoin Gavin received a ball back from Sean Byrne just outside the box to lob the ball high over the Cois Fharraige goalie, 12 minutes gone. Athenry began to feel this may be their day.
Cois Fharraige responded with a number of telling balls hit over the Athenry back line but James Cummins and Eoin Lawless combined well to see out some threatening breaks. Athenry's positive play was again rewarded by another great goal as Eoin Gavin's sweetly lobbed shot found the net once more. John Gray was proving to be a handful for the Carraroe backs and made many darting runs with the ball at his feet. At 26 minutes Athenry were rewarded another corner on the right and Eoin Lawless positioned himself perfectly to receive the corner ball and drill a powerful and accurate shot clear through a congested Cois Fharraige goal mouth. Athenry enjoyed their oranges at halftime leading the fixture 3-0 up.
It was evident in the first few minutes of the second half that Cois Fharraige were determined to try and get something out of this match. They broke deep into Athenry's half on a few occasions. They got a goal back within 8 minutes of the restart. Athenry were not going to let this one slip and collectively combined to tackle well and push forward with growing regularity. In the 49th minute John Gray found himself in the box and threaded a well placed ball beneath the diving Cois Fharraige goalie, 4-1. Cormac Feeney replaced an effective Paul Mooney in the Athenry goal, and Cormac proceeded to pull off a fantastic save to keep the commanding score line intact. Save of the season!
Mathew Brennan and Conor Rabbitt played great and added to a the solid Athenry back line, Harry Power fitted in very well too. Cathal Yaxley and Dumebi combined excellently with good interlinking play. Another forward move resulted in a penalty with so much growing pressure from Sean Forde and Alex Park proving too much for Cois Fharraige. Conor Rabbitt took responsibility for the spot kick and his self belief was backed up by a well taken side footed shot that found the net for the fifth time.
Athenry enjoyed the journey home though the Connemara countryside reflecting on a great team performance that provided their best win this season. Cois Fharraige 1 Athenry 5
ATHENRY FINISH SEASON STRONGLY
GFA U12 Division 4
Athenry C 2 vs. Cregmore/Claregalway FC C 0
Scorers: Finian Coughlan & Adam Molloy.
It was just not to be, as Loughrea took the league title by two points after the final game of the season. An early score by Finian Coughlan, which was followed by a second by Adam Molloy secured all three points in a hard fought and well earned victory. Daire McCarthy, Eoin Burke, Colm Sweeney and Daire McNeilis all played excellent. This has been a great campaign for a young side, and it looks very positive for their future development. Big Cup game against Furbo next week, fingers crossed for a positive result! Onwards and upwards.
IT'S GR8 FOR ATHENRY U16'S
GFA U16 Division 2
Oughterard 0 vs. Athenry B 8
Scorers: Nathan Healey x4, Szymon Slowiek x2, Daniel Kinneen & Darren Jennings.
Athenry started the game very well, good passing and pressing and were unlucky not to open the scoring earlier, the first came came from Szymon. There was very little trouble for the Athenry defence in the 1st half. Athenry got their second after Nathan Healey got his first of the day. In the second half Athenry continued to dominate the possession with further goals in this half by Darren, Nathan (3) Szymon and a wonder goal by Daniel Kinneen.
A well deserved result, for all the hard work and teamwork put in the game. Big win for the team and great to get a clean sheet thanks to a strong defensive unit.
Team: Morgan Leggett, Christopher Bruke, Liam Egan, Diarmuid Somers, Daniel Kinneen, David Gilhooley, Elliott Langan, Shane Kelly, Nathan Healey, Darren Jennings and Syzmon Slowiek
U10A GIRLS SHOW FOURTITUDE TO WIN
Girls U10 Premier League
Athenry FC 4 vs. Corrib Rangers 1
Scorers: Nina Bodamer x2, Alannah Sweeney x1, Sadbh Brady x1
An excellent performance from all of the team today it was a nervy start but as the game went on they got more into it.
TREBLE FROM BLATHNAID GETS GIRLS UP AND RUNNING
Girls U10 Championship
Athenry B 3 vs. Cregmore/Claregalway FC B 2
Scorer: Blathnaid O'Mahony x3
A good team show today from all of the squad, a hard fought game which could have gone either way. A great win and fantastic start to their league campaign.
U13B UPSET LOCALS IN DROM!
GFA Under 13 Division 2
Salthill Devon B 0 vs. Athenry B 1
Scorer: Colm Sweeney
A gritty display of spirit and determination saw Athenry squeeze out a hard earned victory in Drom. Well on top in the first half, chances fell to Ronan Jennings and Daire McCarthy but none hit the onion bag. Nil all at half time.
Early pressure in the second half with Ian O'Halloran, Ivan Williams and Martin Flaherty controlling things down the middle. It wasn't until the man of the moment Colm Sweeney strike from 25 yards to the top corner that the deadlock was broken. Some stalwart defending in the latter stages from Ivan Power secured the points for Athenry. Good performances by all concerned, a great team win in a place that it is not easy to get a result!
OLD BOYS HIT COROFIN FOR SIX
Athenry 6-1 Corofin galway league
x3 Harty
x2 C.Fahy
x1 O'Donovan
As happens so many times in leagues all over the world and the Galway Premier league is no different, we regularly see players coming back to haunt their former Clubs. On Saturday in Athenry it was the turn of former Corofin players Alan Harty and Colm O'Donovan to turn the screw and send Corofin deeper into relegation trouble. On a day not conducive to playing any kind of attractive football, Athenry started brightly and took the lead inside the first 5 minutes when Gary Forde pounced on a poor kick-out to set up Alan Harty for the opener. Gary Forde injured himself in the build up to that goal and had to be replaced by Cathal Fahy who didn't start due to attending a family christening.
Corofin, to their credit, fought back and got themselves an equaliser when a free kick was headed on behind the home defence and a shot was slotted away nicely past Andrew Walsh in the Athenry goal. Athenry were finding it difficult to create clear cut chances and it took a great Cathal Fahy run to set up Colm O'Donovan to score his first for the club and give the home side a 2-1 advantage at the break. The game was put to bed early in the second half as Cathal Fahy scored two goals in quick succession. The first from a lovely through ball from Paddy Quinn that split the home defence allowing Cathal to round the keeper to slot home. His second came from a penalty after Dermot O'Halloran was pulled back inside the area. Athenry at this stage had brought on Declan Cullen and Brian Murphy as they continued to pile the pressure on the visiting defence. The fifth goal was scored by Alan Harty as he dribbled his way into the area and tucked a lovely effort into the bottom corner. Alan completed his hat-trick and the scoring for the day when he followed a long ball over the top from Packie Byrne to round the keeper and finish off a great days work.
Athenry can be well pleased with the performance and now see themselves within touching distance at the top of the table. Special mention to Tommy Fahy and Pete Gilhooley whose tireless work on the pitch ensured the game went ahead.
FAHY HAT TRICK CLOSES GAP TO THE TOP
ATHENRY 3-2 CORRIB CELTIC Galway League
X3 C.Fahy
A Cathal Fahy hat-trick ensured Athenry maintained their charge towards the top of the table. Athenry closed the gap on those above them after a tough but deserving victory over a well organised Corrib Celtic outfit last Sunday afternoon. On a day when playing conditions were difficult with the heavy pitch both teams adapted themselves well creating early chances. Athenry created their first chance within the first minute when good work between Gary Forde and the returning Colm O'Donovan set up Cathal Fahy who shot over from close range. Corrib Celtic took the kick out quickly and broke up the field to win a corner. From the resulting corner they took the lead as the centre half rose unmarked at the back post to put the away side 1 up.
Athenry tried to get back in the game and two excellent Colm O'Donovan efforts drew great saves from the visiting keeper. As the half time whistle approached Athenry were awarded a penalty. A free kick was swung into the box and Colm was man handled to the ground and the spot kick was awarded. Cathal Fahy duly stepped up and scored. It was a welcome break for the home side who went in level at half time.
Athenry went in front early in the second half when they won a corner on the right hand side. Colm O'Donovan put in a lovely ball that was met by a stooping header from Cathal. Athenry were now 2-1 on front but we're unable to hold on to the lead for too long as a lapse in concentration at the back allowed Corrib Celtic to take a quick free kick which was crossed in and tucked away well from close range. Both teams continued to probe looking for a winner and while Athenry were the more composed team on the ball they found it difficult to break down the Celtic rearguard. The winner and fifth set piece goal of the day came from another corner when the recently introduced Dan Cunningham swung in another corner from the right that Cathal Fahy thankfully bundled over the line. From here to the finish Athenry controlled matters as the midfield worked tirelessly to keep the home side pressed on. Cathal was withdrawn and replaced by Keith Loughnane to add an extra body to the midfield. While a 4th goal was disallowed late on, thankfully it wasn't needed as Athenry won 3-2.
This was a very pleasing result for Athenry as they quietly close in on those above them in the table. They know that if they can sort out one or two defensive issues they can look forward to the challenge of Corofin next Saturday.
DUMEBI GETS THE BALL ROLLING IN THE CUP
U13 GFA Cup
Athenry A 3-0 Cregmore/Claregalway
x1 Abeli
x1 Yaxley
x1 Forde
On a relatively mild and calm morning Athenry u13's stepped out onto a heavy underfoot pitch that was in good condition thanks to Tommy and Peter and all the lads who week in week out ensure the pitches are presented as best they can be and especially so in the middle of winter.
Athenry were able to field a strong team, which was complimented by a strong bench.
The game started with intent and Athenry asserted themselves on the opposition by threading through some well linked up play from midfield to forward positions. The combination of Eoin Gavin (capt) and Dumebi Abeli in centre midfield proved a handful for Cregmore and the ball was frequently moved forward in a positive manner to Cathal Yaxley who had a number of chances early in the game but failed to convert. Cregmore did settle into the game and caused some concern to the Athenry back four, but any developing threats were dealt with in a very composed manner collectively by the Athenry defence. Mathew Brennan was outstanding on the left side and positioned himself superbly to deny any possible incursions down the left side. This robust defending was mirrored by the centre back pairing of James Cummins and Eoin Lawless, Eoin was welcomed back by his team mates for his first competitive game of the season, and has not lost any of the skills and natural ability he possesses that were very evident last season. Conor Rabbitt deserves a mention too for his disciplined performance on the right. Conor Whelan also was beginning to assert himself down the right flank and made some penetrating runs and crosses. John Gray and Sean Byrne on the left side linked up well and Byrne made some telling crosses into the box that began to pile the pressure on Cregmore.
The breakthrough came with some tight control and possession between Dumebi and Eion Gavin, which resulted in Dumbei finding himself in an advanced position and moving forward with pace, he seized the opportunity and drilled the ball into the roof of the net from 20 yards out beating the keeper to the right. 1-0 at half time.
Cregmore had some chances early in the second half. 10 minutes in Cathal Yaxley struck the ball low just inside the box and found the net beyond the stretched Cregmore goalie. 2-0. Sean Forde came off the bench and slotted in very well to the pace of the game and the positive attitude of the Athenry team, Fordie converted at close range to see Athenry go three up. Athenry deserved their win and a great team effort was reflected in the final score. Alex Park and Harry Power proved very effective off the bench and the team was solid throughout. A great result and hopefully a lasting run in the Cup.
HAZELS BRACE LIFTS ATHENRY GIRLS
U16 GIRLS LEAGUE
CRAUGHWELL 1-3 ATHENRY
x1 Anna x2 Hazel
The 1st game of 2015 saw a mighty start for our young u16 girls away to Craughwell. These girls are slowly getting to know each other over the last few years and there certainly was a buzz of comeradery between the two sides. With what had to be the most beautiful crisp afternoon in the last few weeks the girls took to the rather slippery heavy surface full of nervous energy. With a few different events clashing with the game Athenry had to rely on numbers from our u14 girls. Stephanie donned the new goalie gloves ready for action and lucky to be in the end goal with her back to the sun for the first half. Yes I wrote sun! it shone strong and at low eye level for the girls for the entire match.
The game started with a strong attack from Craughwell but was shortly counteracted by Athenry. The pace of the game was slow due to slippery conditions underfoot. It is fair to say that both teams were very evenly matched with nothing to separate them. A lot of centre field action before our right wing broke free, Hazel took the ball and crossed it into Anna McCoy who controlled the ball and continued on through to goal where it was blocked but then taken back again by Anna who eventually kicked the ball into the back of the net. A wonderful goal for the most deserving of new players to the team. The game took a big lift and Craughwell started to attack hard and definitely took their defending up a notch also following Anna’s Goal. It was not long before Craughwell equalised with a super shot chipping our keeper. The girls came in at half time with a pleased and genuine relief that they were in control of the game. Roger just asked them to keep doing what they were doing and score another goal. The mood was enthuastic before heading out for the second half.
Now Athenry had that hard glaring sun in their eyes and had to work hard talking to support each other. It really was a 50/50 game until about 20 minutes in when Hazel intercepted an out going pass by Craughwell in the middle of the park and sailed past two defenders to find herself in front of goal taking a strong strike to the opposite post hitting the back of the net. The girls were delighted and were quick to recover to take on the strong Craughwell’s girls who were well schooled in set plays from kick off. Thankfully it was roll on roll off subs so we could benefit from using fresh legs continuously. Ailsling Sheehan went in backs for Nessa and as she walked in to support and watch the remaining few minutes of the game she said that the back line were under intense pressure with Craughwell throwing everything they had at the Athenry team. Could we really hold out for a win was another comment from the side line but the game was so well matched it was hard to say.
The referee let the girls know there were 2 minutes left and Craughwell dug deep to get the ball down to their end but a strike off the ball hit an Athenry player causing the Athenry girls to gain possession with a minute to go and all of a sudden the ball was passed and it flowed back towards the Craughwell goal, once again with Hazel in full stride with the ball who took a shot on the run and hit the back of the net for the second time in less than 5 minutes. Full time and Athenry were victorious 1-3.
A delighted team took to the dressing room to count up 3 more points to their already existing 5. Not bad for a team that are using this u16 year as their preparation for full u16 next season. 2 wins 1 draw and a mighty loss keeps this team happy to play another league match.
COMFORTABLE WIN SENDS ATHENRY UP THE TABLE
Western Hygiene Supplies Junior Premier Division
St. Patricks 0 Athenry FC 3
Venue: Caherlistrane Scorers: Cathal Fahy x2 Alan Harty x1
Report:
Athenry continued their climb up the Premier Division table with a comfortable 3-0 victory over St Pats in Caherlistrane. Athenry were forced to make 3 changes from their emphatic win over Corrib Rangers 2 weeks previous.Declan Cullen, Dan Cunningham and Brian Murphy came in for Packie Byrne, Dermot O'Halloran and Brian Carrigg who were all unavailable this weekend. Athenry pressed well from the start and had created good chances through Brian Murphy, Cathal Fahy and Dan Cunninghamwithout making a break through. Shortly after surviving a scare at the other end when a speculative long range shot sailed just the wrong side of the post, Athenry went ahead when Cathal got on the end of an excellent move involving Paddy Quinn, Alan Harty and Brian Murphy. Fahy going in bravely between the out rushing keeper and the centre half to score and put Athenry deservedly ahead.
Athenry doubled their lead shortly after the interval. Gary Forde got on the ball and took on the home defence, he evaded the first couple of tackles before being clinically taken down as he was about to score. Thankfully Cathal Fahy tucked away the resulting spot kick to score his 6th goal of the season and put Athenry 2-0 up. Athenry ensured that there was no let up in pressure as Gary O'Donnell, Seamie Crowe and Conor Lally entered the game early in the second half. While they continued to control the game the 3rd goal didn't arrive until the final quarter when a lovely move down the right involving Tony O'Conghaile and Brian Murphy resulted in a beautiful strike from Alan. Athenry had to survive a scare at the other end as Andrew Walsh lost his footing when he was clearing a back pass before recovering excellently to make a fine save and ensuring the 1st clean sheet of the season.
This was a vital 3 points on what was a difficult pitch against a team fighting for survival. The winensures Athenry keep in touch with the leaders as they look forward to next weekend and the clash with NUIG.
SENIOR A HIT LEAGUE LEADERS FOR SIX
Athenry 6-1 Corrib Rangers
x1 fahy, x2 carrigg, x1 o'donnell, x1 o'halloran, x1 o'conghaile
Athenry got their league campaign up and running in no uncertain terms this morning with a comprehensive victory over the current league leaders Corrib Rangers. In what has been a tough start to the campaign Athenry today laid down a marker to the other sides who have ideas on claiming the title. In a frantic opening Athenry could have fallen behind early but for the alertness of goalkeeper Andrew Walsh who came to the home sides rescue with a brave save to deny Rangers early on. (He later brilliantly saved a penalty with the score at 3-1). Corrib Rangers did go ahead when a long ball direct from their keeper beat the home defence and was tucked away neatly to put the away side deservedly ahead. Athenry responded well to going behind and were back on level terms within 2 minutes when Cathal Fahy got on the end of a good cross after good work from Gary Forde and Paddy Quinn. The home side then went ahead when Brian Carrigg neatly tucked away what was his first goal for the club. Athenry doubled their lead close to half time when that man again Brian Carrigg reacted quickest in the box to turn and shoot after the Corrib Rangers keeper had failed to collect a cross.
Athenry went in 3-1 up at the break and soon after the restart went further ahead when they broke quickly and Cathal Fahy crossed for Jamie O'Driscoll who with one touch killed the ball then swivelled to shoot into the corner of the net for a sublime goal. At this stage Rangers were pushing forward and leaving gaps that Athenry were exploiting at will. Another Athenry break away saw the home side score their 5th. Dermot O'Halloran picked the ball up in his own half and raced forward with the ball at his feet. He looked up and with little else on he decided to have a shot at goal which sailed into the roof of the net for a goal worthy of any occasion.Athenry had at this stage had emptied the bench with Dan Cunningham, Gary O'Donnell and Seamie Crowe coming on to ensure there was no let up in pressure on the Rangers rearguard.
Athenry finally got their 6th and final goal of the game through Tony O'Conghaile. They had passed up a few earlier efforts before Tony got to the end of a beautifully struck free kick from Paddy Quinn to hit a first time shot to the back of the net. This was an all round great team performance and showed those that were there the quality and work rate that this squad of players are capable of. Athenry now need to build on this result and win their games in hand to bring them into contention comeChristmas.
MURPHY CAPS OFF SUBLIME PERFORMANCE WITH A BRACE
Athenry FC 3-1 Swinford
x1 McCallion
x2 Murphy
This was a game Athenry had to win following their loss to Galway Hibs on their last outing. Everyone around the team had been saying that they were playing well enough to win but the results had not been going their way thus far.The game in prospect was one against Swinford in the Connaught Shield. Athenry made the trek of around an hour and a half to this desolate spot in the heart of Mayo. There was an air of expectancy to be felt as the Athenry team strutted onto the pitch to warm up before the game. They knew their fortunes were soon to turn and why not today of all days. With both teams focused on the task in mind hoping to win this imperative cup game and progress to the next round we were set for quite an encounter.
The referee called over both captains for the toss and from this moment on the players expressions became stern and determined, both sides were eager to kick off this game. Swinford won the toss and chose to take tip. The game kicked off with both sides probing and prodding, attemping to find a weakness in their opponents armour. The opening encounters were cagey, for this reason neither team were able to retain any significant possession of the ball. Swinford were the first team to mount any kind of attack, the ball easily collected though by the Athenry goalie Sean Mooney on around 10 minutes. This seemed to awaken something inside both teams as they began to play some nice football there after. Athenry were finding some joy down the left side as Kieran Fox had the beating of his man all day long. From a seemingly passive attack Swinford won a corner, this corner should have been dealt with properly but a momentary lapse in concentration on behalf of the Athenry players resulted in Swinfords captain hammering the ball into the back of the net. 1-0 Swinford.
Athenry kept their heads up though knowing that the majority of this game was still to play, plenty of time to swing the momentum in their favour and this was the case as the first half progressed. Ryan Shaughnessy found more possession of the ball and began linking up well with Adam Murphy. Athenry launched another counter attack with the ball ending up on the left wing. Kieran Fox swung in a delicious ball which was headed just over by John McGough. This was a signal of better things to come. Adam and Ryan linked up well again and this time Adam shot just over the bar. With that the first half was upon us, Athenry ended the stronger of the teams but still a goal behind.
Spurred on by a late flurry of good play Athenry looked determined at the start of the second half. Their captain Kieran McCallion got his troops pumped up as they needed an impressive second half to overturn this deficit. And they started off in that fashion it has to be said. They piled on the early pressure and great solo work from Kieran down the left as he beat his man once again and fired a missile of a shot into the top corner. 1-1, game on!! Athenry had the bit between their teeth now and showed the type of football they were capable of. Swinford had very little of the ball in this phase of the game as Athenry looked by far the more threatening of the two teams. The ball came infield to Ryan once more who fed Adam Murphy who casually took the ball around the goalkeeper before dispatching into an empty net on the hour mark. 2-1 Athenry, finally their dominance was showing.
It was essential now that they not get complacent and finish off this game properly. They needed the likes of Aaron Flaherty and Cathal Moran to continue being sturdy at the back as they had been all game. Despite Athenry's best efforts Swinford looked like getting back in the game as it dawned on them the task which was now in front of them. They began to get their key players more in the game as their right winger was a tricky customer and showed this as he made an impressive run only to strike the post. Athenry had 15 minutes to hold out and needed to plumb the depths of their resevoirs to kill off this entertaining encounter. With Swinford looking dangerous it was essential that Athenry kept the ball at this stage when they had it.
They did this as Adam Murphy capped off a sublime performance as he received the ball just inside Swinford's half and powered past several defenders before cleverly lifting the ball over the helpless goalie. 3-1 Athenry. Surely this would be the final result and as it happened it was as the referee sounded the final whistle to joyous scenes from both players and everyone connected to this Athenry team. Quite an eventful but ultimately successful away day for Athenry it can be said.
REFEREE DOESN'T DO ATHENRY ANY FAVOURS IN DRAW
Athenry Senior B’s 1 - 1 Kinvara
Date: 15/11/14 Venue: Kinvara
Scorer: Joey Burke
Athenry Senior B Team
Goalkeeper: Niall Cannon
Defenders: Aidan Fahy, Damien Sweeney, Dermot Parker, Jamie Cronin
Midfielders: Daniel Bane, Colin Bane, Michael McNeilis, Conor Gavin, Barclay Healey
Strikers: Joey Burke
Subs: Martin Ward, Mark Lawless, Oliver Rabbitte, Subomi Etti
Match Report
Athenry’s Senior B’s eighth league game of the season & a must win for the lads to carry over the momentum of their last win but with having a 3 week break it was a big ask. Again a great start by the lads as in their previous games playing flowing football, outplaying their opponents. Playing out from the back it was good to see the team playing the ball through the centre & down the wings with accurate passing. With some very early chances by Michael McNeilis & Joey Burke just wide of the goal, the goal the team had been pushing for finally came to the head of Joey Burke. With a great piece of play involving Michael McNeilis chancing down a ball down the wing & a floating ball into the box from Damien Sweeney saw Joey Burke rise above his marker & headed the ball into Kinvara’s net, one up for the lads.
