Match Report: Shield E Semi-Final
St Anthonys 3 - Wicklow Rovers 2
In a carryover game from last season, our Wicklow Rovers U13B squad travelled to Finn Park for an exciting and hard-fought Shield E Semi-Final against St Anthonys.
St. Anthonys took control early, scoring twice within the first 24 minutes to put Rovers on the back foot. However, our team showed great character and determination, refusing to let their heads drop. Just a minute later, Alex Philippon pulled one back in the 25th minute. Chris Delahunt won the ball on the right and delivered a superb ball across the box, allowing Philippon to slot home confidently with his left foot. The score stood at 2-1, going into halftime.
Rovers came out much stronger in the second half, pressing high and creating chances. Their efforts were rewarded in the 11th minute when Philippon struck again, taking his chance well to level the game at 2-2.
Rovers almost went ahead when Casey Brennan made a brilliant run down the right, beating three defenders before squaring the ball into the box. Eoghan Quinn was inches away from getting on the end of it before the ball was taken off his toe at the last second.
The turning point came when the referee awarded St. Anthonys a controversial penalty after what appeared to be a strong but fair challenge from Michael Carroll in the Rovers' box. Anthonys converted from the spot to make it 3-2 with 15 minutes remaining.
Despite the setback, Rovers continued to fight and nearly equalised in the dying moments when Charlie Lawlor had a great chance that went just wide. The final whistle blew with St Anthonys claiming the victory, advancing to the final where they will play Ashford.
A tough result for the Rovers lads, but they can hold their heads high after a spirited performance. Well played, boys and good luck to Anthonys in the final.
St Anthonys 3 - Wicklow Rovers 2
In a carryover game from last season, our Wicklow Rovers U13B squad travelled to Finn Park for an exciting and hard-fought Shield E Semi-Final against St Anthonys.
St. Anthonys took control early, scoring twice within the first 24 minutes to put Rovers on the back foot. However, our team showed great character and determination, refusing to let their heads drop. Just a minute later, Alex Philippon pulled one back in the 25th minute. Chris Delahunt won the ball on the right and delivered a superb ball across the box, allowing Philippon to slot home confidently with his left foot. The score stood at 2-1, going into halftime.
Rovers came out much stronger in the second half, pressing high and creating chances. Their efforts were rewarded in the 11th minute when Philippon struck again, taking his chance well to level the game at 2-2.
Rovers almost went ahead when Casey Brennan made a brilliant run down the right, beating three defenders before squaring the ball into the box. Eoghan Quinn was inches away from getting on the end of it before the ball was taken off his toe at the last second.
The turning point came when the referee awarded St. Anthonys a controversial penalty after what appeared to be a strong but fair challenge from Michael Carroll in the Rovers' box. Anthonys converted from the spot to make it 3-2 with 15 minutes remaining.
Despite the setback, Rovers continued to fight and nearly equalised in the dying moments when Charlie Lawlor had a great chance that went just wide. The final whistle blew with St Anthonys claiming the victory, advancing to the final where they will play Ashford.
A tough result for the Rovers lads, but they can hold their heads high after a spirited performance. Well played, boys and good luck to Anthonys in the final.
