Unfortunately, the curtain came down on our under 15s boys football team's season on Tuesday, 16th February after a 1-3 loss to St. Michael's, Ailesbury Road. This was the second meeting between the sides this year and yet the again the scoreline did not reflect the balance of play. Collinstown started the better team and dominated possession while creating chances; one of which saw an effort hit the post. St. Michael's started to grow into the match and they took the lead through a penalty which goalkeeper, Daniel Farrell, was very unlucky not to save. Collinstown tried to respond immediately and hit the woodwork again, but following a swift counter-attack St Michael's found themselves two goals to the good after an unfortunate own goal. Again, the Collinstown team battled and showed resilience, but the strong wind and St. Michael's defence prevented them from doing so. The half time whistle blew with the score at 0-2.
Collinstown started the second half with great intent, but a mistake led to another St. Michael's goal. At three nil down many teams would have given up, but the Collinstown players worked tirelessly to try and get themselves back in the match. They got their just reward when Brody Murray scored with plenty of time left on the clock. Although they had chances to add to their tally, a combination of good defending and goalkeeping from the St. Michael's team saw the match finish 1-3.
While the team were bitterly disappointed to have been beaten in the regional final, they can be very proud of their performances throughout the league campaign. Memorable victories against Firhouse Community College and Marian College show the talent and potential within this group. This team can, and will, improve and next year they will be looking to avenge this year's disappointment by winning silverware.
Collinstown Park Team: Daniel Farrell, Seán Crilly, Brody Murray, Gary Walsh, Connor Rogers, Bobby Reddington, Blake McNamara, Leighton Carroll, Jamie Gallagher, Adam O'Reilly and Jakub Wargala.
Subs: Lorcan Plunkett, Karl Whelan McManus, Lennon Forte, Adam Burke, Shane Beatley, Cillian White and Edward O'Reilly