After a positive team talk by their coach Roger Leggett the second half kicked off. Not long into this half Athenry were awarded several free kicks as the game became a little dirty with some heavy tackles from Kinvara. The ref didn’t seem to get control of them game as the tackles were coming in thick & fast by both teams now as Athenry were hard done by with some of the decisions that went against them. It wasn’t long until Kinvara equalised from a corner that they bundled into the Athenry goal by fouling Athenry’s young keeper but again the ref decided no foul & the goal stood. Unfortunately for Athenry it seemed as in other games I’ve watched that when the other team score their heads drop.
Roger Leggett decided to make changes to the team by taking off Daniel Bane swapping him for Mark Lawless. Athenry were pushing for the winner but this just didn’t come. Having to make two more changes due to injuries to Michael McNeilis (hamstring) & Jamie Cronin (ankle) Subomi Etti & Martin Ward came on. There was not enough time left for the 2 lads to make a real impact on the game. It should have been another win for Athenry for the performance of the team but as in previous games they let it slip.
ITS ALL WHYTE FOR ATHENRY GIRLS
ATHENRY 1-1 COLGA u16 Girls Galway League
x1 WHYTE
Sunday 2nd November saw the start of the u16 girls league and the first game of the season for our girls took place in testing conditions and against a very experienced Colga side. The games 12 O'clock kick off was delayed to accommodate a bad passing shower leaving the ground heavy and slippy underfoot. Colga kicked off and it was clear that they were well schooled in play from the off and the Athenry girls had to work hard in defence but were most definitely up for the challenge. They worked well together and communication and support was strong throughout the team.
Goalkeeper Stephanie Quinn was on the ball and pulled off two amazing saves to keep Athenry in the game. The girls were making some good advances in attack and with 20 minutes gone a chance came for Lauren Whyte to penetrate the Colga defensive line and take a shot at goal, their goalkeeper got her finger tips to it and it rolled off her fingers and slowly over the goal line giving a 1-0 score line to an ecstatic Athenry side and a totally shocked Colga team. Tension mounted from the side line as Colga struggled with Athenry's super strong defence. Aishling Sheehan gave her player no room to use the wings to advance attacks for Colga with our girls enjoying the game and they came in at the half time whistle up a goal. It was great to see them start to believe in themselves. Anna McCoy who had an unbelievable game took a break at this stage and Leah Morrissey took her role.
The 2nd half showed a determined group of girls working hard to hold possession but 10 minutes into the half Colga got the equaliser. Relief was the emotion showed by Colga at this time but Athenry held their heads and stayed working hard at defending. Two more chances for both sides were denied by the great work of both keepers and the match ended in a 1-1 draw. To Colga pure frustration but to Athenry the first point on the board for this young side. For the management team for Athenry this match showed the bright future this team has. The u16 girls league will be a challenge for this young side but they are well used to hard work. Congratulations Girls a well hard earned point for Athenry AFC.
DEPLETED ATHENRY SHOW THEIR METTLE IN DRAW
Athenry 2 - 2 Corrib Celtic galway league
x1 Alan Harty
x1 Gary Forde
Athenry came from two goals down to rescue a deserved point against Corrib Celtic this morning in an entertaining encounter. It was a fixture that was only made last week resulting in half the squad being unavailable due to prearranged commitments. Athenry had only 13 players available today as the plea's to The Galway FA to re-arrange the game fell on deaf ears and Athenry were forced to fulfill the fixture.
Athenry started well and should have been 2 up within the first 15 minutes. Both chances fell to Declan Cullen, the first after good pressure from Athenry led to a Gary O'Donnell effort that was saved, the rebound falling to Declan Cullen but he shot over with the goal at his mercy. The second came after good work between Jamie O'Driscoll and Alan Harty led to Declan being put through again, he did well to hold off the defence but again shot over. Athenry were to pay for those misses shortly after when Corrib Celtic won the ball off Billy Lane and broke quickly to score and put the home side 1-0 up. Athenry pressed hard for the equaliser and created chances through Gary Forde and Damien Rooney but still went in 1-0 down at the break.
Worse was to follow early in the second half when Corrib Celtic doubled their lead from a throw in, the ball was headed on at the near post to the on rushing striker who hit it first time to score. Athenry proved they were up for a battle as they immediately put Corrib Celtic under increased pressure creating chance after chance. The comeback was on after a superb free kick from Alan Harty found the back of the net. Athenry continued to press and with 15 minutes left equalised when Anthony Conneelly sent Billy Lane away down the right who beat his man with ease and put in a delightful cross that was met by Gary Forde at the back post to bring the sides level. Athenry were unable to find a winner but will be happy with the spirit they showed coming from two down to rescue a point in a game where they saw the strength and depth of the squad tested to the limits.
BATTLE IN THE SWAMP
Athenry Senior B’s 2 - 1 Galway Bohs B's
Date: 25/10/14 Venue: The Swamp, Galway - Athenry Scorers: Sean O’Halloran, Conor Gavin
Athenry Senior B Team
Goalkeeper: Jason Ollernshaw
Defenders: Aidan Fahy, Kevin Culkin, Dermot Parker, Keith Doyle
Midfielders: Daniel Bane, Colin Bane, Neil Murphy, Damien Sweeney, Conor Gavin
Strikers: Sean O'Halloran
Subs: Niall Canon, Kieran McCallion, Martin Ward, Mark Lawless, Oliver Rabbitte, Michael McNeilis
Match Report
Galway Bohs had lost home advantage due to some issues so the game was played at the SWAMP. Athenry Senior B’s seventh league game of the season & what a turn around on the pitch, Jason’s goal mouth had a 1ft hole in it approx 6ft from his goal line, with gale force conditions & the rain lashing down this was not the start the team wanted just before kickoff. I was looking forward to watching a good game with a team that were 2 positions above Athenry in the table, how wrong was I! At one point I thought I was at a Kung Fu competition with high flying tackles from Bohs in from all over the pitch, some well worth a sending into Helen & Max @ Soccer AM for next week’s show.
Athenry settled down well with the rain & gale force winds playing into their faces, strong accurate passing was an essential for the team due to the conditions knowing that a weak pass could fall to the opposition with the wind in their favour could leave Athenry chasing the game as the ball was flying around all over the place in the air, Jason has to be on his game this week. Like in previous weeks that I’ve watched there was some good football at times, with on a few occasions the odd bad pass or long ball over the top. It was very tough for the lads this week due to the conditions but as usual from nowhere Colin Bane teaming up with Damien Sweeney with a neat one two to assist Sean O’Halloran having had the only chance on goal with the Bohs keeper just beating him to it. Athenry’s only chance in the first half. A few yellow cards to both teams as things were getting a little heated out there but lucky enough half time couldn’t have came any quicker.
After the teams half time talk with Roger Leggett the lads were looking forward to getting out for the 2nd half now with the wind in their favour.Not to be disappointed an opportunity came along after Daniel Bane crossed the ball from the wing for their striker Sean O’Halloran who headed the ball into the back of the net to make it 1 up to Athenry. Athenry had the Bohs rattled as they started arguing amongst themselves giving Athenry an advantage in which they wasted no time adding another goal from once again Daniel Bane crossing the ball in from near the corner flag having taken another late tackle from Bohs players. This time the ball went into the back of the net from one of their up & coming younger players Conor Gavin who worked hard out on the wing all game. A well deserved reward for the youngster.
With Roger making the difficult decision each week of whom to substitute this week it was Neil Murphy & Keith Doyle substituted for Mark Lawless & Martin Ward. With fresh legs on the pitch the 2 lads worked hard for the last 20 minutes or so with Mark playing as an attacking midfield & Martin up front as a lone striker. Within no time at all Martin made a couple of chances which was very promising to see from him. With Mark taking a few heavy challenges from Bohs players (one of them taking him cleanly out with a very late tackle) you could see the team pushing for another goal. With Colin Bane having worked relentlessly again in the middle of the park this week a free was given against Athenry whilst Colin needed attention having taken a heavy tackle. The Bohs then pulled one back with only 7 minutes left of the game left but Athenry held out in a somewhat ill tempered game at times to win.
A well deserved victory from the lads, a hard battled game with more to come from the team before the end of the season. Only 3 games away from the top of the table lads keep it going we want promotion for 2015/2016.
FAHY FINDS FORM IN WINDSWEPT ABBEY
ST BERNARDS 2 -3 ATHENRY FC galway league
x2 FAHY
x1 CULLEN
Athenry got their first league win of the season on Sunday morning after a hard fought but deserved 3-2 win over St Bernard's.
Athenry took the lead within the first minute when the first attack of the game led to a corner. Packie Byrne met the corner with a well won header that fell to Cathal Fahy who turned well to finish and put Athenry 1-0 ahead. On what was a very blustery morning, St Bernard's responded well and with the wind at their backs put the Athenry defence under pressure. They equalised with a goal direct from a free kick that beat the despairing dive of Andrew Walsh. The goal shook Athenry and it took them a few minutes to compose themselves but when they did they began to play the kind of football they are well capable of. Athenry deservedley re-took the lead when great work from Alan Harty set up Cathal Fahy, who crossed for Declan Cullen who tucked away a lovely finish to put Athenry 2-1 up. The half time whistle blew with Athenry well on top and disappointed not to have added to their lead.
The second half started with St Bernard's making a couple of changes and they equalised again with one of their first attacks when a ball crossed from the left was met by the sub that was introduced who finished well to level things up at 2-2. The second half continued with both sides giving as good as they got but Athenry looking the more composed and the ones more likely to find another goal. The fifth goal of the game and what proved to be the winner for Athenry came when Cathal Fahy met an excellently delivered Dermot O'Halloran free kick to head Athenry into the lead for the third time. Athenry lost both Jamie O Driscoll and Gary Forde to injury during the second half and with the introduction of Brian Murphy, Gary O'Donnell together wiith Conor Lally Athenry continued to press on looking for a fourth. Thankfully another goal wasn't required as the Athenry defence dealt with whatever threat St Bernard's posed and the game finished with Athenry gaining a valuable 3 points and their 1st win of the campaign.
Onwards and upwards..
Athenry Senior B’s 2 - 2 Colemanstown
Date: 18/10/14 Venue: Raheen Pitch Athenry
Scorers: Sean O’Halloran, Daniel Bane.
Athenry Senior B Team
Goalkeeper: Jason Ollernshaw
Defenders: Kevin Culkin, Kieran McCallion, Keith Doyle, Aidan Fahy.
Midfielders: Barclay Healey, Colin Bane, Daniel Bane.
Strikers: Kieran Barrett, Sean O'Halloran, Joe Burke.
Subs: Martin Ward, Diarmuid Flaherty, Conor Gavin, Mark Lawless, John McGough, Neil Murphy.
Match Report Kieran Barrett’s testimonial........
Athenry Senior B’s again had a great start as in their previous games that I’ve watched playing sharp passing football outplaying their opponents in key areas of the pitch. Playing from the back the team played the ball through the centre sometimes with accurate passing, balls were also being played down the wings sometimes with no-one there chasing towards the oppositions goal.
Athenry were very unlucky with an unfortunate back pass to their keeper that was underweighted allowing Colemanstown to take advantage burying the ball in the back of the net to take the lead.
Athenry then got one back from Sean O’Halloran, after Joey Burke missed out in front of goal 2 or 3 times with Colin Bane having a great chance, first saved by their goalkeeper only to put the rebound over the bar as it came back to him quickly. Athenry’s Captain Barclay shortly afterwards was substituted for Diarmuid Flaherty due to a pulled hamstring. A solid performance overall for half time.
Roger Leggett gave the half time team talk as the heavens opened as the 2nd half kicked off about 10 minutes late. Not long into this half you could see that both teams were trying to get the winning goal which fell to Colemanstown due to a defensive error for Kieran McCallion just outside their 18 yard box, 2-1 to Colemanstown and game on.
Athenry were awarded a free kick which Joey Burke stepped up to take with a well placed ball into the box but no-one was there to finish it as all around the 6 yard box was crowded.Substitute Diarmuid Flaherty had been playing with a knock on his ankle but couldn’t run it off and was then substituted himself for Neil Murphy in a defensive midfield role.
Eventually the goal came for Athenry that they had been chasing for a long time through Daniel Bane. Having picked the ball up with a direct pass into the oppositions half from Colin Bane & with what we all know he can do when in space a launching left foot shot 30 yards out fired the ball into the top left cornergiving Colemanstown's keeper no chance of stopping it.
Manager Leggett decided to make changes looking for the 3 points with 10 minutes left of the 2nd half by substituting Kieran Barrett for John McGough. Kieran having a very good final game running his little legs off for Athenry B’s.
Both teams chased for the winner but overall I think 2-2 draw was a fair result, as Athenry just couldn’t finish their chances.An enjoyable game with Athenry playing some attractive football on the floor, the long ball over the top doesn’t work for them!
Good luck Kieran from all the senior B team.
AWAY DAY CUP HEARTACHE FOR ATHENRY U18'S
GALWAY HIBERNIANS A 3-2 ATHENRY A Connacht Cup u18
x1 McGough
x1 Kieran Fox
Athenry Team:
Goalkeeper-Sean Mooney
Defenders-Cathal Moran/Darragh Bergin/Kieran McCallion/Eoghan Keane/Aaron Flaherty/Jack Leech
Midfielders-Sean Fitzsimmons/Ryan O’Shaughnessy/Patrick Briggs/John McGough/Colm Flynn
Forwards-Adam Murphy/John Ward/Kieran Fox/Sean Keogh
Match Report
The grass was moist,the atmosphere tense and the 2 teams were ready. Both teams were on the pitch for the scheduled 11 o'clock kick off, ironing out any kinks to execute a flawless performance in this important cup tie. Athenry captain, Kieran McCallion won the toss and chose to kick off.The referee blew his whistle and the mind games were over as the real game began.
The opening minutes were cagey with neither side able to gain substantial possession of the ball. Hibs began to string a few passes together and had the first goal attempt in the 7th minute. From then, both sides settled down and found the required composure. With Aaron Flaherty leading from the back, the pendulum swung in Athenry’s favour. Athenry had a few half chances but the chance that broke the deadlock wasn’t far away.
Athenry were keeping possession well around the centre of the pitch when the ball came to Ryan O’Shaughnessy. With the vision we are accustomed to seeing from him, he pinged an inch perfect ball across the pitch.The ball was met with impeccable timing by John McGough who converted into an empty net. John collided with the keeper in the process and lay on the ground for a few moments with Athenry players looking on anxiously. Thankfully he was able to continue and he was pivotal again as Athenry extended their lead.
A perfect through ball down the right channel by Adam Murphy picked John out and he found the head of Kieran Fox who made it 2-0 with the last meaningful play of the first half.
The second half began much the same as the first with both sides feeling their way into the contest.For Athenry it was essential to maintain their high tempo and keep their 2 goal advantage but Hibs had a renewed hunger and the home fans were restless. The game opened up and both sides had chances. On the hour mark Athenry had a warning as a goalbound shot from a corner was deflected on to the post.Time was pressing but Hibs were progressively more dominant and with 10 minutes left a half-clearance from another corner fell to the Hibs forward who rifled the ball home.
The dying minutes were tense and Athenry were putting themselves under pressure as they failed to retain possession. In hindsight, they lacked the guile to take the ball into safe areas of the pitch. With 3 minutes left, Hibs were awarded another free in a dangerous area. A quality delivery allowed the tallest Hibs forward to power in a header at the back post. Athenry were visibly deflated as their 2 goal lead had evaporated before their eyes. Onwards and upwards, extra time was upon us and both teams had a point to prove.
Athenry had to find reserves of energy from somewhere. Disaster!! Another controversial refereeing decision resulted in a Hibs goal. Athenry didn’t roll over though and tried to find an equaliser.They created chances with Kieran McCallion’s “hand of god” goal rewarded with only a yellow card. This epitomised Athenry’s desperate attempts to salvage the game which came to nothing when the final whistle went. The end result was not a reflection on the game as a whole. Hibs were the winners today but on a different day the result could have gone the other way.
The signs are very promising for Athenry based on this performance and if they continue like this the results will follow.
WALSH DENIES CHAMPIONS AT MOANBAUN
ATHENRY 2-2 MERVUE UNITED galway senior premier division
x1 FORDE
x1 C.FAHY
Athenry drew 2-2 with Mervue on Saturday in their 3rd league game of the season. Despite starting confidently Athenry went behind when Mervue opened the scoring in the 1st half with a goal from a header at the back post after a cross into the box from Barry Moran. While both teams continued to play attractive football chances were at a premium for the remainder of the 1st half with defences on top.
Athenry lost Seamie Crowe to injury shortly before half time and he was replaced by Gary Forde. Forde drew Athenry level shortly after the break after Dermot O'Hallorans initial shot fell to Gary who scored from a wonderful strike from outside the box. Athenry were now on top and pushing for a second when Mervue broke well and scored their second despite a hint of offside.
Athenry responded well to going behind and continued to create chances with Gary Forde and Billy Lane going close before being awarded a penalty when Jamie O'Driscoll was tripped inside the box. Cathal Fahy stepped up and confidently scored to tie up the game at 2-2.
Both teams continued to push for a winner and Mervue were awarded a dubious penalty when Paddy Quinn was adjudged to have handled the ball with the game going into injury time. Barry Moran took the spot kick but justice was done as Andrew Walsh dived to his right to make a fantastic full length save.
The final chance of the game fell to Athenry and Declan Cullen. After good work from Willie Carr, Cathal Fahy crossed for Declan who rose above the defence but unfortunately he was unable to hit the target from 6 yards.
ATHENRY SUCCUMB DESPITE BARCLAYS PERFORMANCE
Athenry Senior B’s 2 - 4 Cregmore/Claregalway
Date: 20/09/14 Venue: Raheen Pitch Athenry
Scorers: Colin Bane, Submoi Etti
Athenry Senior B Team Line Up
Goalkeeper: Jason Ollernshaw
Defenders: Conor O'Grady, Niall Tomas, Aidan Fahy, Jamie Cronin
Midfielders: Barclay Healey, Diarmuid Flaherty, Colin Bane
Strikers: Daniel Bane, Sean O'Halloran, Joe Burke
Subs: Kieran Barrett, Alberto Cadiz, Stephen Callanan, Kevin Culkin, Subomi Etti, Kieran McCallion, Martin Ward
Match Report
Athenry’s Senior B’s fourth league game of the season and again a great start by the lads as in their previous games playing flowing football, sharp passes and outplaying their opponents. Playing out from the back it was entertaining to see the team playing the ball through the centre & down the wings with accurate passing just missing out in front of goal 2 or 3 times. The only 2 chances their opponents had from set play were cleared of the line by Jamie Cronin. A solid performance overall as the whistle blows up for half time. After a team talk by their coach Roger Leggett the second half kicked off. Not long into this half Athenry were awarded a free kick just outside their opponent’s 18 yard box. Joey Burke stepped up with a well placed free kick, bang on target with plenty of power behind it causing their keeper trouble, which Colin Bane raced into the loose ball to bury it into the goal, Athenry 1 up.
Unfortunately for Athenry within the re-start 2 easy goals were scored by their opponents in quick succession, it seemed as if Athenry had switched off. The coach decided to make changes 10 minutes into the second half by 2 sub’s Sean O'Halloran & Jamie Cronin off &
Kevin Culkin & Subomi Etti on. These changes seemed to work for a while as Athenry were pressing their opponents back into their own half. With a cracking piece of play from Barclay Healey & Colin Bane rewarding Athenry with their equaliser with a tap in from Subomi Etti making the score line 2 all.Athenry’s captain Barclay Healey rallied the team for the winner but unfortunately an opposing fluke goal via a deflection from their opponents beat Athenry’s goalie only just into the top corner of Athenry goal.
Athenry seemed then to have their heads down after this for the last 10 minutes of the game which gave Cregmore/Claregalway the opportunity to score an easy fourth. A number of individual solid performances in goal, midfield & forward, the oldest player on the pitch Barclay Healey worked hard to win the ball back when he lost it & ran his socks off until the final whistle. Overall an enjoyable game, Athenry played some attractive football on the floor, the long ball over the top doesn’t seem to work for them. I'm sure a few more games under their belt & the winning streak will return to the Senior B’s.
Good luck for the rest of the season lads.
HOSPITALITY NOT EXTENDED TO PITCH
ST PETERS 3-1 ATHENRY (x1 O'Driscoll)
McCarthy Park Athlone (pre season friendly)
Athenry Seniors played St Peters of Athlone in an afternoon friendly at McCarthy Park on Sunday 10th August and despite a torrential downpour just before kick off the pitch was in ideal shape for the ensuing game.
With Athenry beginning the game with wing backs it was St Peters boasting a host of League of Ireland experience in their starting XI and management team who took the initiative and powered into a two nil lead with the extended pre season that the hosts have been undergoing bringing dividends as Athenry's defence came under increasing pressure as the game went on and St Peters fitness and physicality began to show.
Despite this Athenry hit back with an opportunistic goal from Jamie O'Driscoll to bring the deficit back to one and it was perhaps no wonder that the Athenry management team protested the St Peters next goal of the day in the first half as it looked a very easy offside to call as the referee incredulously pointed to the centre circle as the hosts went 3-1 up.
With an unchanged Athenry side going out for the second half it took a while for the visitors to find their feet as once again St Peters came forward with young Danny Campion of St Peters (ex SD Galway) almost capping off a mazy dribble with a superb goal that would have been applauded by both sides had it gone in.
With Paddy Quinn & Brian Murphy starting to make things happen on the pitch for Athenry in the last quarter of the game, the visitors began to exert their influence more and more as the game entered its latter stages and play more cohesively as a unit and create more chances before the referee blew the final whistle to end a game that will have given the Athenry management a few more pointers to how their season will progress.
Athenry perhaps wont face this quality of opposition week in week out in the Galway League but it was an excellent test for them and although it took a while for Athenry to get going in Paddy Quinn they have a player who never stops running, never stops imparting advice to players around him and never gives up on the pitch even when things are going against the team. We look forward to the next match.
Athenry Team- darragh murphy, packie byrne, damien rooney, dermot o'halloran, conor lally, brian murphy, ryan shaughnessy, seamie crowe, jamie o'driscoll, paddy quinn, declan cullen Subs- gary o'donnell, patric evason, martin ward, aidan fahy
ARCHIVED MATCH REPORTS 2013/14
EVASON ROCKET SHOOTS DOWN HIGH FLYING HIBS
ATHENRY 3-1 GALWAY HIBERNIANS galway league
x2 EVASON
X1 CULLEN
Athenry Senior 'A' brought down the curtain on their Galway premier league campaign with a well deserved and outstanding performance against second placed Galway Hibernians at Moanbaun on Thursday evening. The real pity is that a team that is finally finding some mojo to their latest performances have no more games to play!
