We got off to a great start, scoring twice within the opening 20 minutes. Roberto opened the scoring after finding himself one-on-one with the goalkeeper, before a miscommunication between their defender and goalkeeper led to an own goal.
Blackrock managed to pull one back in the final five minutes of the first half, but we came back out after the break determined to hold onto our lead. We kept our shape and stayed focused, knowing we had a real chance to get the win.
Despite facing constant pressure as Blackrock searched for an equaliser, we eventually got our third and final goal on the counterattack. Cathal played a great through ball to Javier, who found himself one-on-one with the goalkeeper again and finished to make it 3-1.
As the game was nearing an end, tensions were rising, with cards being given out and a brief altercation between the players following a tackle. However, we kept our composure and saw the game out.
The final whistle brought a brilliant result, as we secured the first U19 football win in a couple of years. It was a great moment for the squad and something we can be proud of, especially after facing numerous losses within this age group.
We would like to thank Thomas O’Reilly for his continued dedication and guidance, alongside Elizabeth and Mila from TY for helping out.
By TY Student and Captain, Ianis