St Brigid’s u12s v Rossa u12’s
St Brigid’s U12 footballers achieved a great landmark on 2nd July when the boys won the O’Donnell Cup for the first time in the club’s history. To achieve the win they had to beat a very strong and sporting Rossa side.
St Brigid’s started well and a fine long range point from Conor King settled early nerves. This followed a good pass by Enda Kelly McCann who over the course of match set up a total of 4 scores, as well as adding a fine point of his own. St Brigid’s second score also came from midfield when James Smith latched onto an excellent through pass from Neil O’Reilly and crashed an unstoppable shot into the top corner of the net. St Brigid’s enjoyed a purple patch at this time and notched over a further four points without reply. These were scored by all members of the half forward line, Michael Cummings, Shane Moran and Peter Webb whilst James Smith also got back on the score sheet. The pick of these scores was an excellent curling long range effort from Michael Cummings. However, Rossa showed great determination and as half time approached they swung the balance of play in their favour. A single point was however their only reward.
At half time, St Brigid’s knew that they needed to get off to a good start – to stem Rossa’s momentum. Testament to the close nature of the match, it was the St Brigid’s defenders who were the pick of the stars on the night. At left corner back, Frank McCormack put in a man of the match performance with an exemplary display of tackling, play reading and sheer determination. Rory Smith also played a superb match at half back, showing great strength and vision on the ball.
At the start of the second half, the St Brigid’s keeper, Dermot McMenamin pulled off an incredible save which no doubt was a key moment. This save was notable for both its athleticism and bravery as Dermot dived at point blank distance at the feet of the advancing forward. Spurred on by this save, Peter Webb and Neil O’Reilly scored two fine points as St Brigid’s found space down the right flank. Peter Lavery was also a constant danger down this same flank when he was introduced midway through the second half. However, the St Brigid’s defence, often the unsung heroes, continued to act as the engine room for the team, constantly breaking up attacks and finding team mates with excellent passes. Joseph Finnegan never failed to be first out in front of his man whilst Patrick Finnegan swept up every loose ball and showed total determination. At full back, Gavin Campbell was a complete rock and won every high ball into the St Brigid’s penalty box.
Finishing the game strongly, James Smith and Enda Kelly McCann fired over two further scores. Again these scores were the result of hard work further out the field, most notably by Ollie Cairns and Daire McGarvey who had both come on in the second half. However, Rossa were always dangerous and it took some excellent tackling by Paul Storrs to keep Rossa at bay.
When the final whistle went, Gavin Campbell, the St Brigid’s captain, was presented with the O’Donnell cup and the celebrations began. The entire U12 squad can be very proud of this first achievement for the club and the manner in which they played and represented the club. As indicated by the contributions noted above, the U12s are able to avail of great strength in depth. For the final, the team had a panel of 25 players from which to choose. No doubt many of the U11’s will be securing starting positions next year.
Final score: St Brigid’s 1-9, Rossa 0-1