From the very first minute a driving O'Donnell run at pace had Hibs scrambling to cover and an excellent Aidan Fahy cross on 10 minutes could have brought dividends if someone had connected with it. Then on 11 minutes with Athenry taking the initiative Paddy Quinn had a shot which was repulsed and Athenry attacked again this time the ball was put back into the box with Evason connecting and heading home in a crowded box to give the home side the lead on 13 minutes. And it got even better for the home side on 20 minutes when an ever confident Conor Lally found Declan Cullen with an exquisite pass who ran past the last line of the Hibs defence to finish with a sublime chip over the on rushing keeper to take Athenry 2 nil up to send the assembled crowd delirious! However this euphoria was shortlived as Hibs mounted a counter which resulted in Athenry giving away a penalty to Hibs which they scored to make it 2-1 sending keeper Murphy the wrong way in the process.
Quinn went close again when shooting wide on 25 minutes from another Athenry corner and Hibs had an excellent chance on the half hour but the forward could only skew his shot wide, the game was another good one for the spectator as the match developed with Ryan Shaugnessy having a terrific battling performance in central midfield and Kieran McCallion extremely effective at left back. Another corner for Athenry and Evason went close with a deflected header just wide then another lovely move with Lally taking his time to tee up his shot and it narrowly fizzing over the Hibs bar from some 25 yards out. It was relentless pressure with another attacking move just before half time which saw Evason receive the ball some 30 yards out and like Lally before him he balanced himself and hit a powerful drive which screamed into the net giving the Hibs keeper no chance at all to make it 3-1 and give Athenry the confidence to go again in the second half. It must be noted that for the entire first half with the digression of the penalty aside the back four of Aidan Fahy, Kineen, O'Halloran and McCallion had provided the firm foundation for the performance so far allowing the Athenry forwards and wingers to attack at will and with the ever maturing Shaughnessy like a terrier patrolling the centre and indeed bossing the visitors midfield it all looked good going into the turn around.
The second half kicked off with the two sides really going for it in attack and counter attack with the Hibs number nine going close again on 47 minutes and Shaughnessy of Athenry also just missing the target with a shot on 55 minutes, when Hibs did get in close Paddy Quinn cleared off the line and Declan Cullen was unfortunate not to get a penalty decision from the overly fussy official on 56 minutes when getting clipped in the opposition box while on another of his runs into space. With another 25 minutes remaining Athenry brought on top scorer Cathal Fahy which is an indication that Athenry seem to have uncovered a few gems this season through the necessity of blooding some players who may not have gotten their chance otherwise. On 72 minutes sub Fahy's free sailed over the bar from out wide and Hibs obliged by doing the same on 75 minutes as the game entered a quieter phase as both sides tried to save their energy for the final few minutes remaining. On 83 minutes a Gary O'Donnell chance flew just over and another sub John McGough had another chance on 85 minutes which went just wide with Dermot O'Halloran on another one of his forays forward shooting just over the bar which when your team is 3-1 up wastes a bit more time. The final few minutes saw Athenry keep possession and see out the game quite comfortabley to gain a decent win against a team that was itself having a strong push up the table in recent months.
Athenry Team - darragh murphy, aidan fahy, dermot o'halloran, ronan kineen, kieran mccallion, patric evason, ryan shaughnessy, paddy quinn, conor lally, gary o'donnell, declan cullen Subs declan egan, mark lawless, cathal fahy, john mcgough, daragh bergin
LOUGHNANE PERSISTENCE PAYS OFF
ATHENRY 2-2 MERVUE UNITED galway league
x1 LOUGHNANE
x1 C.FAHY
Sometimes with the best will in the world you go into games with little or no expectation of getting a result and sometimes you just want to be competitive, it was with this latter thought in mind that most of the assembled fans approached the visit of Galway League champions Mervue United to Moanbaun. With the team set up to attack it was a bold move from the Athenry management to counter a free flowing Mervue side fresh from being crowned league winners.
With the game kicked off it was immediately apparent that this rejigged Mervue Utd side can play football and they were on the offensive straight away with an alert Darragh Murphy saving on 3 minutes and an excellent counter came on 6 minutes as Cathal Fahy laid the ball on to Lally who in turn found Quinn whose shot was saved well by the Mervue custodian, this really was end to end straight from the off with Athenry keeper Murphy tipping away another Mervue attack and with Lally going close on 11 minutes it was game on with yet another Murphy save on 13 minutes and a powerful drive from a Mervue forward which sailed over the bar. With Athenry now making maximum use of the width of the pitch Loughnane was having an altogether excellent game in midfield combining well with Evason who layed the ball into his path to get the return and set off over the half way line which was stopped by a despairing tackle from ex Athenry player Seamie Crowe to concede the free to set up another Athenry attack. Mervue knew they were in a game and their frustrations came to the fore as firstly a combination of a Murphy save and an O'Halloran clearance off the line was quickly followed by an Aidan Fahy defensive header flicked off his own Athenry bar and the follow up goal was clearly ruled offside much to the chagrin of the Mervue management.
Again the visitors attacked and should really have scored with the unfortunate Mervue striker shooting over from 10 yards and with an excellent flowing move which saw O'Halloran feeding the ball to Lally to Quinn who got his shot off on 33m the game was finely balanced and exciting for everyone watching. Then with just over 7 minutes to half time another Mervue attack saw a weighted ball into the box and as the Mervue striker went to follow up the incoming ball a push was spotted and the referee had no hesitation in pointing to the spot with the resultant penalty taker sending Murphy the wrong way to give Mervue the lead going into half time.
Athenry came out for the second half with renewed gusto having matched the visitors so far and it was on 49 minutes with the ball being shielded by Crowe in the Mervue box that Loughnane took one 'bite' then a second and his third challenge managed to dispossess Crowe and he slotted home with a sliding challenge to enhance this young players growing reputation in recent games. With the scores now at parity Athenry kicked on again with Quinn going close with a shot across the goal on 58m and with an excellent run from substitute Shaugnessy almost latching onto a ball into the Mervue box it looked like Athenry may have a good day after all. With Quinn and Lally combining well up front it was an unfortunate set piece cheaply given away that proved the home sides undoing as Mervue took the lead 2-1 with a despairing Murphy trying to cover the free kick which in fairness was struck sweetly giving the young keeper little chance. On 75 minutes Murphy showed excellent reflex's when tipping over a good strike and launched another punt up field from his kick out, with the ball coming back almost immediately with Mervue attacking quickly the visitors got a corner and with the resultant corner cleared O'Halloran latched onto the ball and went on whats becoming a trademark 30 yard run with no Mervue player keeping up with him passing to Cathal Fahy as he ran into the oppositions penalty area and Athenry's top goalscorer slotted home amid wild celebrations from the home crowd. With the game not yet over both teams really went for it and much to Athenry's relief the post saved them on 83 minutes with the ball being cleared by a grateful defence. With the final whistle blown both teams congratulated each other on a great game of football with the technical ability on both sides clear to see, its this level of performance that Athenry showed earlier on in the season and seem to be regaining on the run in and with the new players giving a real strength in depth to the squad this correspondent is really looking forward to the last league game against Hibs on thursday.
Athenry Team - darragh murphy, aidan fahy, ronan kineen, dermot o'halloran, kieran mccallion, patric evason, keith loughnane, paddy quinn, gary o'donnell, cathal fahy, conor lally, Subs- mark lawless, ryan shaughnessy, declan egan
THREE MINUTES OF MADNESS UNDO ATHENRY
ATHENRY 1-2 ST BERNARDS galway league
x1 CULLEN
You can always give excuses for results of matches but Athenry should never have really lost this match with the sheer amount of possession they enjoyed especially in the second half were they really did lay siege to the St Bernards goal. With the match barely started Kieran McCallion hit the bar on 3 minutes and Declan Cullen shot wide straight after and this pressure endured until a breakaway down the centre of midfield saw a Bernards lobbed effort bypass the Athenry defence and fall into the net over Murphy's flailing arms. This setback was followed barely 2 minutes later as a clearly rocked Athenry failed to deal with another St Bernards strike which was hit through a crowded box and deflected of the unfortunate Evason to make it number two for the Abbeyknockmoy men. This galvanised Athenry who immediately went on the attack with Cullen heading over from an O'Donnell cross and culminated in Athenry getting a goal back with Cullen netting on 33 minutes to bring hope to the home side. With Athenry powering forward at every moment for the remainder of the half with their defence now standing firm it was St Bernards who were the happier side to see the half time whistle.
Second half and game on as Athenry attempted to get another goal with a Rooney inswinger flashing past the oppositions goal with no one getting on the end of it, followed by a Cullen strike which tantalisingly bounced just short of the line before being cleared to safety. On 60 minutes O'Donnell fired over the bar from sub Cathal Fahy's immaculate pass and Conor Lally's cross just eluded Mark Lawless and it continued in this vein with St Bernards packing their box, with yet another dangerous O'Donnell through ball to Lawless which ran just ahead of him only to be cleared once again. With Lally shooting wide on 77m and Dermot O'Halloran snuffing out a St Bernards counter attack with a powerful sliding challenge as the game progressed it was all Athenry. This was further emphasized with a mazy run by the aforementioned O'Halloran who went past one player then another, then another for good measure in his efforts to get a goal back.
As the final minutes ticked down another shot was well held by the St Bernards keeper and the referee called time with no injury time played despite endless time wasting by the St Bernards goalkeeper who seemed to take an age retrieving the ball from behind his net despite a couple of emergency overage ball boys rectifying the situation late on in the game!
What to take from the game? Well apart from the few minutes where the visitors scored Athenry were the better team both in terms of possession and territory but this has been seen before even in the professional game where these stats dont mean you will win the game, you really need to get shots on target and get them in the onion bag!!! Athenry just didn't seem to be able to break down the St Bernards defence to put the keeper under enough pressure even though they were on top for the majority of the game. Another thing to note if your an Athenry supporter on a somewhat more positive note is that there are a lot of good young players that are vying for first team places and with players such as Murphy, O'Halloran & Evason (all under 20) with 50+ games between them this season and the likes of Shaugnessy & McCallion in the wings the real experience is being gained for next seasons push which from a personal viewpoint actually looks quite good if the nucleus of the team can be kept together.
Athenry Team - darragh murphy, aidan fahy, ronan kineen, dermot o'halloran, patric evason, conor lally, gary o'donnell, kieran mccallion, damien rooney, john mcgough, declan cullen Subs declan egan, ryan shaughnessy, mark lawless, daragh bergin, cian burke
NUIG EDGE IT BUT ONLY JUST
ATHENRY 0-1 NUIG galway league
In a game that saw the unusual sight of both teams lining up on the pitch with no substitutes on a Champions League night it must be said that this game could so easily have offered Athenry the opportunity to get points to move up the table if they had a full complement to choose from.
With conditions good it was NUIG who came out of the blocks quicker and with a free kick going close they set out their intentions early on but as Athenry eased themselves into the game they became more of a threat despite their attacking edge being somewhat blunted by one of their forward line carrying a knock from a previous game. Conor Lally's thumping shot cannoned off the post from close in on 11 minutes which represented Athenry's first serious attack on goal after excellent approach play by O'Donnell and this was followed by a Paddy Quinn free which went wide on 18 minutes. Again NUIG came forward and Murphy made a good save on 26 minutes with NUIG blazing over the bar almost immediately from another attack when close in on 27 minutes when they looked certain to score. With Athenry's defence holding firm for now it was left to Declan Egan who made an excellent sliding challenge to win possession to thwart another attack but this was all undone by a moment of hesitation in the Athenry defence on 36 minutes with the resultant 'cleared' ball bobbling across the Athenry box only to be tapped into the goal by a grateful NUIG player who thought it was his birthday!
Into the second half and a disappointed Athenry attempted to get back into the game with Lally who was excelling in the centre of the park shooting from another O'Donnell pass and Quinn going close on 56 minutes, with O'Donnell going wide on 57 minutes this flurry of Athenry attacking looked like it may bring something from the game but with NUIG going close yet again it certainly looked lights out when the visitors got a penalty with another attack down the left followed by a brief altercation where yellow cards where shown to both sets of players involved in the penalty. With a well struck penalty towards the keepers bottom left of his goal it looked a goal all the way until a Murphy outstretched glove turned the ball away at the last minute to deny NUIG, an excellent save which was compounded by another excellent punch away in the 73rd minute as NUIG took the initiative once again with a clearly tiring Athenry but once again another attack was stopped as first Evason got a crunching tackle in then sent Lally on his way once more and then Kineen setting up another counter attack down the middle with a pass to a forward running Left Back Evason who passed to Lally only for the excellent NUIG keeper to save from the resultant shot from O'Donnell who once again was playing well.
With the light fading now it was all NUIG for the last 10 minutes as attack after attack was sent against the Athenry defence with Fahy being asked to do sterling work as they came down his flank again and when Athenry did attempt to break out they just couldn't keep it long enough in the last third due to tiredness and an clearly injured Declan Cullen who bravely battled on. As the game came to its final conclusion it must be noted that despite the sloppy goal conceded there really wasn't anything between these two teams on the night. Going forward Athenry were always going to struggle with the ever busy Mark Lawless having to do most of the running and Conor Lally was excellent in the middle of the park and special note must go to Declan Egan who showed technically what a good soccer player he is with some nice touches despite the physical nature of the game, but perhaps Darragh Murphy's penalty save was the defining moment of this game despite the goal conceded as it showed he is maturing as an excellent keeper for the future.
Athenry Team- darragh murphy, damien rooney, ronan kineen, aidan fahy, patric evason, conor lally, paddy quinn, declan egan, gary o'donnell, mark lawless, declan cullen
ATHENRY THROUGH IN FEISTY AFFAIR
ATHENRY 4-3 GALWAY HIBERNIANS michael byrne cup quarter final
x2 fahy
x1 o'donnell
x1 quinn
A tense nervous game that saw Athenry go behind after only 11 seconds! Only to recover their poise and win with a Paddy Quinn goal in the final stages of the second half of extra time.
With conditions perfect for football this was always going to be a tense game with a Galway Hibernians side that has seen a significant improvement in results recently having beaten Athenry 3-1 in the league only a few weeks ago. With the game barely kicked off a lack of concentration by the home side saw Hibs go straight down the middle of the pitch through Athenry's last line of defence Darragh Murphy to slot home to give them the perfect start to this game. With this wake up call it took nine minutes for Athenry to get a Quinn header on target and with Hibs asking lots of questions on the pitch it took an organsational change on 20 minutes with both wingers swapped before Athenry really threatened the visitors goal albeit with immediate effect. With O'Donnell now wide on the right a Gary Forde run and cross was met perfectly by Cathal Fahy to slot home from just inside the box on 22 minutes to bring his tally into the 20's for the season. With the match really now becoming an end to end game a few Athenry chances came in quick succession with a Quinn long range shot sailing over the bar on 29 minutes to show that Athenry weren't afraid to shoot from range and with Darragh Murphy punching clear from a dangerous Hibs cross to send the ball upfield another Quinn shot was well saved by the Hibs keeper.
With O'Donnell shooting wide on 30 minutes another goal from either side could come at any moment and it was the home side who got that bit of luck as a quick Paddy Quinn pass to Fahy was converted as Fahy's drive went under the Hibs keeper who despite his protestations the ball had gone over the line to send Athenry 2-1 up. With the game going into injury time in the first half it was left to Athenry's custodian Murphy to deal with a succession of corners which he abley dealt with to see out the half.
The second half saw Hibs take the game to Athenry with a more physical approach and with the visitors now getting a major foothold in midfield Athenry were still able to attack with a few close efforts the game was evenly balanced and with a harsh free kick awarded against Athenry just outside their box, Hibs brought the game back to 2-2 with a floated free kick and a header on 57 minutes but just like last week a quick reply within a minute was reward for their never say die attitude. Straight from the kick off Athenry were awarded a free kick and a Forde free was flicked into the net by an excellent O'Donnell to take the lead again to 3-2. With the match once again seeing Hibs attacking and the referee finding difficulty to control the match it was former Athenry & ex Galway United player Ollie Keogh who was representing Hibs best chance of getting back into this game with two great runs only to be snuffed out by O'Halloran & Kineen. With fresh legs now on the pitch for Athenry the game ebbed and flowed now and again it was Keogh whose drive was saved by Murphy on 81 minutes and then with Murphy punching clear on 82 minutes the resultant punt back into the box saw Galway Hibs finish to equalize. With it looking like Hibs now in the driving seat to see off Athenry a late tackle saw the Hibs number 6 rightly sent off and Athenry saw out the half to get ready for extra time.
Extra time kicked off and a Forde cross on 92 minutes gave Lawless a chance to finish but it was blocked by a defender and with Hibs blazing over the bar from just outside the box the first half of extra time saw little in the way of football but more tough work for the referee. 2nd half extra time of another ten minutes began were the last half had finished with more tough challenges and chances by both sides wide or over, then with 4 minutes left before the dreaded penalties a Conor Lally pass through a crowded box saw Man Of The Match Quinn latch onto the ball to send Athenry into the semi final of the Michael Byrne Cup.
ATHENRY TEAM - darragh murphy, damien rooney, dermot o'halloran, ronan kineen, keith loughnane, gary o'donnell, cathal fahy, gary forde, gary o'donnell, conor lally, paddy quinn SUBS- declan cullen, mark lawless, john mcgough, patric evason, aidan fahy, declan egan, kieran mccallion
ATHENRY SENIOR 'A' WIN UGLY
EAST UNITED 2-3 ATHENRY galway premier league castle park
x1 FORDE, x1 LAWLESS, x1 O'DONNELL
Athenry played East United last Sunday at Castle Park and although missing a couple of starters a good spectacle of football was expected from the fans watching. With weather conditions perfect and the playing service in good condition it wasn't any surprise when Athenry found their feet quickly with Evason shooting wide on 2 minutes after good interplay from Cathal Fahy, Fahy then also spurned a good chance when receiving the ball from Forde but once again Athenry couldn't find the target. With the match barely 5 minutes old another decent passing move saw Cathal Fahy cross but Evason just couldn't get his head to it and with Paddy Quinn shooting wide from distance it looked odds on that Athenry would get on the scoreboard very soon, however with Athenry's initial ascendancy beginning to falter the first half began to frustrate those watching who saw lots of huff and puff but very little in the way of free flowing football other than the first 5 minutes. With too many passes over hit and too many shots wide from both sides the half came to a welcomed end with some stern talking from Athenry's management team.
Straight from the kick off East went on the attack almost breaking through but for good work from Kineen, another swift attack saw O'Donnell shoot wide when close in on 51 minutes followed by a near miss from Conor Lally. With substitute Mark Lawless coming on early in the half to shake things up a bit he was unfortunate to be flagged offside with a tap in when he looked onside and with Fahy then hitting the post it didn't look like Athenry's luck was in as they got more and more frustrated and this frustration was compounded on 65 minutes when East took the lead with a close range header from a corner that eluded the Athenry defence at the near post. Immediately from the restart a sweeping move saw a Gary Forde equalizer on 66 minutes and with Ronan Kineen holding things together at the back showing all of his experience from another East counter it was yet another annoying offside that had Athenry players and fans alike up in arms. An Athenry move began from Kineen in defence through Quinn and Fahy in midfield to find O'Donnell who was put through one on one with the East goal tender only for a very poor offside to be called by the referee yet again. This felt like a suckerpunch when East broke away yet again on 75 minutes to score with Darragh Murphy coming off his line to cut down the angle but being beaten by the East forward to score and on the balance of play probably a deserved goal. With the clock ticking down and Athenry's league campaign in danger of taking a turn for the worse it could have been much much worse if Murphy hadn't saved a sure goal on 78 minutes and it was his long punt from the resultant shot that had Lawless racing towards the home team's goal with East's defence split open by Murphy's long clearance to finish confidently to bring parity back at 2-2.
With the time running down and Athenry really needing the points to move up the table a last push in the few minutes remaining saw an excellent Gary O'Donnell run on 84 minutes bring dividends when he collected the ball and ran into the East United box shooting across the keeper to bring relief and wild celebrations from the Athenry faithful to go 3-2 up. With the game secure Athenry just needed to avoid any more breakaways to see out the game and despite a couple of nervy moments they ran out eventual winners. With East bottom of the league the visitors were very much expected to win, perhaps not easily as there are really no easy games in this division but more convincingly than they did. With East really going for it today you would hope they can give a few more performances like this and do Athenry a favour or two in the remainder of the season, Athenry however will have to raise their own game a lot if they want to finish the campaign off strongly which they are well capable of.
Athenry Team - darragh murphy, aidan fahy, ronan kineen, dermot o'halloran, damien rooney, conor lally, paddy quinn, gary forde, patric evason, cathal fahy, gary o'donnell.Subs mark lawless, kieran mccallion, declan egan
A CLOSE RUN THING FOR ATHENRY
U13 DIVISION 2 CUP FINAL
ATHENRY 3-4 COIS FARRAIGE
Noel Coffeys side got off to the worst possible start by conceding a goal of the softest variety after only two mins, a defensive mix-up allowing the Cois Farraige striker to slot into an unguarded net. Considering this and the fact that Cois Farraige had beaten this team soundly in their league game you would have forgiven the lads if they had downed tools there and then. However they are made of sterner stuff and they carried the game to the opposition for the remainder of the first half. Eoin Lawless and Emmet Caulfield both had chances and the Cois Farraige keeper was kept busy with Athenry netminder Paul Fahy only involved as the half ended, saving well at his near post. If the first half start had been shaky the second half start was no better. Cois Farraige scored a classic breakaway goal after 5mins and scored another (rather soft) goal with their next attack and before Athenry had a chance to recover the Cois Faraige no 11 repeated his goal-on-the-fast-break trick and facing a 4-0 scoreline you would once again assume Athenry would fold. Again you would have been wrong. Adam Treanor capped a busy performance by scoring from close range and sub Hugh Courtney brought a good save from the keeper. From the resulting corner sub Conor Keane cleverly found the net so with only 4mins left in the game Athenry had halved the defecit. Cois Farraige continued to threaten on the break and Paul Fahy had to be brave to deny them. Deep into time added Hugh Courtney again netted from a Mike Rice corner and Cois Farraige were decidedly shaky. The final whistle saved them and both teams were applauded for a fine entertaining game.
This Athenry team (and manager) came away from this with a lot of credit. Cois Farraige won both the league and cup with what is effectively their first team, and congratulations to them. For Athenry to run them so close with their second team is no mean achievement so well done to all!
UNLUCKY ATHENRY SUCCUMB TO RENMORE BY ODD GOAL
U12 CONNACHT SHIELD SEMI FINAL
ATHENRY 1-2 RENMORE
Athenry hosted Renmore on Saturday in the u12 Connacht Shield semi-final and were decidedly unlucky not to at least bring the game to extra time. Both teams had passages of good football and this was an entertaining game of a high standard throughout. Neither team created a clear chance for the bulk of the opening half as the midfield and defenses were evenly matched. With 10 mins left in the half the Renmore winger then found himself in space just outside the 18yd box and he sent a powerful shot high into the net giving keeper Cormac Feeney no chance. Athenry committed more bodies forward and were rewarded just as the half ended when Dumebi Abili drew a good save from the Renmore keeper and Cathal Yaxley netted the rebound. Both teams introduced subs as the second half progressed and the tempo slackened somewhat. With about 12mins remaining Renmore scored a bizarre goal when a low cross along the endline came off the strikers toe and looped over Cormacs head and now Athenry had to chase the game all over again. This they did and Cathal almost equalised but John Grays cross was marginally too high and the Renmore keeper did well to keep out several Athenry shots from distance. Best for Renmore by far was Des Cuffe and this Paul Scholes look-alike is one to keep an eye on. This Athenry team did very well to get this far in this competition and it would be unfair to limit the names to those already mentioned.
