Goal scorers:

Kyle R

Rhys L

Sam McC

Reece S

Charlie S

MOTM – Reece S

Lisneal Under 16’s second game of their cup campaign saw them take on St Brigid’s College at home on yet another wet and miserable day. Despite the weather, the Lisneal team were in good spirits and excited to get back on the pitch following their dominance in the previous round. They demonstrated great focus and seemed well-prepared for the game ahead.

Lisneal made the faster and brighter start of the two teams. Every player started quick, the midfield took control in key areas of the pitch, the defence dominated challenges and headers, setting a platform to drive the team forward on the front foot. But it was Kyle who set the tone up front. Kyle’s pressing and intensity early set the standard of the game and once again he got on the score sheets and put Lisneal ahead. Kyle capitalised on a St Brigids defenders miss clearance following a strong cross field pass from fullback, Reece. 1-0 up.

After a confident Lisneal start, the scoreline was back to all square following a brief miscommunication in Lisneal’s own box. St Brigids striker took advantage and scored past a helpless Aaron in goal. 1-1.

However, Lisneal got straight back on the ball and continued to dominate the first half. After some well engineered set pieces from Sam and his field partner Travis, Lisneal forced some good saves from the opposition’s goalkeeper. Although Lisneal continued to put pressure on their opponents, the score remained 1-1 and both teams rushed out of the torrential rain to seek shelter in the changing rooms for a brief break at half time.

Once again, Lisneal started the better of the two sides and quickly found themselves 2-1 in the game. Another effective cross field ball from Reece put Rhys on the opposite flank through in on goal. Rhys showed outstanding composure to fire the ball beyond the goalkeeper with the St Brigid’s fullback also applying the pressure.

Lisneal worked tirelessly to defend the lead they created again. However, some poor decisions and a loose man in the box led to a St Brigid’s flick hitting the back of the Lisneal net. Game still in the balance at 2-2. In spite of being dragged back into the game twice and not being able to hold the lead for a second time, Lisneal continued to show great patience on the ball and played great football. Off the ball, every player competed well and won individual battles to secure the ball back for the team. This resilience and determination led to Sam winning a penalty for his team at a vital moment. Sam stepped up, sent the keeper diving and slotted home to put his side 3-2 up.

Even thought the weather did not improve from here, Lisneal’s football continued to shine! A superb team passing movement down the left-hand side of the pitch, with some great hold up play by Kyle, ended with him turning the defender on the byline to tee up the full Reece who started the move from defence. Today’s MOTM, Reece finished well and put the Under 16’s 4-2 in the game.

Of course last week’s MOTM and skipper couldn’t go home without getting a mention and a headline in tomorrow’s paper. Charlie emerged from his defensive duties in midfield, and found himself in space outside the opponents box with space to shoot. Charlie needed no second invitation to take on the strike and with the last kick of the game, he fired home to make the scoreline 5-2 and secure the game for Lisneal.

Thanks to all the support and staff that attended the game. Thanks to St Brigid’s for the game.

On to the next round #TeamLisneal