After a win and a loss in the group stages of the South Leinster football championship, Knockbeg looked to replicate the success of the junior team of the previous year by advancing to the South Leinster Final. In this game, Knockbeg were matched against a strong Clane side who had won both group games.
Although storm Brendan had wreaked its havoc the day before, Knockbeg traveled up to the North of Kildare to face Clane. In conditions that could only be described as dreadful, the ball was thrown in. It didn’t take the home side long to get on the scoreboard, registering a goal in the first minute. This seemed to have knocked the Knockbeg side’s confidence as 4 more points were scored without reply. Knockbeg finally got on track after a free dropped into the square was put barely over the bar by Kyle Nolan. Unfortunately, this would not turn the tide in the Knockbeg’s favour as Clane were able to add 4 more goals within the waning minutes of the first half. Halftime score: Knockbeg 0-1 Clane 5-5
Upon resumption of the game, Clane were able to win the throw up and score a point from inside the 21. After some sloppy play by the Knockbeg backs, 2 goals were conceded within 5 minutes. Conall Bergin was able to convert a free after some good pressure from the forwards. Knockbeg were unlucky not to have a goal when Oisin Hooney’s shot was stopped by a good save and the rebound was saved by the waterlogged goal area. Even after this sustained pressure, Clane were able to move the ball upfield and add another 3 points. A Dejected Knockbeg team conceded 3 more points. Oisin Hooney was able to convert a consolation goal and Conall Bergin a point.
It was a disappointing end to a season that had much promise after the first game. This team will be back to contest the senior championship in 2 years time.
Final score: Knockbeg 1-3 Clane 8-12
Team: Cillian Maher(Stradbally), Fiacc Brennan(Palatine), Fergus Langton(Barrowhouse), Ruairi Scully (Athy), Conor Bowe(Palatine), Oisín Nolan(Castledermot), Jack Byrne(Graiguecullen), Oisín Doyle(Clonmore), Aodhan Lowry(Arles-Kilcruise), Kyle Nolan(Eire Óg), Oisín Hooney(St Joseph’s), Jesse McEvoy(Ballylinan), Conall Bergin(Grangenolvan), Michéal Downey(Ballylinan), Jack Doyle(Palatine).
Subs used: Mark McDermott, Oisin Byrne, Oran O’Callaghan, Kodi Dunne.
By Michael Wall TY