Full panel: Alex Park, Conor Feeney, Cathal Yaxley, Mark Daly, James Cummins, Jack Burke, Eoin Lawless, Shay Hennessy, Ethan O'Grady, Martin O'Flaherty, Dumebi Abili, Conor Whelan, Conor Rabbitte, Matthew Brennan, Sean Forde, John Gray, James Duggan, Sean Byrne, Eoin Gavin, Harry Power, Adam Reilly and Bobby Martins.
FORDE HAT TRICK GIVES KINVARA THE BLUES michael byrne cup
ATHENRY 5 - 0 KINVARA
x1 EVASON
X1 CULLEN
X3 FORDE
A win gained with a late Gary Forde treble had Athenry thinking it could be their year for silverware once again, whilst the result was never in doubt and with an expectation of a comfortable win they were made to battle in the second half especially to put this game to bed. As the season progresses it would appear that Athenry's mix of youth and experience in the team seems to be blending quite well.
As early as the first minute an Athenry break through down the middle into the box had the keepers outstretched fingertips turning away a Forde close range flick, with Cullen and Forde once again going close in the initial stages of the match it looked like a long day would be forthcoming for the visitors with further chances from Lally, Quinn and another from the ever lively Forde with only occasional Kinvara counter attacks. With Evason now marauding down the left wing it was his pinpoint cross that almost got the break through on 22 minutes as a Cullen header went close, and with a rare break down field Kinvara tested Darragh Murphy's resolve as he came out to punch away a cross to set Athenry on their way to another Athenry attack down the pitch. Kinvara were finding it difficult to cope with these as they began to look more and more desperate in their defending and it wasn't long before the first goal arrived. With Conor Lally beginning to get space on the right his superb cross was met by Evason for his first of the season who powered his header into the net to the left of the keepers despairing dive, shortly after Paddy Quinn had another drive just over the bar and with youngsters Darragh Murphy and Dermot O'Halloran imperious in defence it wasn't surprising when Declan Cullen got his just reward for all his running with the second goal of the match on 35 minutes and his second Athenry goal since his return from Craughwell United. The half ended with another Forde shot that the Kinvara keeper saved well to see the visitors going in only 2 nil down when a more emphatic scoreline wouldn't have flattered Athenry.
A quick change of kit due to a colour clash saw Athenry come out in their white change strip and they appeared to carry on where they left off with Patric Evason shooting on 50 minutes but Kinvara had other ideas and started to throw everything at Athenry to get back into the game, indeed if it wasn't for an excellent Murphy save on 51 minutes and some good defending from Damien Rooney then the deficit would have been reduced to just one. With another attack Evason turned defender heading out of danger and Kinvara threatened a fightback but once again Athenry weathered the initial storm with Aidan Fahy justifying his selection with excellent defensive work throwing his body into tackles and with Lally now having his best match for Athenry on the right wing he played in Fahy only for him to fire over the bar and with Athenry once again going on the offensive it wasn't a surprise when they gained a penalty on 77 minutes which Forde dispensed into his right hand side of the net to end the contest and to give Athenry a breather, but only for a brief moment as once again Lally's incisive pass to Cathal Fahy forced a superb save from the visitors keeper on 82 minutes and it wasn't long before another corner from Paddy Quinn saw Gary Forde head the ball unhindered into the net for a 4 nil unassailable lead and this was topped off with a free flowing move when substitute Keith Loughnane split Kinvara's last vestiges of a defence to set up Cathal Fahy again who this time played in Forde to complete his hat trick to see out the game.
A game effort from Division 2's Kinvara but ultimately Athenry's extra 'know how' saw this game won at a bit of a canter, the two wingers Evason & Lally had particularly good games with Evason getting his just reward with his seasons first goal despite coming close all season and special mention to Lally who seemed to grow as the game went on for undoubtedly his best game of the season in Athenry colours (whichever they were on the day!). The match ball though must go to Forde who was excellent all game and the goals were just the icing on the cake for his all round performance today!!
Athenry team- darragh murphy, damien rooney, dermot o'halloran, ronan kineen, aidan fahy, patric evason, cathal fahy, gary forde, conor lally, declan cullen, paddy quinn. Subs mark lawless, keith loughnane, kieran mccallion, declan egan, john mcgough
ATHENRY GO TO UNI TO DRAW WITH STUDENTS
NUIG 1-1 ATHENRY
x1 O'Donnell
Athenry went to Dangan, NUIG'S sports complex to play the FAI Junior Cup Quarter Finalists in this Galway league fixture. After suffering a series of losses it really was time for Athenry to get their season back on track with a decent result and performance away from home. Facing a team with no less than six Collingwood Cup Universities players Athenry would have to be at their very best to compete with this team and compete they certainly did. After a somewhat slow start for Athenry in the first half it took a few organisational changes during the break to get the team matching their early season form and they really were very unlucky not to win this one on the number of chances and possession they had.
In the first half NUIG came out invigorated by their current FAI Junior Cup run and really brought the game to Athenry in the initial stages with a couple of Darragh Murphy saves early on in the half, the second save in the 14th minute was of particular note as a game saver. Not that it was all one way traffic with Declan Cullen following this up with a swift counter attack with Fahy feeding him on 16 minutes only for his shot to go wide and Gary Forde had a deflected shot in the 30th minute that could have brought more. With the home side shooting narrowly over the bar shortly afterwards they went ahead in the 33rd minute with a fortuitous goal that was initially blocked in the penalty area but then fell to an NUIG player who shot into the net from close in. Athenry responded with a flurry of activity towards the end of the half with an incisive Lally pass that cut through the oppositions defence with the Athenry forwards only narrowly failing to connect. Encouraging words at half time and an organisational change with Paddy Quinn swapping with Patric Evason on the left.
The second half began with the visitors this time going on the front foot and forcing NUIG to take a more defensive posture as the experience of Gary Forde, Cathal Fahy and Paddy Quinn in a reinforced midfield began to tell, this was momentarily halted as a dog held up the play on the pitch much to the amusement of the referee and the crowd. With play resumed sub Keith Loughnane once again showed his growing stature with the more game time he gets as his delivery from the right was met by a Cullen header just over the bar, again NUIG responded on the break with a header this time just wide. Then a moment of beauty on 78 minutes, which was coming for a while as another Athenry attack was repulsed only for an ever industrious Gary O'Donnell to hit a low drive from distance which flew through a crowded penalty area to fly into the net with the goalkeeper non the wiser! With more than 10 minutes left Athenry really went for the win with another Cathal Fahy mazy run nearly bringing a goal scoring opportunity and another Gary O'Donnell drive flying wide after more excellent play by Paddy Quinn holding the ball up front and bringing other team mates into play. With custodian Darragh Murphy making another fine save at the back and Aidan Fahy vocally marshalling the defence providing Athenry with the confidence to go forward it was disappointing when the referee called proceedings to a halt with the final whistle, when the game had promised more. What Athenry must take from this game is that today they played an in form team away from home and when they got going they looked like the better team for much of the game, if they can take this form into their remaining matches then a strong league finish should be forthcoming and a decent League cup run will ensue starting with the Micheal Byrne League Cup game at the weekend against Kinvara.
Athenry Team- darragh murphy, paddy quinn, dermot o'halloran, damien rooney, aidan fahy, patric evason, gary forde, cathal fahy, conor lally, declan cullen, gary o'donnell. Subs - keith loughnane, mark lawless, colm kilkelly.
U13'S DO US PROUD
ATHENRY 1-3 MOUNT MERRION
x1 Brandon Lee
The Athenry u13 team played Mount Merrion from Dublin in the last 32 of the Sfai Cup on Sunday in Moanbaun. The day was slightly overcast but was about to become very bright indeed for the large crowd present. The game itself started at a million miles an hour and never let up until the final whistle.
Both teams tore into each other initially trying to get the upper hand. Merrion had a couple of early chances with their forwards looking very dangerous. Shane Quirke in goals for Athenry stood firm, getting down low to push away and then gather the ball with great assurance.His strong presence and calmness quickly began to infect his fellow players and Athenry started to cope with everything that Merrion had to offer. The Athenry back four of Flaherty, Treacy, Donohue and Lawless caught their breath, steadied their heads and began to build the attacks from strong defence. Upfront Athenry started to threaten the Merrion back four with real menace in the form of Brandon Lee. In fairness Brandon looked dangerous every time the ball went near him. He has real pace and presence and he terrorised the Merrion back four with the able assistance of Oisin Smith, Alan Haverty and Jack Maguire. In midfield with Patrick Rabbitte and John Regan beginning to get a hold of the ball, Athenry had a few good chances to go ahead in the first half. As it was, the first half finished honours even.
Again the second half began as the first had finished. Players throwing themselves into tackles, coaches shouting encouragement and the crowds becoming ever more anxious.Before we knew it Merrion went ahead with a well worked goal. The Athenry lads had two choices and they took the one that made us proud. The Athenry management decided to go three at the back and to push an extra player into midfield. The results were almost immediate.The pressure told with an Athenry player being taken down half way between the penalty box and the centre circle. The ball was handed to Brandon. Next thing BANG! I don't believe that any goalie senior or junior would have saved it. It was just something to behold! 1-1 game on. Athenry put all the pressure on Merrion. Chances came from a number of Athenry corners with Patrick and Dean very unlucky not to score. Brian O'Cuirnin came on and narrowly missed with a header, but that was as good as it got.
Merrion got a soft free at halfway and with speed of thought got the ball into Athenry's box to score. They quickly followed that with a super goal from their left winger, who curled the ball with precision into the bottom right corner of the Athenry goal past Quirke. Athenry made a couple of changes with Michael Colman and Adam Treanor coming on. They played the rest of the game with all the pride and passion that they could muster. They created a couple of chances but it just wasn't to be this time around. The game finished with a huge round of applause from all the spectators that were lucky enough to be present.Gerry Treacy and John Donohue have a team that are a credit to them and our club. Merrion we're deserving winners on the day but our day will come.
(by The reluctant linesman)
YOU DONT WIN ANYTHING WITH KIDS,OR SO THEY SAY!
ATHENRY 'A' 1-4 ST PATRICKS
x1 LAWLESS
Last week it was a case of a very much changed team for Athenry Senior A squad but this week was a tale of a very much depleted team that took to the pitch against St Patricks with no less than 5 first team starters missing due to work and other commitments. That is not to make excuses for the result but to be missing that many players and to have a bench consisting of only three U17 players is a telling statistic that hopefully will be addressed next match out.
With Athenry setting out a very much attacking line up with an energetic Mark Lawless getting a rare start and an ever improving Declan Cullen to the fore it was Athenry who drew first blood with Mark Lawless running onto a through ball on 18 minutes and hitting a shot which looped of the visitors diving keeper to roll into the net. This was followed up with another good run by Lawless after being released by Lally this time to the left but good defending managed to snuff out this attack, with Athenry trying to adjust to the badly cut up pitch it was no surprise when another good move with Evason and Cathal Fahy combining well set up Cullen for another shot which went just wide this coupled with Darragh Murphy pulling off an excellent save on 30 minutes had Athenry in the driving seat and despite 2 awful offside decisions against Athenry when Athenry forwards would have been clean through it looked like Athenry would go on and add to their tally, but they were hit with a sucker punch on 43 minutes when a needless free kick just outside the box gave St Patricks a shot which cannoned off the bar and hit Murphy on his back to rebound into the net for an unfortunate own goal. Half time and despite having the best of it Athenry found themselves on parity with their visitors.
The half kicked off with St Patricks seeming to gather momentum who just seemed to be coping better with the pitch, with Athenry's midfielders Fahy & Quinn finding it difficult to play their usual passing game St Patricks hit the front and despite Athenry upping their game and going on the offensive once again they were hit with a third goal shortly afterwards, with the bench utilised fully a late rally saw Evasons speculative drive hitting the post in the 80th minute and a Lawless header cleared of the line in the 84th minute but ultimately the half limped to its inevitable conclusion with another goal conceded and a defeat.
Conclusions? Well what can you say, firstly its impossible to be missing so many of your first team starters for a match such as this to be competitive and sheer bad luck certainly played a massive part with St Patricks equalizing goal, a couple of very harsh referee called offsides and a blessed St Patricks goal, secondly the pitch has not coped well with the weather and really was a hinderance for the home side despite the argument that its the same for both teams and finally the three U17 subs who were introduced during the second half all showed they can certainly play football, really good football, which leads us to the final conclusion that Athenry do have strength coming through belieing the rather frivolous headline on this match report! And just proves the old adage that if your good enough to step up then age should not represent a hindrance to a players development. Roll on the next match please.....
Athenry Team- darragh murphy, patric evason, damien rooney, colm kilkelly, aidan fahy, paddy quinn, conor lally, cathal fahy, keith loughnane, declan cullen, mark lawless, subs- kieran mccallion, john mcgough, conor moran.
ATHENRY LOSE ON THE PLASTIC
GALWAY HIBS 3-1 ATHENRY SENIOR 'A' galway league
x1 CULLEN
A much changed Athenry side took to Mervue's marvellous All Weather pitch on Sunday 2nd March, playing against an experienced Galway Hibernians team in perfect weather for football. An good start was vital and with the game barely 3 minutes old a Gary O'Donnell shot went rasping past the near post indeed it was the same player whose promising run inside 10 minutes after good work by Gary Forde should have brought more than the Hibs keeper just gathering the ball. Athenry now clearly getting a foothold in the game despite a couple of Hibs shots and some under pressure crosses abley collected by Darragh Murphy were taking the game to their opponents with a Cathal Fahy shot that the Hibs keeper did well to hold and with Patric Evason and Conor Lally working well on the left supporting forward play with a couple of incisive passes Declan Cullen was becoming a more active threat when his header thundered off the home teams crossbar after an excellent Lally cross only to see the rebound gathered safely by the Hibs keeper. The game rushed through to half time with missed chances from both sides with keeper Murphy blocking out another near post shot for a corner.
Encouraging words from the Athenry management at half time had an almost immediate effect at the turn around with a well worked goal coming on 48 minutes with Declan Cullen connecting with a pin point cross and burying his low drive into the far corner from distance. With Athenry pushing forward in search of another to stretch their lead a misplaced pass allowed Hibs to clear their lines to launch a long drive down the wing and another pass had the Athenry defence at sixes and sevens with the Galway Hibs forward powering his way through to finish neatly. The goal seemed to lift Hibs and deflate the young Athenry side who knew they were now in a game and this was confirmed when yet again another long ball over the top caught out the Athenry defence midway through the half once again and Athenry's lead had turned into a deficit with two bad goals conceded. Trying to get back into the game Athenry battled valiantly to break down the Hibs defence with Fahy and Forde pushing forward at all times but despite repeated attacks with all three subs Mark lawless, Jamie O'Driscoll and Paddy Quinn introduced at various stages of the half to bolster the team another break away was Athenry's undoing and ex Athenry player Ollie Keogh finished the game off in the last minutes of the match to put a gloss on the scoreline. Football can indeed be a cruel game especially when you know you have had the chances to put the game to bed early doors! Although the emphatic scoreline it should be noted that their were no less than 5 players 19 years of age and below in Athenry's starting line up and Keith Loughnanes performance despite being curtailed by injury was worthy of special note and shows that the younger players are certainly coming through and they are getting valuable experience as the season progresses.
Athenry Team- darragh murphy, damien rooney, packie, dermot o'halloran, patric evason, conor lally, cathal fahy, gary forde, keith loughnane, declan cullen, gary o'donnell SUBS- paddy quinn, jamie o'driscoll, colm kilkelly, aidan fahy, mark lawless
CONNACHT CUP HOPES ENDED BY LOCAL RIVALS
ATHENRY 1-3 COLEMANSTOWN UNITED connacht cup 4th round
fahy x1
Athenry will look back at this re-arranged 4th Round Connacht Cup game with huge disappointment as their dreams of Connacht Cup glory were extinguished for this season, in a match were they never really got going they must turn their attention to defending their Micheal Byrne League Cup title instead perhaps their best chance of silverware for this season.
With weather conditions looking a bit more settled at the kick off it was telling that Athenry's first real major threat didn't materialise until the 26th minute with O'Driscoll firing wide after good work down the middle of the park from the home team and this was quickly followed up with Brian Murphy shooting over the bar in the 27th. With Paddy Quinn getting forward regularly from his left back spot it was no surprise when he had a decent shot charged down in the box in the 35th minute with appeals for hand ball turned down by the referee, the best move of the half saw a precision pass from Mark Lawless cutting open the away teams defence through to Conor Lally who could only watch as the ball ran out of play. Despite extended periods of possession from the kick off Athenry found themselves reduced to a lot of half chances with Colemanstown content to hit the home team on the break and with the pich cutting up fairly badly due to continued rainfall you could sense from the growing number of spectators that the second half was going to be a much more fraught affair if Athenry didn't get on the scoresheet shortly.
Two minutes into the second half saw Lawless miss a chance from close in and ten minutes into the half a couple of substitutions with O'Donnell & McDonagh coming on to bolster the attacking options for Athenry. Within a minute of being introduced O'Donnell skipped down the right wing battling past 3 Colemanstown defenders to cross for McDonagh who unfortunately couldn't get his shot off. With Colemanstown now growing into the game and becoming more of a threat as the game progressed it was a breakaway which saw the visitors take the lead on 60 minutes to go one nil up with Athenry pushing forward and a mix up in the Athenry defence, this seemed to spark Athenry back into life with Forde putting through an ever busy Fahy for a long range shot in the 68th minute and another peach of a shot in the 70th which saw him claim his 19th goal of the season after his shot flew through a crowded box, however this parity was short lived as another good Colemanstown passing move saw a cross into the box elude the Athenry defence and a superb header flew past a despairing Darragh Murphy who only managed to get half a glove on it for the men in white to go in front once again. Athenry came forward again with renewed vigour with Fahy firing over and Quinn shooting wide after going up front and Athenry switching to three at the back and with another late substitution all Athenry's cards had been dealt but all to no avail as another break away from Colemanstown saw a through ball bypass the Athenry defence and their striker was taken down in the box to give away a stonewall penalty which was duly converted in the dying seconds of the match. Athenry will look forward to their next game with relish to put this result to bed and get back on track for this season.
Athenry Team - darragh murphy, paddy quinn, dermot o'halloran, ronan kineen, damien rooney, conor lally, cathal fahy, gary forde, jamie o'driscoll, brian murphy, mark lawless.
subs - keith loughnane, aidan fahy, brian mcdonagh, packie, gary o'donnell, patric evason, colm kilkelly, mike fahy
KEEPERS HEROICS KEEP ATHENRY ON TRACK
TUAM CELTIC 1-1 a.e.t ATHENRY (C.Fahy x1)
Athenry win on penalties 3-2
Athenry Senior A went to Celtic Park with the aim of defending the Michael Byrne Cup, a game were they often found themselves under pressure from a home team who took the game to the visitors from the first minute. Athenry introduced two new signings in Conor Lally and a returning Declan Cullen into this cup tie for their season debut's with a heavy pitch and sporadic rain not helping the flow of the game.
As early as the 3rd minute a Tuam free kick smothered by Darragh Murphy set the pattern of play with Tuam settling early doors with a succession of corners, the first the Athenry keeper was able to parry and the resultant next corner was shot wide by Tuam, this Tuam pressure was broken up when Athenry forward Cullen was put through only to shoot over the bar close in. Another dangerous Tuam attack and another cross was headed over in the 13th minute and in the 18th minute Athenry responded with a Brian Murphy shot which was dragged just wide, quickly followed up by a Cathal Fahy run which saw him flagged offside somewhat fortuitously for the home team.
Just when it looked like Athenry had withstood the early pressure they were hit down the middle with a through ball and the Tuam forward was able to flick the ball past Athenry's defence and hit it on the volley to give the home team the lead on 21 minutes. Athenry tried to respond immediately with Paddy Quinn winning a free outside the Tuam box only for Forde to shoot wide from the resultant freekick with another Fahy free also going wide on 24 minutes. On 28 minutes Tuam made a another good run on the left wing and their striker was only able to scuff his shot, again under pressure Darragh Murphy made a superb save when one on one with the same striker to stop Tuam stretching their lead, the game continued to half time with Tuam in the ascendancy with Athenry trying to get a foothold in the game.
No changes at half time and Athenry began to become a more attacking threat going forward after a formation change with Brian Murphy crossing in the 47th minute only for Cullen to get a shot off which the keeper had covered, Dermot O'Halloran also unleashed a long range shot from distance to put pressure on the Tuam goal. Another couple of Tuam attacks with an ever busy Dermot O'Halloran and Ronan Kineen working hard fire fighting at the back and Athenry then replaced Cullen with Keith Loughnane going on up front. On 70 minutes an excellent Fahy run ended with him getting a free just outside the box and he put his shot just wide. Then on 78 minutes the equaliser came as a result of the best pattern of play all afternoon from Athenry when Brian Murphy collected the ball and threaded a pass to Loughnane who quickly played it to Fahy who ran through a busy Tuam penalty box to bury the ball to the keepers right to get them back into the game.
Tuam again retaliated and in the 84th minute a sweeping home attack saw another excellent one on one shot stopped by the Athenry net minder Murphy this time getting an outstretched leg to snuff out the attack. On 85 minutes a swift counter attack had calls for handball from Athenry ringing around the ground when Fahys effort was blocked on the near post by a Tuam defender and the game went into extra time which after another 20 minutes couldn't seperate the teams despite a couple more chances from each side. So into the dreaded penalty shoot out which saw Athenry outscore Tuam 3 goals to 2 with an excellent Darragh Murphy showing a cool head who saved Tuams second and third penalties to end the game as a contest and put them through to the third round. Perhaps not at their best today and its never easy to play Tuam anytime especially at Celtic Park but this was their first game after the Christmas shutdown and Athenry can only improve as they find their rythm again as the season gets underway again.
ATHENRY TEAM- DARRAGH MURPHY, DAMIEN ROONEY, DERMOT O'HALLORAN, RONAN KINEEN, PADDY QUINN, CONOR LALLY, BRIAN MURPHY, CATHAL FAHY, JAMIE O'DRISCOLL, GARY FORDE, DECLAN CULLEN.
SUBS- PATRIC EVASON, AIDAN FAHY, KEITH LOUGHNANE, COLM KILKELLY, MARK LAWLESS, MIKE FAHY.
