Boys U13 (2013) Premier - Clane United
After a humbling Premier Division opening day defeat to Kill Celtic, Naas AFC U13s claimed a deserved 1–0 victory over Clane United in a fiercely contested league game in Naas Sports Centre.
The match began with intensity, Clane forcing Finn Dudley into an early save in goal. From then on, though, he was well protected by a strong defensive pairing of Jamie Dunphy and Callum Hartigan, supported by Max Kennedy at right back and Christopher Sheridan at left back. Sheridan not only defended confidently but also provided the game’s decisive moment: after Adam Conroy, playing wide right, was fouled ten minutes before half-time, he stepped up to curl a superb free kick into the net.
In midfield, the trio of Sean Hayden, birthday boy Peter McBride and Kian Shanaghy worked tirelessly to control the game, while Kellum Finnegan on the left and Conroy on the right stretched Clane’s defence. Up front, Mikey Danu led the line in the first half, pressing and holding up the ball well before Rian White took over striking duties in the second half.
The substitutes made a huge impact with Frankie O’Leary, making his debut, came on for the injured Conroy just before the break and was electric down the right wing. Charlie O’Connor replaced Kian in midfield and showed tireless running. Jason Gleeson added fresh legs at right back, keeping Clane quiet down their left side. Oscar Ross took over from Kellum on the left and caused real problems with his direct dribbling. Luke Hynan came on late and put himself about, breaking up play and knocking the last bit of energy out of Clane.
The boys defended with discipline in the closing stages, with Finn confidently sweeping up behind his backline. The final whistle sparked celebrations of a hard-earned three points.
