Boys U13 (2012) Premier White - Castle Villa

Fresh from the midweek defeat, Naas attempted to get back on track with a very tricky cup semi final versus league leaders Castle Villa. Naas knew it would be a difficult challenge as Castle Villa had already turned them over twice in the league despite a spirited ordinance by Naas. As has happened so often this season Naas were slow out of the blocks and conceded an early free kick despite keeper Dan Shelley getting a hand to the ball. A few minutes later Castle Villa doubled their lead with their striker matching on to a through ball and during the ball past the Naas keeper. Naas, while matching Castle Villas intensity just couldn't get the ball on the ground as more and more balls for pumped into the air. Castle Villa then extended their lead to 3 goals in a similar taking to the second goal. Naas finished the first half strong but couldn't find a goal.

I'm the second half Naas started tou the ball around a lot more, building from the back getting the ball on the ground and playing it around. That paid dividends as the ball found its way to Alex Branskyy and he unleashed a blistering shot that came off the underside of the bar and into the net. Naas felt there might be something in this game and continued to press. This pressure finally paid off when Kaspian Zielenski saw his shot crash off the crossbar and loop into the air. The keeper list the flight of the ball allowing Josh Richardson to poke the ball home. 3-2 and the crowd were starting to believe.

Like two heavyweight boxers going toe to toe the game ebbed and flowed. Conor OToole putting in a serious shift in defence to ensure the game stayed 3-2. Despite their pressure Naas couldn't capitalize on their earlier pressure and left space at the back which was punished by Castle Villa. 4-2 and game over.

Only 2 games to go. An exciting Naas derby and an away match against title contenders Kill.