‘A’ Team’s Encounter vs Knocknacarra

Ollie Crowe gives an honest and emotional account of the A team’s latest league encounter against Knocknacarra on Saturday last.
A huge range of emotions were felt in Colemanstown last Sunday, when our ‘A’ Team took on Knocknacarra, in an attempt to begin our climb towards the top of the table. The opposition provided a decent challenge, knowing that a win against Colemanstown would further their chances of promotion.

However, in truth, it was the home team who dominated, in terms of attacking play and chances created. Our creativity was rewarded on 20 minutes when, not for the first time, the quick footed Geordan Kenny was fouled inside the area. The ever reliable Tom Flannery converted the spot kick, giving  huge momentum to the home team.

Knocknacarra, to their credit, knocked on the door on numerous occasions, looking for their equaliser, but, in truth, our defense was rock solid, both from open play and set pieces.

 Ed Flannery’s positional play and calmness under pressure was remarkable. He is like a new signing. Jason Finn was his usual solid self, as were full backs, Stephen Rabbitte and Conal Docherty. As always, the midfield partnership of Richie Lally and Gary Lally, together with wingers Shane Lally and the versatile Padraig Quirke provided cover in defense and creativity in attack. Tom and Geordan worked tirelessly up front. 

The half time message was just to repeat their first half efforts. Substitute, Conor O’Neill put in a hugely impressive debut, especially from attacking play. He is certainly an exciting prospect for the future. On 60 minutes, we thought we were dreaming when Tom chipped the keeper from a free kick, inside his own half. Unfortunately the referee cancelled it off, as he had not blown his whistle. Such a shame as we pressed hard for a second. Unfortunately, some impressive last ditch Knocknacarra defending denied us on numerous occasions.

With 6 minutes left, the game turned frantic, to say the least. Knocknacarra equalised on 84 minutes. Our response was immediate. Tom Flannery somehow managed to turn his defender from a tight angle, and floated a teasing far post cross, which Geordan converted, sending the place into ecstasy. There was one minute on the clock!

In a freak turn of events, a blocked clearance was capitalised on  by a young Knocknacarra midfielder, who managed to find the top corner from 30 yards out. Our ecstasy turned into agony. 

It was another case of two points lost. But there were many positives to be taken from the game. Each game offers lots of learning, both for the players and management. 

We are still in the hunt for promotion, though a serious run of wins is necessary!

The honesty and determination of these bunch of lads can not be emphasised enough. Their commitment to their club, both at matches, and at training, makes the job of their managers very satisfying and enjoyable. They are a credit to their locality.