FAHY BLITZ'S SAINTS AS O'HALLORAN SHINES
ST JOHNS ATHLETIC 2 - 8 ATHENRY
(C.FAHY x4, FORDE x2, M.FAHY, B.MURPHY)
CONNACHT CUP 3RD ROUND, LECARROW, ROSCOMMON
This was a rather one sided affair but it gave Athenry a welcome boost as they go into the holiday period for a well deserved break. Despite the weather conditions the St Johns pitch was in very good condition and the Roscommon club should be congratulated who were very welcoming to the Galway visitors who played in their change strip of black & green stripes today. Athenry went into the game looking to bounce back from the last couple of weeks disappointments and began the game with a young side who seem to be growing in confidence and stature as the season goes on.
It wasn't long before a lively Mark Lawless unleashed a shot on 10 minutes which the keeper did well and collected in the slippery conditions, then straight after the goalkeeper cleared Patric Evason given the freedom of the left wing put in an inswinger after being fed by O'Driscoll which flew narrowly past the goal with no one able to connect. On 12 minutes Brian Murphy flashed a header at goal after an excellent Cathal Fahy cross and this gave the team the impetus and drive to attack the St Johns goal at will with the marauding Cathal Fahy almost through on 14 minutes only being stopped by a robust challenge by the home goalkeeper. A long floating ball this time from O'Halloran in defence was smartly taken down and controlled by Lawless only to find himself crowded out when about to run at the defence. Then the early breakthrough on 16 minutes came when Cathal Fahy unleashed a shot from just outside the box leaving the keeper wrong footed to make it one nil to the visitors. Straight from the kick off and no let up for St Johns as Lawless collected a loose ball and fired another good effort at the keeper, with Patric Evason growing in confidence on the left he slipped a ball through the legs of a St Johns defender and crossed for Murphy only to find the keeper in good form once again.
The game continued with good passing and movement from Athenry with striker Fahy having a couple of decent strikes before finally collecting yet another Evason cross which the keeper fumbled and it fell kindly for Fahy to finish with aplomb from 15 yards on 28 minutes to make it 2 nil no more than the visitors deserved for all their possession.
When St Johns did break Dermot O'Halloran was supreme in defence not only thwarting the home teams efforts but setting up Forde and O'Driscoll who were dominating the midfield, it really looks like Athenry have found a gem in this young defender. Another sweeping move saw an Evason long pass collected by Fahy who set up Murphy for yet another shot. On 32 minutes Mike Fahy found himself put through into the oppositions penalty box after another sweeping move from defence to attack and slotted home much to the delight of the Athenry bench to get Athenry's third. With Athenry now totally in the ascendancy with the two wingers getting shots off on target it wasn't surprising when a through ball was dummied by Lawless wrong footing the St Johns defence for striker Fahy to collect his hat trick on 43 minutes and Athenry's 4th in the half. The game continued with Gary Forde once again finding Murphy who was unlucky to be flagged offside when through on goal. Half time came with Colm Kilkelly replacing Mike Fahy and buoyed by the scoreline Athenry set about their business with the goal of the game coming on 49 minutes when a sweeping move saw a Brian Murphy pass across the park for Evason to slip the ball to Forde who fired home emphatically to get his deserved goal to make it 5 goals without reply. Then against the run of play a rare break away from the lively St Johns number 13 Substitute saw a cross come shot sail over a watching and under utilised Darragh Murphy straight into the net to an incredulous Athenry bench. With the goal coming against the run of play Athenry stepped it up once again and on 58 minutes Cathal Fahy was taken down in the box on another of his incisive runs and Murphy got his goal from the spot to make it 6-1, shortly followed in the 63rd minute by another when Evason won a free just outside the box with Fahy hitting the resultant trademark freekick on target to make the wall redundant once again not for the first time this season for 7-1. Not that it was all one way traffic with Athenry keeper Murphy blocking strong shots in the 67th and 69th minutes and Aidan Fahy showing all his experience in subduing the physical St Johns forward he found himself up against constantly. On 75 minutes winger Murphy passed to Forde who hit a 30 yard screamer to get his second of this rather one sided Connacht cup match to make it 8-1.
Not that it was all Athenry as a rare break from the home side on 81 minutes and as the Athenry backline waited for a flag for a blatant offside which never came St Johns got another to make it 8-2. With the pressure building on the home side it was surprising that Athenry didn't score more as another succession of chances came Athenry's way in the last few minutes with another Evason cross flying across the box, Murphy hitting the side netting, O'Driscoll blazing over and a Cathal Fahy shot just being tipped over the bar after an excellent save from the St Johns net minder. The game finally came to a close after left back Aidan Fahy's deflected shot narrowly missed the st Johns left hand post.
A good win and Athenry can expect much stronger opposition in the 4th round but if they can keep the rediscovered goal scoring form going and everyone fit then perhaps a decent run in this cup competition will be forthcoming. Special note must go to this young crop of Athenry youngsters who are getting valuable game time this season with O'Halloran showing great maturity in the centre back position today. Have a great christmas lads.
ATHENRY TEAM- darragh murphy, aidan fahy, dermot o'halloran, ronan kineen, mike fahy, patric evason, jamie O'driscoll, gary forde, brian murphy, mark lawless, cathal fahy. Sub- colm kilkelly
LAST MINUTE HEARTACHE IN FAHY'S FIELD
MERVUE UNITED 3 - 2 ATHENRY FC (gdsl premier league)
FAHYS FIELD x1 CATHAL FAHY
x1 MARK LAWLESS
Athenry set up the team to stem the flow from a free scoring Mervue team who sit at the top of the Galway Premier table, both teams were unbeaten so far this season and Gabriel Glavins men knew this would be a stern test of their resolve. Five minutes into the game Brian Murphy won a corner after being fed by Patric Evason and Evason an ex Mervue player was unlucky not to get on the end of a delightfully weighted set piece from Gary Forde. On 10 minutes just when it looked like Athenry were finding their feet they were caught on the break and conceded a sloppy goal. Then on 16 minutes another free kick in a dangerous position and Athenry conceded another this time from a header at the far post as the Athenry defence were caught ball watching.
Two nil down and looking down the precipice it looked like a long night was in store against the league leaders. On 18 minutes Paddy Quinn driving his team on ran down the side line and whipped in a cross and Athenry shot over the bar, Gary Forde once again looking strong and full of guile and running had a header on 22 minutes just over, then the unfortunate Brian McDonagh made way with a hamstring injury for Mark Lawless who came off a threadbare Athenry bench to go upfront. On 26 minutes Brian Murphy continued his run into the box with ex Athenry keeper Andrew Walsh smothering the ball at his feet. Then on 35 minutes a Gary Forde free kick had Mervue scrambling the ball away and it looked like Athenry could get back into this game, Murphy on the right wing was now showing promise with another run and when Mervue did get another chance Darragh Murphy made another trademark point blank save this coupled with an excellent Paddy Quinn and an impressive Dermot O'Halloran kept the rest of the half scoreless despite Mervue shooting wide from a good position in the 41st minute.
Second half and game on and a rejuvenated Athenry set about their task with great vigour and determination, immediately from the restart Gary Forde had a shot after a strong run and on 50 minutes Mark Lawless went close with a powerfully driven snap shot. Cathal Fahy's strong run set up O'Driscoll for another shot and Athenry sensed they could get back into this game. On 54 minutes O'Driscoll shot wide and this was followed by an other shot on 57 minutes this time from Gary Forde who was giving a man of the match performance, the player testing Mervues Walsh who tipped over the bar from another Forde freekick. Then Athenry forced a succession of corners with strong handball claims turned down after an O'Halloran shot from just outside the box, it seemed like another refereeing decision going against the visitors. On 61 minutes Athenry gained what they deserved when a Cathal Fahy freekick low drive sailed in past a despairing keeper and when Patric Evason charged down a powerful Mervue shot in the box there looked like only one team in the ascendancy. Yet again another free and O'Halloran headed wide with Forde going close with another blocked shot and a wide. Patric Evason then broke down the left to test the Mervue goal with a shot to the near post which Walsh saved on 67 minutes.
Athenry sensing a new impetus made another change with Niall Concannon replacing a black eyed Evason on 75 minutes who had received a welcome "Mervue kiss" in the first minute of the game for his troubles. Then on 78 minutes after a good effort from O'Driscoll Mark Lawless showed some bravery when scrambling the ball over the line to get a much deserved equalizer taking a kick to the head as he ended up in the net requiring attention from Athenry's medical team who worked wonders on a poleaxed Lawless.
Aidan Fahy came on for namesake Mike Fahy in the 80th minute and a Paddy Quinn interception had Gary Forde and Niall Concannon searching for the winner with good positive runs from both of them resulting in another Forde effort flashing across the goal mouth which had Athenry celebrating momentarily, Brian Murphy followed up a few seconds later with a wide shot on 89 minutes and you had the feeling the game wasn't over yet especially when Mervue got a disputed freekick on the edge of the box in the dying seconds Mervue claiming a penalty but after consulting the linesman and Athenry's protests a free was given. The cross came in Darragh Murphy parried a shot and the rebound was slotted home from close range to break Athenry hearts and to give Mervue an unexpected and unmerited win given athenry's dominance in the second half and latter stages of the first.
A memorable performance from a depleted Athenry team that just didn't deserve to lose out in what turned out to be both a physical and attacking game of football. What can be drawn from the game? Firstly it showed this team can play serious football when the chips are down and they should take heart from the performance of all players, Ronan Kineen and Mike Fahy especially showing that experience counts in these matches, secondly in Gary Forde they have a skilled and energetic player who fully deserves his recent Oscar Traynor call up and in Cathal Fahy they have a free kick specialist who must score more than he misses from them. On the down side Athenry really must look at their off target shot count, again too many were wide or over the bar despite the many that were on target, if they can rectify it then they really would be scoring for fun. Many more good points can be drawn from the game than bad especially considering the very large player panel that is available to Mervue for selection many of them with League Of Ireland experience at all levels both senior & U19. Athenry put their recent couple of performances to bed and despite gaining nothing on the evening all supporters were in agreement that the team can be proud of their efforts and still give a good challenge on the league and will have a serious chance of cup success.
Athenry Team - darragh murphy, paddy quinn, ronan kineen, dermot o'halloran, mike fahy, patric evason, cathal fahy, gary forde, jamie o'driscoll, brian murphy, brian mcdonagh. subs - mark lawless, niall concannon, aidan fahy.
NUMBER ONE MURPHY SAVES THE DAY IN TUAM
TUAM CELTIC 0 - 0 ATHENRY FC (gdsl premier)
Celtic Park
Another point and another unbeaten game but you get the feeling that the management team will be as frustrated as the supporters who made the trip to Tuam's Celtic Park on Sunday. Despite dominating for long spells in the possession department Athenry left their shooting boots at home and their penchant for scoring goals has worryingly dried up in the last two matches.
Paddy Quinn was first up to the plate playing in his more accustomed forward position this season with a shot in the 3rd minute, then quickly combining a few minutes later with Gary Forde whose shot was well driven over the bar, the same player also shooting wide on 23 minutes after some good approach play from defence to the forwards in a quick passing move. Tuam where getting frustrated with a lack of possession and collected a yellow card for dissent and one for time wasting as the half wore on. In the 26th minute Paddy Quinn once again was almost through with the keeper smothering the ball. At the back Dermot O'Halloran showed his growing confidence standing in for an injured Stephen Rabbitte for the second consecutive game and looked assured and composed in the position beside an excellent Ronan Kineen who bossed the defence with relative ease and headed out of defence on a number of occasions when it looked like Tuam would break through and when Tuam did have a strike an acrobatic stop from young Darragh Murphy had the photographers scrambling for their cameras. Brian Murphy on the wing had a shot parried away by the keeper in the 31st minute after being set up by Paddy Quinn and the same player returned the favour on 36 minutes when setting up Quinn for another shot but all to no avail.
Athenry for all their possession still couldn't score and when Gary Forde embarked on a mazy run only to be impeded on the edge of the Tuam box the resultant Cathal Fahy freekick was blocked, the half concluded with another couple of shots which the Tuam keeper dealt with comfortably the first a looping Cathal Fahy shot and another shot from left back Anthony Conneely.
Second half came and Athenry's wastefulness in front of goal continued with a Paddy Quinn header going wide on 48 minutes and another Paddy Quinn flick which was blocked and bobbled out off the 6 yard box but no one was following up to apply the finishing touch. Another Athenry shot went wide on 65 minutes and you sort of got the feeling this was going to be the order of the day especially when a scrambled O'Driscoll effort came back off the post and was cleared by a grateful home defence. On 72 minutes Quinn and O'Driscoll combined but the resultant effort was headed out by the Tuam centre half on the goal line. Not that it was all one way traffic as newly promoted Tuam are known for their battling capabilities having only lost once at home this season and a pitch length run by a Tuam player had Athenry scrambling to get men back to stop the runner going in on goal after leaving a couple of Athenry players for dead! Another couple of petulant yellow cards quickly followed for the home team and Athenry continued to miss chances as a Brian Murphy shot went over the bar on 75 minutes followed by a succession of Athenry wides in the last ten minutes. On 88 minutes Tuam broke past Athenry's rearguard and an energetic Darragh Murphy made a point blank save to deny the disappointed Tuam forward who couldn't believe that he hadn't won the game for the home side, but the game wasn't over and on 90 minutes Murphy once again parried another goalbound effort out from his near post much to the relief of Athenry who really should have made their possession and shots count on the day. Gary Forde was excellent on the day as were the defensive pairing of O'Halloran & Kineen but special mention to goalkeeper Darragh Murphy whose growing reputation as a goalkeeper and as Athenry's number 1 was enhanced considerably with this performance.
ATHENRY TEAM - darragh murphy, mike fahy, dermot o'halloran, ronan kineen, anthony conneely, gary forde, cathal fahy, jamie o'driscoll, brian murphy, paddy quinn, gary o'donnell Subs damien rooney, brian mcdonagh, keith loughnane, patric evason, mark lawless, aaron van niekerk, colm kilkelly, aidan fahy, niall concannon.
Colga 1-1 Athenry(U13) Date:23/11/13 Venue:Colga
Scorer: Michael Rice
At the start of the game both sides were evenly matched, a game where chances on goal were few and far between. Athenry’s goalkeeper was having a good game and he blocked or saved anything that came his way, in midfield Eoin Lawless was putting in a huge shift and he seemed to be everywhere. At the end of the first half Colga scored their first goal, with their striker latching onto a long ball the Colga forward just managed to push the ball past Henrick in the Athenry goal and evading the challenge of Aaron Jayakumar before tapping the ball into an empty net. Just before half-time Michael Rice had an opportunity to score, but his half-volley went just over the bar after a lovely through ball from Cian Coffey, the chance coming from a defensive mistake by Colga. At half time the sides were even, but Colga FC had the advantage on the scoreboard. Athenry made three substitutions, bringing on Conor Keane, Paul Fahy and Adam Treanor. Once again chances were hard to come by. Then with about a quarter of the match left, a penalty was awarded to Colga. Unfortunately for them, the ball struck the post from the kick and was cleared away. Five minutes later Michael Rice received the ball and took it around the Colga defence and finished to the corner of the net. In the end a draw was probably a fair result.
Athenry Team Goalkeeper: Henrick Cardosa Braga Defenders: Niall Dooley, Aaron Jayakumar, Conor Moran, Christopher Rabbitte Midfielders: Oisin Fox, Eoin Lawless, Emmet Ruane, Cian Coffey Forwards: Hugh Courtney, Michael Rice Subs: Ronan Cooley, Mark Moran, Cillian Flynn, Conor Keane, Paul Fahy, Oisin Dilger, Cian Kelly, Adam Treanor
Match Report By Michael Rice
SUB O'DRISCOLL INSPIRES UMBRO CUP VICTORY
ATHENRY 4 - 1 TUAM CELTIC (fai junior cup)
O'DONNELL,
QUINN,
O'DRISCOLL,
FAHY
Athenry took on a confident Tuam Celtic who had won their last three matches in all competitions, the last meeting between the two had ended in a 0-0 stalemate in Athenry on the first day of the season. With weather conditions leaving a lot to be desired at kick off it looked like a scrappy game would ensue.
On 2 minutes with the crowd barely having settled into their seats! a quick Patric Evason throw was headed on into the path of Gary O'Donnell who in keeping with Athenry's habit of getting early goals finished slickly leaving the keeper rooted. Aaron Van Niekerk began to show what a good player he is with a shot in the 7th minute and an excellent cross which Paddy Quinn could only slice as the weather worsened. On 20 minutes Tuam forced a succession of corners which had Athenry under pressure but with the likes of Stephen Rabbitte, Gary Forde and Ronan Kineen strongly heading out of defence these were all repelled. On 28 minutes Tuam were unlucky to shoot wide after a mazy run by their striker and this coupled with a bit of Darragh Murphy magic with his feet wrong footing a Tuam forward in the process when clearing the danger snuffed out another Tuam attack. Van Niekerk's influence was growing in the game and a meandering dribble could have brought more on 35 minutes and this was followed by a passage of play that Gary Forde started and saw the same Athenry midfielder almost finishing the perfect 6 pass move when scuffing just wide of the Tuam net.
Up front Athenry's profligacy in front of goal continued for the rest of the half when Gary O'Donnell chipped the ball to Paddy Quinn whose tame header was collected by the keeper and on 39 minutes a Cathal Fahy free kick sailed over the bar. Once again another excellent chance went begging as Fahy and Forde combined exquisitely on the wing only for the attack to break down this was followed by an excellent defensive tackle by Cathal Fahy in the 42nd minute to break up a rare Tuam attack. The half ended with the promise of better weather and perhaps a few more goals from the home side.
As the second half began Darragh Murphy showed great bravery yet again belying his years in closing down another Tuam attack and on 52 minutes Van Niekerk thought he had stretched the lead but his effort was disallowed. Athenry for all their dominance in possession and chances were hit with a sucker punch when conceding to the visitors. Game on for Athenry and their management who then brought on O'Driscoll who slotted into midfield, its perhaps testament to the depth of the squad when a player of O'Driscoll's ability can be brought on like this. Almost immediately O'Halloran was able to get down the left and put in a beautiful cross which no one could get onto, then on 60 minutes the eventual breakthrough came that Athenry deserved all day when Jamie O'Driscoll fed Paddy Quinn for Athenry to re-take the lead to make it 2-1, then with O'Donnell finding an extra gear hitting the bar the follow up was slotted home from O'Driscoll from distance to make it a more comfortable 3-1 lead. O'Driscoll at this stage was bossing the midfield with his extra energy and incisive passing and he had another shot that the Tuam goal tender spilled only for it to be hacked away as Tuam knew the tide had changed. A Cathal Fahy palm stinger on 82 minutes was then followed by Athenry's fourth goal in the 86th minute when he embarked on a run were he swaggered the hips and jinked past two Tuam players and finished from 25 yards to end the game as a contest as the old cliche says this contest would have been over a long time ago if it was a boxing match.
TEAM- darragh murphy, mike fahy, ronan kineen, stephen rabbitte, patric evason, aaron van niekerk, cathal fahy, dermot o'halloran, gary forde, paddy quinn, gary o'donnell. SUBS jamie o'driscoll, mark lawless, keith loughnane, mike foran, niall concannon, aidan fahy, colm kilkelly, declan egan
MATCH STATS......FINAL SCORE..... ATHENRY 4-1 TUAM CELTIC
TOTAL SHOTS.....15 - 6
SHOTS ON TARGET......11 - 3
SHOTS OFF TARGET.....4 - 3
ST PETERS 2-5 ATHENRY(u12 Connacht Shield)
BYRNE x3, YAXLEY, ABILI
Despite fielding a strong starting eleven Athenry FC found themselves 2-0 down after 12 minutes, the first goal due to carelessness at the back and the second to a dubiously awarded penalty. However the gulf in class soon became evident with John Gray cannoning a shot off the crossbar and Sean Byrne starting to get the freedom of the left wing. A Cathal Yaxley close range finish and a Byrne angled shot restored parity by the break and Byrne scored his second immediatley from the restart. From here on the pressure on the St Peters goal was consistent and the cushion goal duly arrived via Dmebi Abili and another 6 yard box finish. Almost immediately after this St Peters were awarded an even more doubtful penalty than their first but justice was done with the shot sailing wide. Sean Forde was a colossus in midfield throughout and set Sean Byrne up for his hat-trick and indeed only for some brave goalkeeping by the St Peters net-minder the margin would have been greater at the end.
For Athenry, keeper Cormac Feeney was solid and the back four of Conor Whelan, Eoin Lawless, Shay Hennessey and Mark Daly were all dependable, Conor Rabbitte improved when moved to the right wing and Matt Brennan contributed much. Subs Alex Park, Jack Burke, Ethan O'Grady and Jason Kilkelly all played some part so this was very much a squad effort.
St Peters were very sporting in defeat and provided refreshments afterwards so well done to them and Athenrys considerable support appreciated it.
SAME SCORE DIFFERENT PERFORMANCE
CORRIB RANGERS 2-4 ATHENRY
(fahy x2, forde, o'donnell) GDSL premier
Athenry went into this game playing into the wind and proceeded to give a performance that belied the atrocious weather conditions. Athenry brought the game to Corrib Rangers from the start managing to open up the home sides defence at every opportunity with slick distribution made all the more slicker with the wet grass making for a fast paced opening.
On 10 minutes Cathal Fahy opened the scoring after Athenry had genuine calls for a penalty turned down flat, the midfielder skipping over a robust challenge ran across the top of the penalty box to finish with aplomb with a angled shot. This was a deserved start to the match with the way Athenry set about their task, on 15 minutes another breaking ball from midfield was gathered by Fahy and against the wind the shot flew in from over 30 yards to make it a brace for him. On 20 minutes a fantastic one handed diving save by Darragh Murphy from a long range effort had the keeper flying across his goal mouth, one for the camera man from a rare Corrib Ranger foray forward. It was perhaps surprising when Rangers scored a screamer of a shot again with the wind behind it just after the half hour and ten minutes later much to the chagrin of Athenry's management they scored once again in similiar circumstances to equalize the game despite Athenry's dominance.
No substitutes at half time despite the 2-2 scoreline but this time Athenry would have the wind in their favour despite them not being unduly affected by it apart from Corrib's goals. Paddy Quinn up front was busy bringing Fahy & O'Donnell into the game and was unlucky not get more from an excellent cross put into the home teams box on 50 minutes which no one could get on to. Patric Evason getting forward regularly now showed what a powerful left foot he has on him when breaking down the left and unleashed a 40 yard screamer that just passed over the bar that had the keeper sprawling on the hour mark. The pressure gradually building now saw Athenry get the lead on 63 minutes when Gary Forde twisted this way then the other to score after good work from O'Halloran and Fahy. Again Athenry's defence was supreme when the home team broke through with Patric Evason's precision challenge in the box snuffing out the danger after covering thirty yards without a hint of tiredness. Stephen Rabbitte ably assisted by Ronan Kineen who won everything all afternoon and Mike Fahy were as solid as ever, this was highlighted after another Athenry shot from Forde went over the bar and Rangers attempted to break down the middle only for Kineen to block an on target shot. Still attacking Athenry's 'peter pan of soccer' Paddy Quinn shot just wide on 82 minutes when his perseverance perhaps deserved more and this was followed by the challenge of the day as another Evason sliding tackle powered the ball out of play when Rangers where looking dangerous just outside the visitors box. Still only 3-2 overall wasn't really a true reflection of the game and it was pleasing and re-assuring when Gary O'Donnell pounced upon a goalkeeping passing error which he finished cooly. Despite going 4-2 up Athenry didn't take their foot of the gas and Fahy put Forde through only for the ball to sail over the bar from distance, once again Rangers in a final flurry to the match broke in the 89th minute and who else but Patric Evason blocked the resultant shot. To end the match with Athenry now seeing out time Corrib had a final free kick just outside the box which flew over the bar. Another 4-2 win but a more pleasing one than last week seeing it brings Athenry up to 3rd in the table and the opposition who were last season's league runners up.
