5th September 2009

 

Kircubbin got their league season off to a flying start with an emphatic 6-0 victory over Castle Utd. Following a successful pre-season campaign, which included winning the Ards Tournament, Kircubbin were looking forward to the start of the league. With a squad of more than twenty players to choose from the management had some tough decisions to make in selecting the 14 players for Saturday's match. Eugene McGrattan started in goals, with the back four of Cahal McGrattan, Fergal Bell, Ciaran Taylor and Brendan Masterson. The midfield quartet consisted of Ross McCann, Philip McCarthy (Captain), Fintan Bell and Michael O'Prey, with Matthew Torney and Turlough Bell leading the line in attack.

The first fifteen minutes were evenly contested with both teams using the opening period of play to settle down into the game. The opening goal of the 2009/10 season came from league debutant Mick O'Prey, following some impressive performances pre-season. A high ball into the box was misjudged by the advancing keeper, allowing Mick to flick a header over the keeper into an empty net. After the goal went in Kircubbin's nerves seemed to be settled as the team dominated all over the pitch. Further chances ensued before Fergal Bell smashed home the ball from close range to double the home teams lead. But again the Bangor lads will probably blame their keeper for some poor handling. Just before the break Castle had their best opportunity of the game with a ferocious drive from the edge of the box. The ball was heading into the top corner of the net, only for Kircubbin's keeper Eugene to somehow palm the ball away to safety. A great save which kept Kircubbin's 2-0 lead at the break.

In the second half Kircubbin continued their dominance with Turlough Bell and Matthew Torney both scoring early on to effectively finish the game and secure all three points. Shaun Clancy and Gareth Finnegan were introduced into the game for the final twenty-five minutes, and another debut performance from Chris Wright completed the 14 man team for the day. Turlough scored his second of the day with a trademark goal on the counter-attack. A quick break away and a cool finish low to the keeper's right increased Kircubbin's tally for the day. Brendan Masterson finished off the scoring for the home team with the slightest of touches from a cross ball. Final score 6-0.

This week the team make the long journey to play Crumlin. Team to leave at 12 o'clock.