10th May 2010

 

Monday evening saw the final match of the season for Kircubbin as they travelled to Ormeau Park Playing Fields to play league winners Immaculata FC. The hosts however had other things on their minds as the club looked forward to two cup finals later in the week. With neither team able to improve on their league position, the game was played at a very casual pace, almost like a pre-season friendly. As expected the home team put Kircubbin under early pressure, but the defence managed to hold firm. Fintan was forced to play in goals with an injured had, which made things very difficult for the keeper as has was only able to parry most shots. Mac took the lead after twenty minutes, following some slack defending at the back post. But ten minutes later Kircubbin equalised with a quick counter attack resulting in Mick O'Prey smashing the ball home from close range. Immediately from the re-start Kircubbin gifted Mac their second goal as a defensive error allowed the striker to run through on goal and score easily past the injured Fintan Bell. But again Kircubbin got themselves back on level terms, this time a solo effort from Turlough who beat the offside trap and slid the ball under the diving keeper. Time was almost up in the first half when Kircubbin had a couple of failed attempts to clear the ball, eventually resulting in the third Mac goal.

Early in the second half the home team realised Fintan's injury and started shooting from all around the penalty area. Two quick goals soon followed which effectively ended the game. Matthew Clarke could have reduced the deficit for Kircubbin but amazingly the Kircubbin striker managed to sky the ball from under the Mac crossbar. With time running out Kircubbin were awarded a penalty, which substitute Stephen Clarke scored. Final score 5-3 to the home team.

Kircubbin can now look forward to playing their football in Division 2A next season, the highest achievable level for a club of Junior status. Well done to the lads on a fantastic season.