Team- Darragh Murphy, Mike Fahy, Stephen Rabbitte, Ronan Kineen, Patric Evason, Aaron Van Niekerk, Cathal Fahy, Dermot O'Halloran, Gary Forde, Paddy Quinn, Gary O'Donnell.
SUBS- Mark Lawless, Aidan Fahy, Colm Kilkelly, Declan Egan, Kieran McCallion, Keith Loughnane
KEOGH GOAL PROVIDES A RAY OF HOPE
ATHENRY 1 - 4 MOYNE VILLA headford
x1 KEOGH
Match Report
The curse of the Under 17 A season struck again. A Thursday evening kick off under lights at Moyne Villa and 2 players injured during school on Thursday resulted in a last minute call to the under 16's to provide reinforcements.And the familiar story off the pitch was followed by the familiar story on the pitch. Athenry starting strongly, playing good football and creating the best of the early chances only to concede a soft opening goal and gradually the confidence drained from the team and the longer the game went on, the greater stranglehold Moyne Villa took on the game. Athenry produced flashes of quality, particularly through Aaron Flaherty down the right wing but it never looked enough. 2-0 down at half time and the usual collection of Athenry players checking bashed limbs to see if they would see out the second half. 4-0 during the second half and game over.
Difficult to take too many positives from this one. A slap on the back to the brave souls who battled to the end to keep the score down, chief among those Shane Kindregan, Daire Kennedy and Cian Mullen edging them out for Man of the Match. The truly bright point was Athenry’s first League goal of the season courtesy of Sean Keogh. Sean and Nico started to create a few chances late in the game and Sean deserved his goal and in truth it was a fine controlled powerful shot into the net to beat the Moyne Villa keeper. There is unfortunately no let up for Athenry to get their walking wounded back on the pitch with matches coming up in the next 2 weeks. Better things ahead we hope.
Athenry Team:
Goalkeeper - Sean Mooney
Defenders - Ryan O'Shaughnessy/Cian Mullen/Daire Kennedy/Shane Kindregan/Louis O’Hara
Mdfielders - Conor Moran/Aaron Flaherty/Kieran McCallion/John McGough/Stephen Parr
Forwards - Niko Mpweka/Jordan Lally/Sean Keogh
FAHY HATRICK SENDS EAST WEST
Athenry 4-2 East United GDSL premier league
Fahy x3, Quinn
Football is very much like a marriage, sometimes it can follow a pattern of a terrific honeymoon period where everything begins extremely well and all is going along swimmingly but then you may inadvertently forget an anniversary or a birthday even and your struggling from then on trying to get back on track but knowing in your heart of hearts that it will take an almighty effort to get back into the good books after a rocky period! Today's game of soccer between a still unbeaten Athenry team and an dogged East United team featuring former Galway United U19 players Luke Deacy & Daragh Kelly seemed to follow such a scenario.
Athenry went into the game after a period of inactivity over the last couple of weeks but it didn't seem to have affected them when a Cathal Fahy penalty after only 5 minutes settled the home team. After 8 minutes another Fahy shot from range found its target to put real daylight between each team and Athenry looked like they were on course for a rout and it could have gotten even worse for the visitors when Gary O'Donnell was unlucky to shoot wide after some good approach play by Athenry in the 15th minute despite the weather conditions deteriorating. Confirmation of Athenry's dominance came on 18 minutes when a speculative Paddy Quinn daisy cutter somehow was fumbled by the East goal tender to give a seemingly unasailable 3 nil scoreline. On 20 minutes Mike Fahy fed Brian Murphy who gave an incisive through ball for the omnipotent Cathal Fahy to run onto but he ran into a cul de sac of players and this attack was thwarted. After swapping wings Murphy & Forde began to get forward more and started to cause problems for the visitors and with another Cathal Fahy effort bouncing off the bar it looked ominous for United, in fact it was surprising that East came back into the game when they were awarded a penalty from minimal contact in the penalty area and duly scored from the spot to bring the score to 3-1 after 40 minutes.
Half time arrived and some stern warnings from the management team as the rain pelted down, 55 minutes in Gary Fordes delightful lob hit the crossbar to bounce away to safety but the high intensity of the match seemed to sap some of the maroon boys, Athenry introduced Mark Lawless up front as a replacement for a tiring Gary O'Donnell who had run himself ragged all morning. Instead of collapsing East responded and were soon back in the game on the hour mark to make it an uncomfortable 3-2 but once again Athenry were given a lifeline as a tired looking challenge on midfielder Fahy by East's left back resulted in another penalty which was calmly slotted home by the hat trick hero to restore a two goal cushion. There then followed a period of East bossing the midfield area as Athenry's defence came under a lot of pressure. As passes went astray a couple of more substitutions by the Athenry management to give a bit more energy to the proceedings seemed to get Athenry moving the ball forward again with Paddy Quinn almost releasing Patric Evason in on goal in the final few minutes the pass rather unkindly falling behind him as he made his run.
With the pitch very wet and the game taking place in almost monsoon style weather at times it wasn't surprising that the game wasn't an advert for free flowing football, yes it became scrappy after Athenry's sublime first 20 minutes, yes if East were more accomplished opposition then Athenry could have been in trouble but a win is a win and a win gives you three points regardless how it was achieved, what Athenry will attempt to do as put in the after match team talk is to play the Athenry way, a passing style that brings all players in all positions into the game, it is pleasing to the eye and excites, very much like those early years of wedded bliss!!!
TEAM- darragh murphy, dermot o'halloran, stephen rabbitte, ronan kineen, mike fahy, gary forde, cathal fahy, brian murphy, jamie o'driscoll, paddy quinn, gary o'donnell. Subs colm kilkelly, patric evason, mark lawless, declan egan, aidan fahy, kieran mccallion
MAN OF THE MATCH MOONEY CANT STEM THE FLOW
Athenry A 0-2 Colga A
Match Report
What do the Athenry U17A Coaches have in common with the Real Madrid coach? They both have to make a great team out of a bunch of great players! For now, I’m afraid the Real Madrid coach is having the better luck. Colga should have been comfortable opposition, made even more so when their strongest forward talked himself off the pitch, but they were better organised than Athenry and coupled with some poor Athenry finishing enabled Colga to finish with all the points. The game started with Colga trying to get the ball quickly to their front line and Athenry also trying to cope with the Colga front line, not surprisingly on a far from perfect pitch a mistake was made by the Athenry rear guard and Colga capitalised and put the ball past an understandably frustrated Athenry goalkeeper Sean Mooney. Athenry didn’t lose heart from this and still continued to play the ball out from the back and the superiority of their play soon became evident. Athenry had a number of injury worries and only one subsitute who was used fairly early on in the game when Kieran McCallion had to kneel down by the touch line and say goodbye to his dinner! The half ended 1-0 in favour of Colga but how it did is a bit of a mystery with Athenry having a number of half chances and at least two clear cut chances, none of which resulted in even a shot on target.
The second half carried on where the first left off. Intelligent running by the wide backs Aaron Flaherty and Shane Kindregan, setting up chances and with Conor Moran, Sean Keogh, Daire Kennedy and particularly Diarmuid Newell dominating midfield Colga mainly held solid at the back and when the back line was pierced somehow the telling strike just wouldn’t come. As full time approached Athenry got more desperate and as they pushed more players forward they were caught on the break and it was game over. Athenry were so superior in almost every area of the pitch that it made this defeat that bit harder to take, but comfort can be taken from a lot of the football played, the excellent performance of Diarmuid Newell who started off very impressively in defence and took the same standards into midfield after Kieran’s departure was pipped for Man of the Match by the ever reliable Sean Mooney who didn’t put a foot wrong and could do nothing about the goals that were conceded. Sean will be entitled to expect better protection for the rest of the season.
ATHENRY TEAM
Goal- Sean Mooney
Def- Ryan O'Shaughnessy/Cian Mullen/Aaron Flaherty/Shane Kindregan/Diarmuid Newell
Mid- Conor Moran/Daire Kennedy/Kieran McCallion/Sean Keogh
For- Cian Burke/Jordan Lally
COFFEY FAILS TO REVIVE ATHENRY
EAST UTD 2-1 ATHENRY FC
On a damp misty day in Castlepark, Athenry B's fell to a 2-1 defeat against East Utd B in very spirited display. As the team left Moanbaun for Galway the change in weather was an ominous sign that a tough day lay ahead for our team. Despite a couple of players frequenting the nightclub scene in Galway till the early hours of Saturday morning, a squad of 13 players togged out for what was hoped to be their 2nd win of the season and bring to an end a run of 2 successive defeats.
Playing in manager Roger Leggett's enforced 4-3-3 formation, Athenry dominated the early exchanges. With Neville Hynes, Dermot and Gary Coffey controlling midfield, Athenry created some early scoring opportunities. The front three of Conor O'Grady, Greg Osbourne and Adrian "Halo" Doran took the game to the East defence with Osbourne coming close to opening the scoring after 15 minutes. However for all Athenrys possession East scored direct from a free kick 30 yards from goal which deceived goalkeeper Kieran Cummins as it swerved viciously on its way to the net.
Despite being 1 nil down at half time Athenry emerged in the second half and produced some excellent passages of play. The defence of Sean Flaherty and Michael McNellis commanded both in the air and on the ground and with full backs Austin Breathnach and Damien "Halo2" providing overlaps along the wings, Athenry went in search of a much deserved equaliser. Athenry should have had a blatant penalty after "Halo" Doran was brought down in the box after a cross from O'Grady. However referee PJ Norman dismissed the claims as a "coming together" and waved play on. A header from an off-balance O'Grady nearly tied the scores but East were to pounce again and went 2-0 up shortly after.
With subs Neil Murphy and Bartley ("rolling back the years") bringing fresh legs onto the pitch Athenry were awarded a penalty after Coffey was brought down in the box and he duly dusted himself down and slotted the penalty into the bottom right hand corner. Athenry dominated the remainder of the game with East resorting to kicking balls into the corners in order to waste valuable time. Full time came too early for our lads as they dominated the final 10 minutes but an equaliser never materialised. A lot can be taken from the defeat, some good possession football and an increase in fitness levels will bring Athenry into their match next Saturday at home to West Coast Utd with some confidence.
Report-Conor O'Grady
U18 ATHENRY DEFEATED IN SCORCHING HEAT
Athenry 2-4 Salthill Devon
Athenry were defeated by 9-man Salthill Devon in the scorching heat in Raheen on Sunday. Athenry were unlucky to lose but some lapses in the defence cost them greatly.
In the first half Athenry were on top with Martin Ward having a few long range shots that troubled the Salthill goalkeeper. Martin’s persistence eventually paid off as he received the ball about 25 yards out from goal and his shot bulleted past the goalkeeper into the corner of goal. However 10 minutes later Salthill were level. The ball was whipped in from the corner and Athenry failed to clear their lines and the Salthill defender headed the ball into the roof of the net. Five minutes later Salthill were in again with the striker chipping the Athenry keeper Andrew Lynskey, he was sure he had scored but a magnificent goal line clearance by Michael McNelis kept it at 1-1. Salthill did however get their second before the break after the striker got past the defence.
In the second half the intensity of the match increased greatly. Most of the action came in the midfield area but Padraig Corcoran and Martin Ward battled brilliantly. Athenry had some great chances but the fingertips of the Salthill goalkeeper stopped Martin and Shane Ward from getting their names on the scoresheet. The killer blow was landed with 20 minutes remaining when another lapse in the Athenry defence let the Salthill winger through to place the ball into the top corner. Athenry responded well though and got a goal from a corner to keep them in the game. The ball was whipped in and Sean Stewart rose to head the ball and rattled it off the crossbar, luckily Shane Ward was there to hit in the rebound. As Athenry pressed, they were left more open at the back and were eventually punished as Salthill scored their fourth goal of the afternoon. Athenry never recovered and the game finished 4-2 to Salthill.
Report: Niall Moran
Team: Andrew Lynskey, Conor Gavin, Michael McNelis, Sean Stewart, Mark Kilkenny, Shane Ward, Martin Ward, Padraig Corcoran, Jamie Cronin, Darren Keady. Subs: Declan Egan, Niall Moran.
RONAN SEALS THE DEAL FOR U15 ATHENRY.
ATHENRY 3-2 KNOCKNACARRA
Athenry U15’s played Knocknacara today in Athenry. Knocknacara got off to a good start with the opening goal but it was not to long until Odhran Monoghan equalised it with a cracker into the bottom left corner. No further goals came and at half time the scoreline was 1-1.
Colm Brannigan got the team motivated with an inspirational speech on the sideline and the lads went out there wanting it more than Knocknacara and they played their hearts out for the half. Athenry made two substitutions, bringing on Evan Loughnane and Louis Grey for Keith Hession and Gary Moscarelli.
The lads played a good game but it was time to bring on fresh legs up front. The ball came flying in from a free kick taken by Odhran Monoghan but it was caught by the Knocknacara goalkeeper but he didn’t have it long when Louis Grey ran into the keeper knocking the ball out of his hands and into the back of the net. From then on the game was looking very one sided as there was not very much time left. Knocknacara had a lot of shots at goal in the short time but they were blocked by the excellent Athenry goalkeeper Leon DeBurca. The game was just about to end and Athenry would have had their first win of the season but a Knocknacara striker ran up the side of the pitch and rocketed the ball into the bottom left corner to keep them in the game. The referee blew the whistle signalling that it was time for extra-time.
The lads gathered around to listen to their manager and what he had to say and they refuelled themselves with their water and got back on to the pitch for extra-time. The first half of extra-time was very calm and scoreless. The referee blew his whistle after ten minutes and told the players to swap sides with no delay.
It was a nail biting encounter with many chances for a goal from both sides. It was looking like penalties for sure. The referee signalled the players that there was only two minuets left. Athenry’s substitute Ronan Bergin got hold of the ball. There was 3 Knocknacara men chasing him and one defender on front. He went passed the defender and was one on one with the goalkeeper. Ronan just passed the ball into the bottom left corner to seal the deal for Athenry. It was a great first win for Athenry.
LATE EQUALIZER SCUPPERS A GRAND EVENING OUT
ST PATRICKS 1-1 ATHENRY 'A' (gdsl premier)
HEADFORD........FAHY x1
Athenry Senior A went to Moyne Villa's ground to play an away game under lights against St Patricks of Caherlistrane in a re-arranged venue and fixture. The match looked like it would be a good evening for Athenry when a Cathal Fahy goal inside 5 minutes seemed to set the team on its way, after good approach play by Gary Forde who sent in a cross from the left wing Fahy's close range shot was parried by the keeper back into his path and the Athenry midfielder finished with aplomb fronm the rebound. On 10 minutes a strong Paddy Quinn run down what appeared the entire right wing passing 3 defenders in the process was unlucky not to yield a better result. With 20 minutes of the match gone Athenry were in the ascendancy with O'Donnell feeding Paddy Quinn who crossed to Gary Forde who unfortunately couldn't connect with it, this was followed up by another Fahy shot that the keeper did well to hold. Not that it was all one way traffic with a brave Darragh Murphy saving from a cross when under pressure and then being saved by the woodwork when St Patricks had a good spell in the game but this spell was sandwiched between Athenry pressure that just couldn't yield a second goal. With the Athenry defence breaking up attacks it was on 40 minutes when yet another Athenry shot this time from Paddy Quinn was just wide. On 42 minutes a long ball from Gary O'Donnell gave Damien Rooney a headed chance which went over and this was followed a dangerous Gary O'Donnell cross which once again was caught by the keeper and this closed out the half with St Patricks being the more grateful for the whistle.
After the turn around on 50 minutes two quick successive shots by Gary Forde threatened to put the game to bed and coupled with good defensive work from Ronan Kineen and his back 4 it looked only a matter of time before Athenry's tally would be doubled especially after another Fahy hand stinger from short range, but St Patricks had other ideas and as the Athenry midfield begun to tire the home team sensed they could get something from the game and gained confidence from it. Indeed for much of the remainder of the half Athenry knew they now had a game on their hands and it was all hands to the pump for the last 20 minutes with St Patricks firstly missing a close range header and then on 87 minutes after another break down the visitors right wing a daisy cutter of a shot just outside the penalty box beat Murphy cannoning in of the goalkeepers near post to end a match that promised much but ultimately only delivered a single point. Positives to be taken should be that Athenry are still unbeaten so far but too many draws at this early stage of the season could be a sign that Athenry need to find a cutting edge sooner rather than later to keep touch with Mervue whom they meet next.
DARRAGH MURPHY, PATRIC EVASON, RONAN KINEEN, STEPHEN RABBITTE, MIKE FAHY, CATHAL FAHY, JAMIE O'DRISCOLL, GARY FORDE, DAMIEN ROONEY, PADDY QUINN, GARY O'DONNELL, Subs. MARK LAWLESS, NIAL CONCANNON, AIDAN FAHY, DECLAN EGAN
ITS A BREEZE FOR O'DRISCOLL IN CUP
ATHENRY SENIOR A 4-1 OUGHTERARD (FAI JUNIOR CUP 2nd Rd)
MOANBAUN
Jamie O'Driscoll x2,
Gary O'Donnell x1,
Cathal Fahy x1
Athenry Senior A continued their good run of form with a comfortable home performance at Moanbaun today, they took on a game Oughterard side who certainly showed that they can play football. With the match kicking of in breezy conditions it was Oughterard who would have the benefit of the wind to their backs in the first half. Despite this advantage it was Athenry's Jamie O'Driscoll who showed the way with the first goal on five minutes from a tenacious run and cross from Gary O'Donnell who stayed on his feet barging his way through a series of challenges as he cut in on the right wing, the cross flew into the box and past the static defence to present O'Driscoll with a sweet drive into the net. With the wind a big factor it was no surprise that Oughterard despite this early set back still showed what they were capable off with an excellent free kick which Darragh Murphy acrobatically tipped over the bar an indication of the growing confidence and stature this young keeper has.
Good running and passing was still the order of the day as Athenry kept the tempo up who once again showed how tough their defence is to breach with both full backs Mike Fahy & Patric Evason stemming Oughterards attempts to get near Athenry's goal and any time they did the two centre halfs mopped up any danger at the back with consumate ease reducing the Oughterard attack to a series of set pieces and off target long range shots. Athenry went further ahead on 33 minutes when a Gary O'Donnell low header scrambled the ball into the net from a floated free kick despite the attention of the visitors defence. As the half drew to a conclusion it was O'Driscoll who once again found the net capping a great first half performance with a speculative volley from a cross from the left wing.
The second half began with much the same tempo as the first and Athenry went further ahead shortly into the half when Cathal Fahy buried a placed shot low to the keepers right to effectively end the game as a contest. As the game progressed into the 65th minute Fahy released O'Donnell but his chip over the keeper was too high and went over the bar, any complacency that may have entered into the Athenry mindset was put to one side as on 70 minutes Oughterard's No5 scampered through the Athenry backline with a mazy run only to see his shot go narrowly wide, Athenry countered and Gary O'Donnell was unlucky to see his shot drift wide after good approach play that saw both subs Mark Lawless & Aidan Fahy combine to set this chance up. Oughterard still never gave up and where rewarded with a penalty for a challenge in the box which gave them a consolation goal they deserved for their much improved second half performance. There was still time for a close range Mark Lawless shot that the keeper smothered and as the match concluded Athenry can look forward to another third round tie in this illustrious competition.
Team- Darragh Murphy, Mike Fahy, Damien Rooney, Ronan Kineen, Patric Evason, Niall Concannon, Jamie O'Driscoll, Cathal Fahy, Gary Forde, Paddy Quinn, Gary O'Donnell. Subs Aidan Fahy, Mark Lawless, Dermot O'Halloran, Kieran Barrett, Stephen Rabbitte
EMMET RUANE'S CORRIBS DAY IN ANNAGHDOWN
Corrib Celtic 0 - 3 Athenry u13B
Annaghdown..........Niall Dooley x1
.......................... .Emmet Ruane x2
It was a long drive down to Corrib Celtic on saturday but it was well worth the spin as Athenry put on a great display winning 3-0.
In the first half Athenry defended brilliantly with great performances from Conor Moran and Aaron Jayakamur while Cian Coffey and Jack Maguire were always back to help out. Corrib Celtic found it very hard to deal with Oisin Fox on the wing. Even though Athenry were playing great, the first half finished 0-0. Then Athenry grew in confidence with Emmet Ruane scoring early in the second half. Athenry brought on James Duggen, Ronan Cooely and Kilian Flynn. With the fresh legs Emmet Ruane scored another great goal chipping the keeper. The luck kept coming for Athenry, when Niall Dooley got round his man and then the goal keeper and put it in the back of the net with his left foot. Athenry closed out the game comfortably with great displays from Christopher Rabbitte, Conor Keane, Cian Kelly and a great debut from goalkeeper Henrik Cardoza, Jack Maguire could have got man of the match for his excellent all round performance on the day but it was awarded to Emmett Ruane for his two great goals.
Athenry:1.Henrik Cardoza 2.Conor Keane 3.Conor Moran 4.Aaron Jayakamar 5.Christopher Rabbitte(C) 6.Oisin Fox 7.Cian Coffey 8.Jack Maguire 9.Emmett Ruane 10.Niall Dooley 11.Cian Kelly 12.Ronan Cooley 13.Cilian Flynn 14.James Duggan Report: Cian Coffey
GABRIELS MEN GIVE LADY'S BOYS A SHOW !!!
ATHENRY 'A' 5 - 0 OUR LADYS'S BOYS CLUB (gdsl premier)
GARY O'DONNELL x2
CATHAL FAHY x3
This convincing win came as much from good solid defending as from the five goals that Athenry scored with consumate ease without reply. Indeed but for a bit more luck the scoreline would have been more flattering for the home team. The early opener courtesy of a flash of inspiration by Gary O'Donnell settled the team and was certainly scant reward for the sheer amount of possession and dominance that Athenry had as OLBC found it difficult to live with Athenrys quick passing and running game and it was surprising that Athenry's next two goals to see out the first half 3 nil came from a couple of set pieces despite the passing game that Athenry always attempt to play. These came courtesy of two superbly crafted Cathal Fahy free kicks that both passed through the opposition wall like they weren't there with the latter coming towards the end of the half.
