In a match that lived up to its reputation for being a close affair, the Wicklow Rovers U12C team narrowly lost 2-0 to St. Anthony's C in an away fixture. Both teams began the game strongly, with a cagey opening 10 minutes.
However, the tide turned when St. Anthony's were awarded a penalty for a handball decision that could be considered harsh. Keeper Mithul Saravana guessed correctly but couldn't quite keep the spot-kick out.
The Rovers responded immediately, with some excellent link-up play leading to a brilliant save from the St. Anthony's keeper to deny Billy Nolan's top-corner-bound effort. From the resulting corner, Aaron Cunha's delivery found Charlie Gill, whose header narrowly missed the target. The remainder of the first half remained tight, with neither team able to break the deadlock.
The second half mirrored the first, with both sides playing attractive football and creating chances. As the Rovers pushed for an equalizer, they were caught on a quick counterattack, conceding a second goal late in the game. The team continued to fight until the final whistle, with Brook Montgomery and Charlie Gill both going close.
Referee Seamus Ferguson, after the final whistle, gathered both teams to commend them on an excellent game of football. He also praised the sidelines for their positive support and awarded Man of the Match to Mithul Saravana, who made several crucial saves in the second half. The team and coaching staff also took the opportunity to wish Mithul a very happy birthday.
A special thanks to St. Anthony's for another competitive and enjoyable match.
However, the tide turned when St. Anthony's were awarded a penalty for a handball decision that could be considered harsh. Keeper Mithul Saravana guessed correctly but couldn't quite keep the spot-kick out.
The Rovers responded immediately, with some excellent link-up play leading to a brilliant save from the St. Anthony's keeper to deny Billy Nolan's top-corner-bound effort. From the resulting corner, Aaron Cunha's delivery found Charlie Gill, whose header narrowly missed the target. The remainder of the first half remained tight, with neither team able to break the deadlock.
The second half mirrored the first, with both sides playing attractive football and creating chances. As the Rovers pushed for an equalizer, they were caught on a quick counterattack, conceding a second goal late in the game. The team continued to fight until the final whistle, with Brook Montgomery and Charlie Gill both going close.
Referee Seamus Ferguson, after the final whistle, gathered both teams to commend them on an excellent game of football. He also praised the sidelines for their positive support and awarded Man of the Match to Mithul Saravana, who made several crucial saves in the second half. The team and coaching staff also took the opportunity to wish Mithul a very happy birthday.
A special thanks to St. Anthony's for another competitive and enjoyable match.