U16 Boys Div1: Colemanstown 3 – 3 Merlin Woods. Colemanstown U16 boys squad delivered a performance for the ages on Thursday last, overcoming Merlin Woods in a heart-stopping league encounter that had onlookers on the edge of their seats until the final whistle. Colemanstown secured a dramatic 4-3 victory, showcasing resilience, determination, and a never-say-die attitude in a match full of intensity and entertainment.
From the opening moments, it was clear that both teams were out to prove their dominance. Merlin Woods wasted no time in testing Colemanstown’s defense, finding an early breakthrough that put them ahead. But the Colemanstown Boys, urged on by their supporters and coaching team, responded in emphatic fashion. A well-worked move saw Colemanstown equalise with Oisin Gavin and Ryan Shaughnessy adding a second from close range, in the right place at the right time. With the half closing, Merlin had their chances for a second, hitting the post from distance. Going by the first time offering the second half promised more action and more goals.
The second half was a masterclass in attacking football. Colemanstown stormed forward with purpose, but it was Merlin who found the equaliser 2-2. Tom Holohan quickly fired our boys back in front once more with an unstoppable 25 yard shot – 3-2! Merlin Woods refused to back down, and continued the pursuit for an equaliser striking back from the penalty spot, 3-3 and 10 minutes to go, this was going to be a nail-biting finale.
With the match on a knife’s edge, the Colemanstown lads showed their grit. Our fourth goal was a moment of brilliance and poise by Oisin Gavin scoring his second of the match, and the winning goal —an unstoppable strike that left the Merlin goalkeeper with no chance. Despite a further surge from the visitors, Colemanstown stood firm, defending heroically in the dying minutes to hold onto their lead and clinch all three points in the league and move up the table.
As the final whistle blew, cheers erupted across the pitch. This victory wasn’t just about the points—it was a statement. The Colemanstown boys had proved their ability to execute under pressure. The boys and all the supporters were in high spirits, already eager for the next battle, in the Championship/Div 1 Cup final against Ballinasloe this Wednesday 7th in Eamon Deacy Park. One thing is certain—this young Colemanstown squad has the heart, the talent, and the hunger to go all the way. Match Report: Luca Lualdi.
Squad: Tommy Nutley, Daniel Booth, Sean Keating, Niall Robinson, Mike Lally, Oisin Gavin, Paddy Gavin, Jamie Cunniffe, Ryan Shaughnessy, Joshua Lualdi, Gearoid Walsh, Jamie Lally, James Somers, Padraig Fallon, Tom Holohan, Tadhg Hart.