U13 Division 3 Final

Clonard-Longwood 3-9 St. Olivers 0-3

Clonard-Longwood U13s secured their second U13 title in a row when they avenged a 8 point defeat to the same opposition only 3 weeks earlier. Exactly a year ago to the day, they secured their first U13 title with narrow one point win over Ballinabrackey. This time the winning margin was more convincing, despite a brave performance from the Ballinlough/Moylagh/St. Brigids combination of St. Olivers.

Clonard-Longwood showed their intent from the start, with a goal inside 30 seconds. The outstanding Justin Coyne at midfield caught the referee's throw-in, surged forward and found Tadhg Connolly, who turned his marker, soloed, and crossed to his namesake James Connolly, who dispatched an excellent finish past the dive of the St. Olivers keeper.

Only two minutes later Tadgh Connolly also found the net with a goal, when he blasted home from close distance. At this stage of the game the Clonard-Longwood boys were first to every ball and the opposition had no answer to the surging runs from the midfield and half back lines. Tadgh Connolly added a point and a further two points came from Justin Coyne, one with the foot and one with the fist.

St. Olivers were rattled and their attacks were constantly broken down by resolute and remarkable defending by the Clonard-Longwood backs. Sean Crum and Keeper Jack Raleigh came out with ball on numerous occasions, to name just two of the many outstanding defenders.

Before the half time whistle sounded there was time for another goal when James Connolly found the net for a second time when he finished from close range after an excellent save from the opposing keeper. Half time Clonard-Longwood led 3-3 to 0-0.

The second half was a far tighter affair as St.Olivers dug deep to restore pride, and could have got closer, only to be denied again by keeper Jack Raleigh and two defenders on the line.

But yet again the midfield domination counted for Clonard-Longwood as they raised the white flag with points from Justin Coyne (3), James and Tadgh Connolly (1 each), and a superb effort from Sam King.

The final whistle sounded which prompted celebrations among the players, mentors and supporters. Ciaran Benville from Meath Coiste na nOg presented the trophy to joint captains Justin Coyne and Abedotun Shina-Mabinuori. 

Well done to all involved in what is proving to be a very successful amalgamation at juvenile level.

Scorers: Justin Coyne 0-6, James Connolly 2-1 (0-1f), Tadgh Connolly 1-1, Sam King 0-1.

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