An excellent challenge match to set up the league preparations. With prior agreement with St Enda’s and due to the absence of 5 or 6 regulars, St Brigid’s played Andy Brennan and Michael Sweeny for half a game each.
St Enda’s playing sensible controlled football took an early 3 point lead as St Brigid’s took time to settle. But then came a show of fast flowing, quick hand passing football from St Brigid’s. The score taking was excellent but more note worthy was the direct free flowing moves from the boys in yellow and blue.
The final score of 1-13 to 1-5 does not tell the whole story. In fact St Brigid’s wasted several other scoring oppurtunties. Usually our reports reflect the solid defence, this time it was the excellent forward play. Star performances from Steve O’Brien and Chris Donnelly backed up by a mature, disciplined, selfless from Steve McAleer. Donal Connolly’s performance rate increases as each match comes along and Tim Mc Crudden’s tireless work in midfield reflects the fact that he is St Brigid’s representative on the Antrim U-16s.
Of course mention has to be made of the defence with Ben Sinnott again producing an eye cathing performance. Paddy Nolan in full back cut out most of St Enda’s attacks and his short passing out was unerring and accurate. When St Brigid’s conceded a penalty late in the second half Conor McLoughlin wishes it known that although the ball hit the post, his 90 degree dive with outstretched arms had the situation well covered.
What was well pleasing was St Brigid’s intelligent movement off the ball, especially from the forwards. Despite some nasty off the ball fouls, St Brigid’s kept their heads. What prepares us well for the league campaign was the stylish and selfless play by all of the team. Despite the several regulars missing from the squad 22 turned up and played. It would be unfair to the quality of the team play throughout to single out one player as man of the match. Well done lads.
Final Score – St Brigid’s 1-13 St Enda’s 1-5
