u16 FAI cup

Under 16s National Cup v St. Joseph's Boys, 11 Feb 2012

The under 16s put up a great fight but went down 4-2 against an excellent St. Joseph's Boys from Dublin in the FAI National Cup on Saturday. In a very sporting game in which both sides gave their all, St. Joseph's were the stronger team in the first half and led 3-0 at the break, two goals in a two minute spell on the half-hour doing most of the damage. A fourth goal just after the break looked like killing off the game, but Rockmount showed great fighting spirit with Kyle Anderson volleying home after Greg McDonnell hit the bar on the hour mark, and Ryan Goldsmith smashing home Tristan Roche's corner five minutes later. They had other chances before the end, but couldn't get the third goal which would have made for a grandstand finish. Instead the St. Josephs lads showed great composure to see out the remaining minutes and claim a deserved last 16 spot. We wish them well for the rest of the competition.

Our thanks go to referee Daniel O'Flynn for helping us to get the game played, to Colaiste Stiofan Naofa for the use of their excellent playing facilities, and to Ballyphehane Community Centre for the kind use of their hall, where the players and supporters from both teams enjoyed some well-earned food and refreshments after the game. Our thanks also to Clifford's Centra Shandon Street and Healy's Bakery Blackpool for providing us with most of the said refreshments.

Some of the action from the game....