Congratulations to Matthew and the lads, 3-1 winners over Dunshaughlin Youths for NDSL Cup 2014
Skill, self-belief and remarkable team spirit saw Skerries overturn a half-time deficit to run out 3-1 winners of the NDSL U13s Cup. Skerries started strongly, matching a powerful Dunshaughlin team all over the pitch. Clever passing and movement helped Skerries work the better chances in the first 20 mins. Dunshaughlin's direct style has left them unbeaten in the league, including two wins over Skerries, and they grew in confidence as the half progressed. The Skerries defence held firm under growing pressure, with keeper Tadhg Kelly well placed several times to keep this tight contest scoreless. But Dunshaughlin broke the deadlock with the last kick of the half, turning in a corner to leave Skerries with it all to do in the second half.
This is a Skerries squad that never gives in, and knows how to win the second half of any match. Skerries took a grip on the game after the break, with Jake Cruise and Callum O’Sullivan solid in central defence and full backs Ben Oakes, Conall Tully, (with subs Adam Hanratty, and Patrick Lattimore offering fresh legs at crucial times) providing a firm foundation for wave after wave of attack. Driven on by Matthew "Captain Fantastic" Donnelly pulling the strings in midfield alongside the tireless Liam Byrne and Rory Garland, and with the skillful outlets of Conor Kinsella, Rian O'Connor, Emmet Trant, Daragh McCarney and James Dempsey all taking their turns to test the Dunshaughlin defence, the breakthrough had to come. The equaliser came when a trademark inswinging corner from Rory Garland caught the keeper off-guard and flew into the net. Dunshaughlin fought hard but Skerries continued to press. Neat approach play and fast footwork inside the box saw Daragh McCarney work an opening to knock in a close-range second. Both teams fought it out and the contest stayed close as Skerries deservedly held on to their lead thanks to excellent defending all over the pitch. The decisive surge came with three minutes left, Matthew Donnelly winning the ball in the centre circle and out-witting three defenders before coolly and selflessly rolling the ball into the path of Emmet Trant who calmly slotted home from six yards.
All 15 players got a run out in the final, all played their part and worked so hard for each other and drew praise from the many Skerries supporters (and the Dunshaughlin coaching staff) both for their attitude and their drive to play the game the right way. The NDSL awarded Daragh McCarney the man-of-the-match trophy for a fine display in what was a great team performance all round. Every one did themselves and their calmly confident parents (no nerves there, ahem…) proud. This was a truly memorable day and the highlight of many fine performances the team has put together this season. Special thanks from coaches Matthew Kelly and Tom Garland to all the lads, a great group of supportive parents and to Aaron Mullen for his role as assistant coach during the season