Saturday,22^nd February, 2003

Castleknock Celtic 4  St. Ita's 0                                

On their second outing in the Brenfer North Dublin League, Under 7 Beige, Castleknock Celtic had a convincing win over the Portrane side. This was their second consecutive week to play a game, thanks to the mild weather.

Last week ,they travelled to Mellowes Road to play Northway Rangers.  They were very unfortunate to be beaten 1-0.  There were plenty of chances to score but the ball just was not running their way.  Rangers were a much different side to the team Castleknock beat before Christmas in Finglas!  A couple of their new players were a class above the rest!

However, the team played really well and deserved to come away with at least a point.  One player that showed great improvement in ball skills and sheer determination was Hannagh Hanlon.  David Fogarty, the Under 7 manager, awarded her " Man of the Match".  We're working on a change of title for this award.

Hannagh is a great example to the other players as she never complains if she is substituted or put in goal, she is never late for matches or training, she always tries her hardest despite being intimidated by bigger players.  She never retaliates when tripped and is a very clean player. She also has her boots spotless for each match !

Back to last Saturday, the team started off well with all the play in St. Itas half for the first quarter.  The pressure soon told with Eoin O'Donnchu hitting a spectacular shot to open the scoring.  This led to great jubilation on the sideline, with one man, wearing a cap, leaping up and down, roaring and shouting "That's my boy"………….I think it was his Dad!  Nothing like a bit of unbiassed support.

Ross Ward is improving all the time and is using skills learnt at training, like taking high balls down with his chest and getting stuck into tackles.  Darragh McCaffrey was playing in midfield and defence at various stages in the game.  He had a wonderful game and packs a mighty right foot.   

Anthony Healy scored the other two goals.  The final goal was a treasure to behold.  Eve Farrelly was in goal for the last quarter and topped off a fine display outfield.  She cleared the ball out to Eoin who passed to Tom Fogarty.  Tom charged with the ball from inside his own half, all the way up to the opposing corner flag and crossed it into Ross Kennedy.

Ross picked his spot and hit it past the on-coming keeper.

At the end of the match, David praised all players for a wonderful performance and left the decision for "Man of the Match" to the Assistant Manager, Paul Farrelly.  Although, several players were in contention, there was one who stood out that day.  This player was Tom Fogarty.

His Grandad, Mum, Irene and brother Jack, were also there to cheer him on. Tom generally plays in defence and is as solid as a rock there.  He has an excellent right foot and not afraid to tackle bigger guys coming at him with the ball.  He is one of the top players on the team……..I don't know where he gets it from !!

Thanks to PF for this comprehensive report.  Keep them coming.