With Fahy and Gary Forde still dominating the midfield at the turn around and the marauding Paddy Quinn operating as a true No.10 linking up play with forward Gary O'Donnell it was no surprise that Athenry extended their lead to stop any lingering doubts a dogged OLBC had of getting back into the game with a superb through ball letting Cathal Fahy cap a fine performance on the day with a well taken shot as he ran at the OLBC box whose defence opened up and failed to get in a blocking tackle. Whenever OLBC tried to get any semblance of an attack it was quickly snuffed out by the imperious Damien Rooney & Ronan Kineen and despite attempts to get around the defence both backs Mike Fahy & Patric Evason coped comfortably all match. At every opportunity Gary Forde was trying to release Athenry runners and it wasn't long before a superb through ball from Gary Forde released an energetic Gary O'Donnell to scamper into the opposition box and despite a clip from the keeper who got a yellow card for his troubles he finished superbly after rounding the keeper to complete the rout. As the game wore on to its ultimate conclusion Athenry took their foot off the gas but still threatened and again a harsh offside call stopped sub Mark Lawless from running through on goal again after some good approach play from Athenry who quickly turned defence into attack.
As the game concluded it was perhaps telling that Athenrys mixture of experience and youth seems to be starting to gel with Darragh Murphy particularly comfortable in goal this afternoon owing as much to a very strong looking back four who were supreme all game and to some profligate finishing from an Our Lady's team who have yet to register a league goal this season in competitive games, Athenry will have more difficult home games to come but a comfortable win is a good win and to remain unbeaten must give manager Gabriel Glavin a little extra spring in his step as he looks forward to the next game.
Team- Darragh Murphy, Mike Fahy, Damien Rooney, Ronan Kineen, Patric Evason, Anthony Conneelly, Gary Forde, Cathal Fahy, Niall Concannon, Paddy Quinn, Gary O'Donnell. Subs Mark Lawless, Jamie O'Driscoll, Aidan Fahy, Dara Glynn, Declan Egan, Kieran Barrett, Kieran McCallion
ARCHIVED MATCH REPORTS 2012/13
Athenry B 0 - 2 Kilshanvey A
Athenry Team:
Goalkeeper Niall Moran/Cillian Howard
Defenders Jack Leech/Eoin Burke/Darragh Bergin/Sean Fitzsimmons/Jack Roche
Midfielders Matthew Deacon/Eoghan Keane/Liam Moran/Liam O’Grady
Forwards Cian Burke/Daniel Regan/Oliver Rabbitte
Match Report
This game said much about the improvement in this squad of players. Kilshanvey put 6 past Athenry early in the season and it could have been double that. Today a weakened Athenry team a
MICHAEL BYRNE CUP FINAL, 18TH MAY 2013 ATHENRY 2 - 1 CORRIB RANGERS
Athenry finished their season in style by lifting the Michael Byrne Cup in Drom in front of a sizeable crowd. This may also have been manager Gabriel Glavins final game with this squad and if so then he can reflect on a management career with much achieved and a sound base for the next incumbent to build on.
Athenry's Gary O’Donnell spurned an early chance to score from close range and Rangers looked decidedly second best for much of the first half with Cathal Fahy, Aaron van Niekerk and Gary Forde well on top in the midfield exchanges. This dominance finally paid dividends on 28 minutes when a Forde free was nodded home by Steven Rabbitte. Rangers began to compete and were awarded a penalty on 36 minutes which was duly converted. The half closed with an Andrew Walsh save, the only time in the half where the Athenry custodian was called into serious action from open play.
Rabbitte and his centre back partner Ronan Killeen continued to be the rock on which much of the Rangers attacks foundered in the second half, with full backs Anthony Conneely and Paddy Quinn instrumental in starting attacks and providing width. Ray Moran battled for everything in midfield but was not moving freely and had to be replaced as the half progressed. Conor Cannon and O’Donnell were a constant threat and Rangers had the bulk of their 4 yellow cards and their 85th minute red card issued as a result of fouls on these two.
The win hinged on a 68th minute penalty decision awarded when a raiding Van Niekerk was bowled over in the box when trying to latch onto a Cannon through ball. Rangers were incensed but Rabbitte showed a cool head and hammered home his second of the game. Indeed he could have had the match ball but side-netted from a corner on 82 minutes. Sub Niall Concannon could also have scored with minutes left and a goal line clearance by O’Gorman on 90mins secured the win.
Unused subs Mark Lawless, Kevin Culkin, Darragh Murphy and Kieran Barrett deservedly collected medals for their important involvement through what has been a demanding season. Mascot for the day was Shane Quinn.
ATHENRY SENIORS INTO THE MICHAEL BYRNE CUP FINAL
Athenry booked a place in the Michael Byrne Cup Final against Corrib Rangers by beating Salthill Devon 5-2 in the semi final. Athenry started well and a Paddy Quinn near post header from a Seamie Crowe corner on 13mins was added to on 31mins when Conor Cannon blasted home from a tight angle. Gary O'Donnell then rounded the keeper on 33mins from Cathal Fahys astute pass but just before the break Salthill converted from a corner to remind Athenry that this would not be as easy as the scoreline made it look. O'Donnell scored his second on 49mins but Salthill continued to compete in midfield and got a deserved second on 68mins and were unlucky to have a third ruled out for offside on 80mins. Athenry finished strongly and O'Donnell claimed the match ball with his third goal as the game went into added time.
U16 Athenry B 3-2 West Coast A
Athenry Team:
Goalkeeper - Daniel Regan
Defenders - Jack Leech/Eoghan Burke/Con Courtney/Darragh Bergin/Sean Stewart
Midfielders - Matthew Deacon/Eoghan Keane/Liam Moran/Liam O’Grady/Liam Sheehan
Forwards - Cian Burke/Daniel Rooney/Oscar Libucha
Let’s get the negatives out of the way first. Another slow Athenry start saw stand in keeper Daniel Regan, picking the ball out of the net wih only one Athenry player having touched the ball and the sound of the opening whistle still echoing round the pitch.
What followed was magnificent. With a gale blowing and parts of the pitch virtually unplayable because of rain, it was not a match for the artist; it was a game when you called on your tanks and the Athenry tanks rolled over West Coast. It was a ding dong battle from the first minute. Athenry had the wind in the first half but West Coast made the better chances. Daniel Regan proved himself more than just a stand in as he repeatedly came off his line to clear danger, at one stage doing so from only just in his own half. At the other end the West Coast defence seemed to be coping with all that Daniel Rooney, Cian Burke and Matthew Deacon were throwing at them but Athenry maintained the pressure and midway through the first half Athenry forced a corner and another quality Liam O’Grady delivery found an unmarked Sean Stewart in the West Coast box and his bullet header could only be parried into the net by the keeper to bring Athenry level. Athenry started to get the better of things then but knew they needed a lead to take into the second half when they would be facing a rising wind. Athenry got their reward when Daniel Rooney threw himself into an attempted clearance by the West Coast defender and the ball broke for Cian Burke to calmly give Athenry a 2-1 lead which they kept to half time.
Sleeves rolled up, Athenry took to the field for the second half and defended like Trojans. The whole team, at different times were forced into repeated tough tacklng and they weren’t found wanting as attack after attack was repelled and when West Coast were forced into long range shooting they found the unflappable Daniel Regan more than capable and his strong kick-outs against the wind were setting up Athenry’s best chances. West Coast took more risks as they pushed players higher up the pitch to take advantage of the wind and it became end to end stuff. Pressure told and a West Coast corner eluded Daniel Regan and West Coast were able to bring the match level. Time was ticking on and West Coast were pressing for the winner but the defence held firm. The strengthening wind regularly delivered possession to Daniel in goal and he was finding Matthew and Cian regularly to keep the West Coast defence on its toes. With 5 minutes left Matthew Deacon took on the defence and between himself and Cian the ball found its way to Matthew with the keeper nowhere in sight but his shot curled the wrong side of the post. With 2 minutes left , it was deja-vu as Daniel delivered to Matthew and Matthew set off from the right and powered past the West Coast defence , the ball ricocheted around, Cian Burke threw himself at a West Coast clearance, the ball landed at Matthew’s feet 12 yards out and he unleashed a low hard drive past the keeper and into the bottom corner for a famous Athenry victory.
It is impossible to name the Athenry star players as that would mean naming the entire squad but Man of the Match honours were edged by Liam O’Grady who battled and ran for everything in an unaccustomed centre midfield position. 14 Athenry players left the pitch, some bloodied, some limping but all smiling and with their heads deservedly held high.
U16 Athenry B 2-1 Salthill B
Athenry Team:
Goalkeeper - Niall Moran/Cillian Howard
Defenders - Jack Roche/Daniel Rooney/Darragh Bergin/Sean Stewart/Kevin Holland
Midfielders - Matthew Deacon/Eoghan Keane/Liam Moran/Jack Leech
Forwards - Cian Burke/Liam O’Grady/Oscar Libucha
Athenry’s pre-match routine was interrupted so they could get some pictures taken before their first home game in their new CPH Plant Hire sponsored kit with Martin Keane of CPH Plant Hire. The team and the club would like to thank Martin for his generous support which is greatly appreciated.
The best way to celebrate the new look would be with the first ever victory over Salthill B but that was a big ask. Athenry, as usual, started slowly and Salthill had the early chances but resolute, last-ditch defending kept the Athenry goal intact. Athenry worked their way back into the game and started creating chances of their own. The pace of Cian Burke and Matthew Deacon was, not for the first time this season, proving to be a big headache for the opposition defence and they were being well found with telling passes from Eoghan Keane, Jack Leech and Liam O’Grady. The Athenry pressure finally paid off when Cian Burke added to his growing reputation with another fine finish for his third of the season. This galvanised Athenry even further and from the restart they tore into Salthill from all areas of the pitch. Difficult chances were created and the Salthill defence struggled to keep Athenry out. As half time approached it looked like Athenry would have to settle for their one goal advantage but Salthill conceded a corner and another pin point delivery from Liam O’Grady was bravely headed into the top corner by Liam Moran for a 2-0 lead which was the way it stayed til half time.
The second half was a much more even affair and both sides had chances to add to the score line . Eventually Salthill pressure paid off when a penalty was harshly awarded against Darragh Bergin and for the second game in a row Cillian Howard faced an opponent from 12 yards. Unfortunately , it was the same result as the previous match. Salthill were getting on top now and Cian Burke was asked to sacrifice his goal scoring opportunities and use his speed against the main Salthill striker whose pace was causing the Athenry defence problems. The Salthill chances dried up as Cian finished off a Man of the Match performance by eventually forcing the Salthill man to retreat to his own half. Salthill still had the bulk of the chances, mainly from frees and corners but Athenry have become very strong defensively and battling performances from the entire team up to Oscar Libucha in attack who became the first line of defence saw Athenry get a deserved hard fought victory.
7 UP FOR ATHENRY U15'S !!!
Friday 19th April Result:- Athenry 7 Salthill Devon 0
On a heavy pitch Salthill Devon created three or four chances in the first ten minutes of the game but due to good defending by Athenry and poor finishing from Salthill. Once George White settled into his new position in midfield Athenry started to show good passing skills. After twenty minutes Athenry got their first free kick just outside the box and Odhran Monaghan riffled it in to the left hand corner of the net to give Athenry the lead. Athenry continued their good work and Joseph Gray whipped in a great cross for Aaron Leggett to score a glancing header. From the kick off Athenry pressed forward yet again and Thomas Kelly sent a high ball in from the corner which landed in the back of the net. Immediately after that Athenry were on the attack again and Joseph Gray scored his second goal leaving Athenry ahead by 4 nil at half time.
The second half began with Salthill pressing for a score but Athenry's defenders Daragh Daly and Sean Fitzsimons defended superbly in keeping the ball out. George White in midfield was having a super game winning the ball and passing to the wingers. Joseph Gray yet again made a fantastic run down the right wing and landed a cracker in the back of the net to leave Athenry leading by 5. Despite Salthill's pressing for goal, Athenry kept the pressure on with Joseph Gray sending a cross in which hit the Salthill's defender which resulted in an own goal. Once again Salthill attempted to score but Athenry's defenders made sure they didn't get passed them and once again Athenry kept attacking which resulted in Athenry's 7th goal by Odhran Monaghan.
DOUBLE HATRICKS SCUPPER RANGERS
U15 Athenry 7 V 4 Corrib Rangers Date: 23/03/13 Venue: Westside
Athenry travelled to Westside to take on Corrib Rangers in their sixth league game of the season and they didn’t disappoint. Athenry opened the scoring 10 minutes into the game with a cross from Thomas Kelly which fooled the keeper to leave an open goal for Oliver Rabbitt to put Athenry into the lead. Athenry then let their lead slip with poor defending from a corner and found themselves behind against the run of play but Athenry kept focused with good attacking play. Corrib Rangers’ defence was weakening when Oliver Rabbitt grabbed his second goal of the game to put the teams level at half time.
Athenry continued playing good football with excellent attacking play down the right by Joseph Gray. Athenry then took the lead to make it 3-2 with Nyiko Mbekwa scoring with an unfortunate error by the Corrib Rangers’ keeper. Athenry then stormed into a 5-2 lead with two quick successive goals from Nyiko to complete his hat-trick. Corrib Rangers then came back to make it 5-3 but Athenry didn’t disappoint and continued to play good attacks with Thomas Kelly down the left combining with Sean Fitzsimons to give Athenry a 3 goal lead. Corrib Rangers did not give up hope and with an excellent through ball to score their fourth to make it 6-4. Credit to Corrib Rangers they kept on pressing but it was Athenry’s counter-attacking football where Olive Rabbitt chipped the keeper from 25 yards to score the goal of the game and complete his hat-trick.
Scorers: Nyiko Mbekwa – 3; Oliver Rabbitt – 3; Sean Fitzsimons 1
Goalkeeper Niall Cannon
Defenders Aaron Collins,, Sean Fitzsimons, Darragh Daly, Liam Sheehan
Midfielders Joseph Gray, Louis O’Hara, Aaron Leggett, Thomas Kelly
Forwards Nyiko Mbekwa, Oliver Rabbitt
Subs Briain Doherty, Owen Davey, Oisin Cooley
Get involved in competitions
RABBITTES PERFORMANCE UNABLE TO SAVE THE DAY
One of the most notable achievements this season was the u12's march to the Connacht Cup semi-finals and on Saturday the team travelled to Mervue in a bid to reach an elusive final. Missing four regulars for a variety of reasons the team made light of this in the opening half with stand-in keeper Patrick Rabbitte particularily impressive under the high deliveries. Others to catch the eye were Ethan Flaherty, Eoin Lawless, James Bartley and Brandon Lee. However Mervue struck for the crucial opening goal 9 minutes after the break and Athenry were under constant pressure thereafter. They did manage to attack with purpose at times and both Lee and Lawless had shots saved. In the final minute of the game Mervue scored a second to put the result beyond doubt. Managers Gerry Treacy and John Donoghue can be proud of their teams efforts especially with so many key players missing.
U15's WIN IN THE NIKO OF TIME
The u15's progressed in their Shield competition, winning 4-2 away to Cregmore in damp misty conditions. The game started with a high tempo and both teams had chances before the Athenry keeper was shown a yellow card for denying a goal scoring opportunity for Cregmore. The game went on and Athenry got the first goal through an excellent through ball and a great finish. Cregmore came straight back into the game with a sluggish goal through poor defending by Athenry. Cregmore rallied on and got another goal just before half time . Athenry started well in the second half creating chances with an equaliser 15 minutes into the second half. Not long after Athenry took the lead to make it 3-2 and the game was rounded off with a fourth goal from Athenry to see them into the next round of the Shield.
Goal scorers; Niko Mpekoa 2; Aaron Leggett 1 and Oisin Cooley 1.
FLEET FOOTED DEACON A REVELATION FOR ATHENRY u16B's
Barna B 2 Athenry B 2
Athenry Team:
Goalkeeper Niall Moran
Defenders Ian Haverty / Jack Roche / Eoin Burke / Liam Moran
Midfielders Matthew Deacon / Eoghan Keane / Jack Leech / Darragh Bergin
Forwards Cian Burke / Liam O’Grady
Match Report
It was hard to decide at the end of this match whether it was a point gained or two points dropped but in the circumstances it certainly felt like the latter. It was a cold, wet, windy day and Athenry only had the bare 11 players so the pressure was on from the start and worse was to come as Cian Burke came into the game recovering from flu and he had to leave midway through the first half so the 10 men were up against it.
Athenry took the lead courtesy of Liam O’Grady who became the team’s top scorer for the season by pressurising the Barna defence and keeper and after a couple of blocked clearances he finished coolly. Barna equalised against the run of play and as they were going into the second half with a strengthening wind behind them the signs were ominous.
As the game progressed, Athenry were playing good constructive football with the midfield dominating on all sides. Darragh Bergin was holding solid and Jack Leech and Eoghan Keane were playing the sole striker Liam O’Grady through and supporting well. Matthew Deacon, debuting at right midfield was a revelation, terrorising Barna with his pace, strength and intelligent passing. Athenry’s play was rewarded when a good attacking move fell to Jack Leech who fired the ball into the top left hand corner of the net.
As the half progressed the wind increased to a gale and the Athenry defence were magnificent in their efforts to maintain their team’s lead. All looked to be worthwhile heading into injury time when a soft free kick was conceded on the far right of the pitch from which Niall misjudged the flight of the ball in the howling wind and it flew into the net and immediately after taking kick off the final whistle was blown.
Athenry heads were down in the dressing room after but there was much to be proud of , not least the Man of the Match performance from Matthew Deacon which bodes well for the rest of the season.
HAVERTY'S HEROICS UNABLE TO SAVE ATHENRY U16B's
Athenry B 0 Kilshanvey A 6
Athenry Team:
Goalkeeper Niall Moran
Defenders Ian Haverty / Jack Roche / Liam Moran / Sean Stewart
Midfielders Daniel Rooney / Darragh Bergin / Eoghan Keane / Jack Leech / Daniel Regan
Forwards Matthew Deacon / Cian Burke / Liam O’Grady / Oscar Libucha
Match Report
Athenry went into this game in good heart after their opening League win of the season but knowing little of the opposition who were in the League for the first time but had a good opening game win themselves. It soon became apparent that Kilshanvey were serious title contenders this season, physically big and strong and good on the ball. Despite this Athenry gave a good account of themselves and did not deserve to be on the end of a six goal beating. Yet again Matthew and Cian showed they were a threat to any team and gave a solid defence a few scares. Athenry’s defence performed manfully as usual, Sean Stewart, Liam Moran, Jack Roche and Ian Haverty putting their bodies on the line time and again to protect Niall in goal. Unfortunately the pressure told, Niall was beaten on 4 occasions in the first half despite Athenry’s best efforts.
The second half was a repeat of the first, the team working hard but unable to match a stronger outfit, particularly in midfield where Kilshanvey were able to dominate, particularly in the air.
Athenry’s cause wasn’t helped when moments after using their last substitute, Cian Burke picked up an injury and was unable to continue. Two goals conceded in the second half was a better indication of the difference between the teams and was still more than the defence deserved for their efforts. Sean, Liam and Jack were outstanding but Man of the Match was undoubtedly Ian Haverty who didn’t miss a tackle all day and was to be seen continuously driving out of defence with the ball looking to set up play further up the pitch. The signs are still good for the season ahead.
THE KEANE/BURKE SHOW PUT BARNA U16B's TO THE SWORD
Athenry B 3 Barna B 1
Athenry Team:
Goalkeeper Niall Moran / Cillian Howard
Defenders Ian Haverty / Jack Roche / Eoin Burke / Liam Moran / Sean Stewart / Kevin Holland
Midfielders Eoghan Keane / Jack Leech / Darragh Bergin / Daniel Rooney / Cian Burke / Daniel Regan / Kevin Lyons
Forwards Matthew Deacon / Cian Burke / Liam O’Grady / Oscar Libucha / Kevin Lyons
Match Report
It’s been a long time since Athenry opened the season with a win but this was an impressive way to start the campaign. Indeed it could have been easier. But it wouldn’t be Athenry without the usual sleepy start and almost from the kick off Barna had the ball in the net with a long range shot that the keeper couldn’t get to. It was all Athenry from then on with good football in midfield and up front where Matthew Deacon and Cian Burke broke the defence repeatedly ably supported by Jack Leech and Eoghan Keane. It was Matthew who squared the game with an alert finish after a good through ball left him with the goalkeeper to beat.
Half time was approaching with Barna wondering how they were still in the game but they went into the interval a goal behind after an early candidate for goal of the season. Cian Burke bore down on goal but was shepherded into the right hand side of the penalty box by the Barna defender. Cian turned and lifted the ball over the defender straight into the path of the onrushing Eoghan Keane who volleyed an unstoppable shot, first time, past the Barna keeper.
This was no more than Athenry deserved and they started the second half as they ended the first with chance after chance. Cian Burke, Daniel Regan and Matthew Deacon were all thwarted by a fine display by the Barna keeper but this season Athenry have strength in depth and were able to bring on a strong substitute in Liam O’Grady who put the result beyond doubt with a fine finish after a good team move.
It ended up being a very good start to the season but pride of place went to Man of the Match Eoghan Keane capped by his magnificent strike.
Bring on the season.
KILBARRACK EDGE OUT ATHENRY IN FAI JUNIOR CUP
Athenry exited this seasons FAI Junior Cup at the last 32 stage when losing 2-1 to last years finalists Kilbarrack Utd on Sunday. Weather conditions were far from ideal but both teams played constructive football and ultimately the unavailability of Seamie Crowe (injury), Gary Forde and Gary Delaney (both suspended) was a burden too much for Athenry to bear. A fine Andrew Walsh double save on 13mins was followed on 18mins by a Cathal Fahy shot which was parried by the Kilbarrack keeper. Both sides had lengthy periods of possession but neither goal was seriously threatened thereafter and it was goalless at the break. Five minutes into the second half Athenry attacked on the right flank and a low cross was handled by a slipping Kilbarrack fullback in the area. Alan O'Donovan dispatched the resultant spot kick and Athenry were good value at this point for their lead. Conor Cannon fluffed a chance to double the advantage on 73mins and Cathal Fahy was narrowly wide a few minutes later. However Kilbarrack continued to threaten and when Athenry failed to clear a corner on 82mins the Kilbarrack no 9 nodded home at the far post to level the tie.
Extra time opened with another Walsh save from the same player and Kilbarrack were now dominant. Their substitute midfielder was narrowly wide as the second half of the extra time started and with 6 minutes remaining a crisp passing move was finished to the Athenry net by another sub and Athenry had no response. Athenry manager Gabriel Glavin was philosophical at the end. "It is no disgrace to exit at this stage to a quality team like Kilbarrack and I cannot fault the effort of my lads on the day. Not having Seamie and the Garys was the difference in the end and we still have the league, Connacht Cup and Michael Byrne Cup to play for. The FAI Junior Cup will just have to wait!"
CANNON BLOWS OLBC AWAY
A great weekend and a great result with the 1st teams victory over OLBC on a hard-fought 2-1 scoreline which earned them a place in the next round of the FAI Junior Cup.
The match started well for Athenry with Conor Cannons 3rd minute cross deflecting off an OLBC player into the net and things got even better when Conor slotted home a low Gary Forde centre on 11 minutes. Defending this lead proved to be tricky as OLBC found their rythm and Athenry did well to get to the break without conceding considering Gary Fordes dismissal to a harsh 2nd yellow card on 43 minutes.
