Castleknock Celtic  3  Dundalk  1 

FAI U-17 Cup

Sun.November 6, 2004

Celtic were shocked by Dundalk's early strike, following a mix-up in the home defence as Dundalk prepared to take a free kick. 0-1

This Celtic team have been gradually improving as they got their full side together, following injuries and distractions from local GAA. Celtic played themselves into this game, and on 28 minutes, there a lovely move.  Cathal McDermott fed Frankie Kernan, who beautifully threaded his pass to Lorcan McCarthy.  Lorcan is just coming back to fitness after a long lay-off from injury.  But he seized on his opportunity, beating defender and keeper alike with a superb finish. 1-1.

Celtic were slow to get going after the break.  They did however go close after 7 minutes.  For a long spell in the second half, it looked like we would have the dreaded extra time and penalty shoot out.  But Lorcan McCarthy saw things differently.  After 30 minutes, he brilliantly beat the defender at the by-line, crossed superbly, where central defender, Ronan McGivern rose to head home. 2-1 Celtic.  There were further chances.  And 12 minutes from time, Lorcan was again sharper to the ball, beating the Dundalk defender and keeper.  He dummied the keeper, and slotted home from 12 metres.

There was a late scare for Celtic when Dave O'Connor pushed a shot onto the crossbar.

This was indeed a team performance.  All played their part, all competing very well. But special mention should made on behalf of Feargal Cusack and Ronan McGivern at the back.  Cathal McDermott, Ciaran Carr and Frankie Kernan were especially worthy of compliment.

Manager Vernon McAllorum was well pleased with the character his side had shown, coming from a goal behind to overcome one of the big names in Irish soccer.