28th November 2009

 

Kircubbin were up against tough opposition in the 3rd round of the Junior Shield, in the form of Santos FC, current league leaders of the Amateur League Division 2a. With home advantage and a familiar knowledge of their opponents, Kircubbin were still confident of progressing in to the last 32 of the competition, despite being in a lower division. The first half was a dull affair all round with both teams playing a very defensive formation in the opening spell. Santos did put the Kircubbin goal under threat in the first period, but with very little end product. They did have the ball in the net at one stage, but it was ruled out for an offside decision. Kircubbin took the lead in the match midway through the half with the best move of the game. The midfield played some neat passing football, eventually releasing Mick O'Prey down the right wing. He managed to deliver a pin point cross to Brendan Masterson who was left with the easiest of headers to give Kircubbin the lead. The remainder of the half was played out without much excitement, and it ended 1-0 at the break.

Santos came out of the blocks quickly in the second half, as they realised it was now or never in this knock-out competition. But again the end product was missing as they wasted several chances in front of goal. Kircubbin had their chances to extend their advantage, with the attacking players carving out several opportunities. However, a combination of poor finishing and bad judgement in front of goal proved to be costly for the peninsula men. Santos were gifted an equaliser with twenty minutes to go in the game. Fergal Bell over hit a back pass to Eugene McGrattan in goals, and a lack of control from both players allowed the Santos striker to score into an empty net. Both teams now played more conservatively, and the game headed into extra time.

Santos' only attempt on goal in extra time resulted in an early goal for the visitors, with an excellently taken lob from the corner of the box. After that it was backs to the wall for Santos as Kircubbin laid siege to the Santos penalty area. Chance upon chance came and went for Kircubbin, but the Santos goal seemed to lead a charmed life and miraculously managed to keep Kircubbin at bay for the remainder of the game. Final score 1-2 aet. Good luck to Santos in the rest of the competition.

This week the lads are back on league duty at home to Crumlin Rec. Team to meet at 1pm sharp.