OLBC pressed hard for a goal and it duly came on 65 mins via a close-in finish that gave impressive keeper Andrew Walsh no chance. Controversy then surrounded a penalty incident on 78mins which was awarded to OLBC after Gary Delaney handled on the goal line to earn instant dismissal. The OLBC penalty taker struck the crossbar and netted the rebound but this was ruled out as nobody else had touched the ball and Athenry survived the remaining minutes.
EASY WIN FOR ATHENRY IN THE CUP
Athenrys Premier League team reinforced their status as cup specialists when easily defeating Renmore Utd 5-0 to advance in the FAI Junior Cup. Conor Cannon headed home on 13 minutes and a cracking Cathal Fahy strike just before the break gave the home side a comfortable lead with a second Fahy goal on the resumption killing the game as a contest. Further scores from Anthony O'Donnell and Benny Lawless added to the win and Athenry on this form are a team that other fancied sides will want to avoid in the next round. A notable feature of this cup tie was the poor level of home support with the visiting fans in the majority. All the Athenry teams, especially this First team that has brought so many honours to the community, deserve better support. This was a high standard game and at free admission was particularly good value!
ATHENRY FC MATCH REPORTS ARCHIVES PRE 2011/12 SEASON
March 6th 2010 Athenry V Barna B
Athenry 4 - Barna 1
Scorers for Athenry:
Steven Coleman 1 (penalty) Ronan Byrne (2) David Mangan (1)
Athenry Team
Goalkeeper - Conor Pokall
Defenders - Conor Gavin, Declan Egan, Mark Kilkelly, Michael McNellis
Midfielders - Jamie Cronin, Steven Coleman, Ronan Byrne, Stephen Callahan, Andrew Lynskey
Forwards - David Mangan
Subs:- Shane Ward John McGough, Cathal Murphy, Cathal Moran, Aaron Van NieKerk
Match Report
Barna B U13 Team came to Athenry for an early kick off time at 10am. It was a lovely morning but the cold weather the previous night meant the ground was fairly greasy on top. About ½ ways into the first half Barna was judged to have fouled Athenry in the box and Athenrys newly appointed Captain Steven Coleman took and scored the penalty giving Athenry the first goal of the match. From then on Athenry seemed to be in control of the match with Barna’s no 3 doing a great job of marking Athenry’s forward David Mangans run on goal.
Even so when Ronan Byrne put two goals away for Athenry there wasn’t any real danger of a comeback by Barna. David Mangan finally got his goal for Athenry to make it 4 nil before Barna getting and scoring a penalty of their own shortly before full time. The final score was Athenry 4, Barna 1 after a competitive and sporting performance by both teams.
31/01/10 Under 14 Premier League
Athenry 0-1 Moyne Villa
Team:
• Goalkeeper: Darragh Murphy
• Defenders: Darragh Keane (Shane Ward), Shane O’Reilly, Dermot O’Hallaron, Darragh Conlon.
• Midfielders: Thomas Hennelly, Ciaran O’Dwyer, Darragh Rohan, Darren Kelly (Aaron Van Niekerk)
• Strikers: Mark Donnellan (Ronan Byrne), Aaron Osborne.
Athenry began a crucial league match with their usual 4-4-2 formation seeking to gain a valuable 3 points against an on form Moyne Villa. Athenry came out victorious when the two teams previously met last season and were hoping for a similar result. The game started evenly as the ball travelled from one end of the field to the other with both teams exchanging chances.
Moyne Villa began to pick up the pace of the game and had a lot of possession but too little avail as the Athenry back line held strong. Darragh Keane controlled the left flank throughout the game whilst the ever fantastic Dermot O’Hallaron and highly reliable Shane O’Reilly commanded the centre of defence with Darragh Conlon working hard on the right as usual.
But, with about ten minutes to go until half time Moyne Villa found the back of the net due to a rare mix up between the Athenry back line, the Villa striker finishing well.
Athenry then controlled the later parts of the half especially in the middle of the park with Darragh Rohan winning plenty of possession in the air whilst Ciaran O’Dwyer battled well throughout the game as usual both in defence and going forward.
Darren Kelly and Thomas Hennelly were on the wings both exchanging passes well with new strike force Aaron Osborne and Mark Donnellan.
Half time came with Athenry trailing by a goal.
Gerry Kilkenny’s Half time talk once again had a big impact on the Athenry team who also had a change in tactics. Ronan Byrne coming on to replace Mark Donnellan.
The second half started like the first with the game ebbing and flowing with neither team creating many chances.
Villa spurned many free kick chances as they were unable to find a way past the ever-present Darragh Murphy in goal.
23/01/10 Athenry V Kilshanvey Utd
Athenry 3 – 1 Kilshanvey
Athenry Team
Goalkeeper - Conor Pokall
Defenders - Declan Egan, Steven Callanan, Shane Ward, Mark Kilkelly
Midfielders - Aaron Van NierKierk, Ronan Byrne, Cathal Murphy, Conor Gavin, Steven Coleman
Forwards- David Mangan
Subs: John McGough, Patrick Briggs, Cathal Moran, Jamie Cronin, Andrew Lynskey
Scorers: David Mangan, Cahill Moran, John McGough
Match Report
After a frosty night Kilahanvey U13 travelled to Athenry for a first time encounter. There was some question whether the ground had thawed enough before the 11 O Clock kick off but the referee had no objections. The game was hard fought but was scoreless for a long time until Athenry finally went ahead. A second followed shortly after as Kilshanvey seemed to be knocked by the first goal. Athenry got a bit carried away and started to move forward too much allowing Kilshanvey to catch them on the hop and the score was 2 to 1.Kilshanvey kept the momentum going so the 2 to one advantage that Athenry had didn’t seem enough, but when Athenry scored for the third time having settled down to basic football that seemed to kill of the game. That’s how the game ended. There was a bit of friction at times between the players but overall the game as played in a fair and competitive manner.
08/11/09
U14's Athenry Suffer Defeat To Strong Westport Side
On a damp Sundays afternoon Athenry under 14s set out to play a strong Westport side in the Irish cup.
Athenry were on hot form after wining two games on the bounce Vs Craughwell and Knocknacara. The team was as follows
Goalkeeper: Darragh Murphy
Defenders: Darragh Conlon, Shane O’Reilly, Dermot O’Hallaron, Darren Kelly
Midfielders: Ronan Byrne, Darragh Rohan, Ciaran O’Dwyer, Darren Daly
Strikers: Thomas Hennelly, Aaron Osborne
The game started poorly for Athenry as they were caught on the counter attack down the left wing inside the opening minutes and the Westport Right winger scored an exquisite goal from a tight angle leaving Darragh Murphy with no chance.
Minutes later Athenry found themselves 2 down due to a very similar goal to the first.
They were then dealt a further blow when Thomas Hennelly was substituted due to injury inside the opening 10 minutes, Andrew Collins his replacement. Athenry finally woke up and got to grips on the game and controlled the later parts of the first half. Ciaran O’Dwyer and Darragh Rohan battling well in midfield with Ronan Byrne and Darren Daly working hard on the wings. What could be described as clumsiness from the Athenry Defence led to Westport having many frees on the edge of the area but the ever fantastic (and in my opinion man of the match) Darragh Murphy was called into action several times to deny the Westport team further goals. Half time came and the score was 2-0 and a fair reflection on the game so far. Athenry would need to start the second half like they ended the first to have any chance of getting back in this game. It looked a bright start for several minutes but then Westport hit. 3 Goals in quick succession turned a tight game into a thrashing and left Gerry Kilkenny and Doc with no other choice than to introduce Simon Brody, who had been sick before the game. He didn’t show this though and put in a great performance. Darragh Keane was also introduced to tighten up the back line which looked very shaky throughout the game. With 25 minutes or so to go Athenry gained control and had some fantastic chances which weren’t converted. Darragh Conlon was switched from right back to striker to provide a more attacking force and add some pace up-front. Westport tried to take advantage of this but was denied by some defenders in specific including Darren Kelly and Shane O’Reilly who battled well throughout the game. Athenry were awarded a free-kick which Aaron Osborne swung in with fantastic pace and accuracy. Dermot O’Hallaron was on the end of it and finished well to give Athenry some consolation. The full time whistle went and Westport were worthy winners of this encounter. Westport are a team that are expected to go far in this competition. Athenry on the other hand can now concentrate on their Connacht cup encounter in two weeks time, the draw to take place soon. Athenry will need to make some signings in the January window if they are to improve their season.
31/10/09 U13'S INVOLVED IN CLASSIC
3-3 AET
Athenry 8 - 9 Salthill Devon on penalties
Athenry Team
Goalkeeper - Conor Pokall
Defenders - Cathal Murphy, Declan Egan, Steven Callanan, Michael McNellis
Midfielders - Shane Ward, Aaron Van NierKierk, Ronan Byrne, Martin Ward Jamie Cronin
Forwards - David Mangan
Subs:John McGough, Patrick Briggs, Cathal Moran, Conor Gavin,Stephen Coleman, Mark Kilkelly
Match Report
U13 Athenry lined out against U13 Salthill Devon B on Saturday 31st October. Having beaten them in this competition at U12 level but having been beaten by them in the U12 first division league. After their meetings last year we knew that this was going to be a great match but had underestimated how exciting it would turn out to be. Athenry opened the scoring, with Salthill equalising and then going one up a short time later. Athenry fought back against a well structured Salthill side and eventually David Mangan forced his way through for his and Athenrys 2nd goal with full time looming. The score at full-time stayed at 2 all so the teams were going to have to go to extra time.
During extra time Salthill went ahead with Salthill Number 11 causing all sorts of problems for Athenry as he had for the whole game. One of Athenrys most valuable players Shane Ward had to come off due to injury, but even after this big loss to the team Athenry continued to push forward and with seconds left on the clock got a free outside the box. Steven Callanan sent in a beautiful searching ball just in front of the goalies reach and when Aaron Van NierKierk got his head to it, the score was 3 – 3. The final whistle blew. It had come to penalties. Athenry thought that luck was still with them but when the referee judged that a save by the Athenry Goalie had to be retaken and one of Athenry penalties sailed over the bar they knew that they weren’t having it their own way. However, Aaron Van NieKierk in goal for Athenry pulled off a great save and forced sudden death. Athenry luck finally ran out though when the Salthill Goalie saved one of Athenry penalties and then Salthills final penalty taker scored theirs.
U13's Athenry 4 V 3 Maree/Oranmore Date: 10/10/09
Venue: Athenry
Scorers David Mangan (3), Patrick Briggs
Athenry Team
Goalkeeper Ciaran Devaney
Defenders Steven Callanan, Michael McNeilis, Mark Kilkenny, Declan Egan
Midfielders Shane Ward, Ronan Byrne, David Mangan, Conor Pokal, Aaron VanNieKerk, Martin Ward
Forward Ronan Byrne
Subs Cathal Moran, Cathal Murphy,Conor Gavin,John Mcgough, Patrick Briggs, Thomas Ward,
Match Report
A hat trick from David Mangan and a late winner from Patrick Briggs saw Athenry progress through to the next round of the league cup. In an end to end match both teams fought hard gain the upper hand, trading goals all the way through the match. The game started well for the home team after a set piece corner from the left by Steven Callanan was converted by David Mangans brilliant run and header in the early minutes. Athenry seemed to sit back and were punished after some hard work and pressure from Maree/Oranmore brought the desired results, at first equalising with some neat interplay and taking the lead when a nice through ball sent there striker through to neatly finish in the corner. Only hard work by the defence and some brave goalkeeping from Ciaran Devaney, as well as a little bit of luck, kept Athenry in the game. Shortly before half time, Devaney was injured when he came out and blocked bravely at the feet of the Maree/Oranmore striker; having to be substituted, with Shane Ward taking the responsibilities between the sticks. Athenry equalised after a brilliant run by Arran VanNiekirk took him into the box, where he was stopped illegally, the ref pointed to the spot and David Mangan stepped up to convert powerfully into the bottom corner. Both teams went in at half time with a lot to think about.
Athenry had a lot more purpose about their game, playing some lovely passing football. They took the lead when again through a set piece corner, David Mangan converted from a Steven Callanan corner, finishing this time with a neat volley past the keeper, and giving him his hat trick. Maree/Oranmore applied more pressure from this point on and some sterling play by the Athenry defence kept them in the lead. However a mix up at the back allowed Maree/Oranmore in to get the equaliser with a few minutes left. This set up a nail biting finish, with both sides getting corners and applying pressure from end to end. Maree/Oranmore nearly took the win near the end when ex-Athenry player James went close with a header. Almost immediately Athenry got a corner at the far end and were rewarded when the ball found its way to Patrick Briggs in the box after John McGough’s deep corner, and he kept his head to finish well past the keeper. From then on it was all Maree/Oranmore, and only some safe hands from Shane Ward and some last gasp defence from the rest of the team, allowed Athenry to progress to the next round. Athenry deserved the win and have given themselves a few things to think about before next week’s match against Corrib Celtic.
05/10/09 HENNELLY HAT TRICK ENOUGH FOR U14'S
On a warm October evening Athenry set out onto the pitch to play local rivals Craughwell in an important league match. Three points would be crucial for either team. Athenry began with Darragh Murphy in goal as usual. A changed back line saw Darragh Conlon at right back with Andrew Collins starting on the left. The Centre backs remained the same as the previous game against Knocnacara which was Darren Kelly and Dermot O’Halloran. The midfield saw Simon Brody start on the right as usual with Ciaran O’Dwyer and Darragh Rohan in the middle of the park and Darren Daly slotting into left mid and was today’s captain. Aaron Osborne and Thomas Hennelly were upfront.
The game started lively for Athenry which saw plenty of chances fall to the attackers but none were converted. The Athenry defenders were fantastic with Andrew Collins and Darragh Conlon tackling well on the wings while Dermot O’Hallaron and Darren Kelly cleared the lines well. Athenry were caught out on the counter attack which saw Craughwell Captain Conor Lally pick up the ball in midfield and slot a great through ball to the Craughwell attacker who took his chance fantastically firing into the roof of Darragh Murphy’s net. While the goal came against the run of play Athenry made several attempts to find an equalizer before half time but failed to do so. Aaron Osborne once again worked his socks off in a preferred attacking role. A sense of panic had crept into Athenry’s play prior to half time.
At half-time the managers Gerry and Doc pointed out the pitfall of being over confident going into a game. They urged the team not to panic and to have confidence in their own ability. A revived Athenry began the second half with Darragh Rohan slotting a fantastic through ball which cut the Craughwell defence and Thomas Hennelly was on hand to tap it in. Minutes later Rohan and Hennelly combined again and Hennelly put Athenry in front. Craughwell then went up a gear and ran a tired Athenry team ragged. A Conor Lally free kick from 25 yards brought out a fantastic save from Athenry keeper Darragh Murphy. Murphy dived brilliantly to his right and tapped the ball around the post. Chances then fell to the Craughwell right winger Matthew Freaney who couldn’t find a way past Darragh Murphy.
Late in the game Athenry captain Darren Daly was booked for leaving the pitch to have a drink of water. Apparently against the rules, but under harsh circumstances Daly was shown a yellow card. Darren took it on the chin and went onto play a great game. A rule not many players were not aware of but will know for the future. The Craughwell centre midfielder then slotted a great ball to the attacker who found himself in a great position but Darren Kelly was on hand to knock the ball away for a throw in. Fresh legs were needed with Darragh Keane coming on to replace Andrew Collins and Ronan Byrne replaced Darren Kelly. Both would have a big impact on the final result.
Craughwell were then caught on the counter with a Darragh Murphy kick out which fell to Ronan Byrne who slotted a great through ball to Hennelly who’s shot found the back of the net and he completed his hat-trick. Oisin Mac Fhionnlaoich came on before the end also. Special mention to Athenry central defender Dermot O’Hallaron who was once again outstanding. The final whistle went and Athenry were jubilant about their win.
29/09/09 U14'S WIN 2 NIL V KNOCKNACARRA
U14's Athenry started with a 4-4-2 formation with Darragh Murphy in goal as usual.
Darragh Conlon slotted in for his first game in left back and judging by performance the first of many.
Darren Kelly slotted into centre back in the absence of Shane O'Rielly and Dermot O'Hallaron and Darragh Keane were also in backs. The midfield was the same as the game against Corrib Celtic which was Simon Brody, Ciaran O'Dwyer, Darragh Rohan and Ronan Byrne on the left. Thomas Hennelly and Aaron Osborne Were upfront. The game started lively with Athenry having most of the chances in the first half. Aaron Osborne being denied by the Knocknacarra keeper who got back to his line very quickly after a fantastic Aaron Osborne lob. Ciaran O'Dwyer slotted a great ball through to Thomas Hennelly who was also denied.
The second half started like the first with the ever fantastic Dermot O'Hallaron giving a great ball over the top which put Aaron Osborne through on goal. Aaron shrugged off a defender well and was then brought down by a defender. A penalty was awarded and Aaron dusted himself off and got up to take it. He slotted it home and Athenry took the lead. Minutes later a Knocknacarra defender was penalised for calling "my ball" and an in-direct free-kick was awarded from 25 or so yards out. Ciaran O'Dywer laid it off to Thomas Hennelly who took his free well for his first goal of the season. Knocknaccara then increased pressure but Athenry held out for their 2-0 win.
Subs
Aaron Van Niekerk came on for Ronan Byrne
Mark Kilkenny for Thomas Hennelly
Shane Ward for Darragh Keane
Andrew Collins came on for Simon Brody
Darren Daly came on for Ronan Byrne
5/9/09 U13's Athenry 7 V 0 Renmore
Venue: Renmore Scorers: David Mangan (2), Aaron VanNikierk (3), Ronan Byrne (2)
Athenry Team
Goalkeeper Conor Pokall
Defenders Steven Callanan, Michael McNeilis, Mark Kilkenny, Declan Egan
Midfielders Andrew Lynskey, Shane Ward, Ronan Byrne, David Mangan, Jamie Cronin
Forwards Martin Ward
Subs Cathal Moran, Cathal Murphy, Aaron VanNeNierk, Ciaran Devaney, Patrick Briggs
Match Report
The U13's squad got their new personalised kits just before the match started. Athenry won the toss and our Captain Ronan Byrne chose to play with the brisk breeze. David Mangan opened the scoring for Athenry with an opportunistic goal in the first few minutes before the match settled into a to and fro tussle for the following 20 minutes during which time Renmore’s best chance of scoring came off the crossbar. With the introduction of fresh legs by Athenry and some injuries for Renmore Athenry began to dominate the game. In the 2nd half, the quality of Athenry’s passing and through balls took a weakened Renmore apart. It certainly was a game of two halves. Hopefully Athenry can build on the quality of play shown in this match.
Mon April 27th 2009 U14's Corrib Celtic 5, Athenry 1
Athenry: Damien Gruchot, Cian R Kelly (Tom Hennelly 35mins), Gary kilkelly, Dermot O’Halloran, Paul Eagle,Luke Tuohy, Oisin McLoughlin, Niall Egan, Aidan Higgins, Mark Lawless, Aaron Osborne (Kevin Walsh 60mins)
Subs not used: Adam Ray.
Match Summary:
After an initial solid opening few minutes the Athenry concentration levels slipped and Corrib had a shot saved by the post and a header over from a corner, it was no surprise when Corrib finally scored on the break when a low cross wasn’t dealt with and the ball was blasted to the roof of the net. This setback seemed to galvanise Athenry for a period and while they rarely threatened the Corrib goal they dominated the possession stakes. However on 18mins Corrib scored again and they scored a third on 29mins with the Athenry spirits flagging.
Athenry went with 3 across the back in the second half and the performance improved, they deservedly scored on 44mins when the Corrib keeper failed to hold a speculative Luke Tuohy angled volley. With the new formation and the effort to play a high offside line the defence was always edgy and Corrib broke through to score on 60 mins. A rushed clearance on 65mins by the Athenry netminder led to a fifth for Corrib, although it must be recorded that Damien had a very solid and promising overall display. Others to impress with their efforts were Gary Kilkelly, Dermot O’Halloran and Paul Eagle. Luke deserved to be on the scoresheet for his efforts and shaded the MOTM award over Damien and Dermot. Mark Lawless and Niall Egan were as usual full of industry. Oisin McLoughlin became more involved in the attacks towards the end of the game and Aidan Higgins improved after switching wings with Luke. Aaron Osborne was unlucky with a couple of efforts and the recent busy spell on 3 age levels took its toll. Cian Kelly was sacrificed in the second half to make room for Tom Hennelly, both players gave a good account. Kevin Walsh made a contribution as a late sub.
While it was disappointing that the team failed to mirror their earlier display against the same opposition, there were enough positives to remain optimistic for the future. Other results on the night mean the team remain in the Premier league next season and few gave them a chance of survival before this season started. A few more friendlies will give fringe players the games they need to gain confidence and experience. Early season form helped the team survive in the u-14 Premier league and early season form will again be important in the season to come.
09/12/08 U14'S RESUME WINNING WAYS - Athenry 2, Colga 1.
After a comprehensive league defeat, it was important that the u-14s got back to winning ways. This was achieved in a good-tempered friendly against Colga in Athenry on Saturday, the first of hopefully many such games this season.
Both teams were positive from the start and the game was entertaining viewing for the sizeable (mostly Colga) contingent on the line. The teams were evenly matched and both defences worked hard to contain the attacking movements and protect their goals, both goalies had to advance quickly at times to collect and the game moved quickly from end to end. It was noticeable as the half wore on that Colga were becoming more dominant in midfield, Athenrys tactic of rotating 2 subs was unsettling the team and it was no surprise when Colga went ahead on 25 mins when one of their strikers had room to advance on goal and Adam Ray was helpless to prevent the strike.
This turned out to be Colga’s last clear chance of the half, they forced some corners but Athenry have improved in defending set pieces and give little away. Niall Egan now changed to centre back to partner Dermot O’Halloran and this allowed Patric Evason to influence the midfield exchanges with Aaron Osborne and Oisin McLoughlin ably assisting. Paddy Hannon was constantly threatening on the left wing and he slipped a pass to the on running Tom Hennelly on 31 mins, Tom slotted firmly home from a tight angle for a deserved equaliser. Indeed Mark Lawless and Cian R Kelly were unlucky not to add to this before the break.
Athenry rested the fullbacks for the first few minutes of the second half and the refereering duties were now taken over by Des Glynn. Again teams looked to build quick attacks, Athenrys twin defensive pairing of Egan, and O’Halloran was immense. Evason now went to left full and launched a lot of perceptive mid-range and long balls forward. Full credit to the Colga midfielder who was smacked with a full-force Evason free kick, the lad never flinched when all on the line felt the blast!
Aidan Higgins and Gary Kilkelly both came back on to wing positions during the half and were instrumental in the winning goal. A ball from Higgins was slipped deftly through the forward line and with the Colga defence dragged out of position Kilkelly was left with time and space and he duly drove to the top corner. This goal came on 60 mins and from there to the finish Athenry were comfortable, particularly with Paul Eagle solid at right full and the midfield working hard.