Our boys in green booked their place in the U14 Premier League Trophy Final with a commanding 4–1 win over Arklow Utd in a lively semi-final clash.
The visitors made the perfect start, taking the lead in the 4th minute when Ronan Byrne struck from distance with a superb effort that arrowed into the side netting. Rovers continued to press and doubled their advantage on 14 minutes, as Jack Collins rose highest to meet an AJ Long corner and powered home a header.
Arklow tried to settle into the game, but Rovers’ pressing and sharp passing in midfield limited their opportunities. Our defensive pairing of Collins and Michael Carroll, dealt calmly with Arklow’s counter-attacks, giving Rovers a solid platform to build from.
Shortly after the restart, Rovers extended their advantage. Will Carey picked the perfect pass to release Daniel Clarke, who timed his run brilliantly and slotted home to make it 3–0 in the 45th minute.
Arklow responded with spirit and pulled a goal back just three minutes later through a well-taken free kick that gave them hope of a comeback.
However, Rovers quickly regained control, and on the hour mark, Mikie O’Neill rose highest to meet another AJ Long delivery, powering home a header to restore the three-goal cushion.
The closing stages saw Rovers manage out the game, keeping possession and limiting Arklow’s chances. With strong defensive work and some excellent individual performances across the pitch, Rovers ran out deserved winners and now look forward to contesting the final.
The visitors made the perfect start, taking the lead in the 4th minute when Ronan Byrne struck from distance with a superb effort that arrowed into the side netting. Rovers continued to press and doubled their advantage on 14 minutes, as Jack Collins rose highest to meet an AJ Long corner and powered home a header.
Arklow tried to settle into the game, but Rovers’ pressing and sharp passing in midfield limited their opportunities. Our defensive pairing of Collins and Michael Carroll, dealt calmly with Arklow’s counter-attacks, giving Rovers a solid platform to build from.
Shortly after the restart, Rovers extended their advantage. Will Carey picked the perfect pass to release Daniel Clarke, who timed his run brilliantly and slotted home to make it 3–0 in the 45th minute.
Arklow responded with spirit and pulled a goal back just three minutes later through a well-taken free kick that gave them hope of a comeback.
However, Rovers quickly regained control, and on the hour mark, Mikie O’Neill rose highest to meet another AJ Long delivery, powering home a header to restore the three-goal cushion.
The closing stages saw Rovers manage out the game, keeping possession and limiting Arklow’s chances. With strong defensive work and some excellent individual performances across the pitch, Rovers ran out deserved winners and now look forward to contesting the final.
