FAI Schools Junior ‘B’ Boys National Cup Semi Final (Under 17, Small Schools)
Monday, February 26, 2024
Coláiste an Phiarsaigh, Corcaigh 2-3 Gaelcholáiste Reachrann, Domhnach Míde
Ronan Breathrach (2), Evan Peelo (8) Callum Shimell (40+1), Scott O’Casaide (70 pen), Odhran O’Connaill (77)
GAELCHOLÁISTE REACHREANN, DOMHNACH MÍDE made a sensational comeback in the FAI Schools Junior ‘B’ Boys National Cup Semi Final encounter against a much fancied Coláiste an Phiarsaigh, Corcaigh in Evergreen FC, Kilkenny this afternoon (February 26).
The Dublin scholars saw themselves go two goals down inside the first eight minutes when the Cork outfit stunned the Leinster Champions with their blistering start.
Ronan BREATHRACH grabbed the opener in brilliant fashion with 90 seconds on the clock and the celebrations were continued six minutes later with the impressive Evan PEELO converting magnificently to double the Cork tally.
The Munster stars were dominating much of the possession in the opening period which served up some delightful football from both sides.
As the first half ended, the Cork side looked flat and Gaelcholáiste Reachrann pounced at the vital time, grabbing a lifeline as Callum SHIMELL made the breakthrough in added time to go into the break 1-2.
Coláiste an Phiarsaigh’s Billy O’Mathuna saw his free kick smash off the woodwork from 25 yards as the game came to life again on 52 minutes.
The momentum was shifting ever so slightly, and the Dublin side were awarded a penalty with ten minutes remaining as Scott O’CASAIDE duly obliged from the spot to bring the game level, two apiece.
Gaelcholáiste Reachrann were looking to advance at every opportunity and put the Cork lads under pressure. Their hard work reaped dividends as Odhran O’CONNAILL popped up three minutes from time to net the match winner.
A dramatic conclusion to a pulsating Cup tie.
Heartbreaking for Coláiste an Phiarsaigh following such an outstanding display but the persistent determination to get back into the game from the Donaghmede continency was exceptional.
In the other semi-final played in Sligo this afternoon, Pobalscoil Ghaoth Dobhair saw off the challenge of Glenamaddy Community School, with a 4-0 scoreline. A first half goal from Jordi Gribben was followed up a second half brace courtesy of Brian MacPháidin (2) and Tadhg Ó Baoill to ensure their advancement in the Cup campaign.
The National Cup Final is scheduled for Tuesday, March 5 (1.0). Venue to be confirmed.
COLÁISTE An PHIARSAIGH, CORCAIGH | Darragh O Clagchlaigh, Cullen O Condiuir, Billy O Mathúna, Finnin O Donnabhain ©, Sam Yelverton, Tom O Riodáin, Dara O Conchuibhair, Evan O Conghaile, Ronan Breathnach, Marc Ó Luanaigh, Evan Peelo
SUBS USED | Maitín O Donnchiu for O Condiuir (62), Darragh Mac Suibhne for O Conchuibhair (71), Cillian O Duagáin for Ó Luanaigh (71)
SUBS NOT USED | Óisín Mac Uibh Aillile, Jack O Tiarnaigh, Isaac De Barroid, Lúc O’Foghlú (injured)
TEACHER | Cian Mac Lachlainn
GAELCHOLÁISTE REACHRANN, DOMHNACH MÍDE | Baileigh Mac Conchearraige, Phil Stafort ©, Rhus Ó Rua, Scott Ó Casaide, Tadg Ó Dónaill, Odhran Ó Connaill, Eoghan Ó Marisek, Gavin Hickey, Callum Shimell, Luke O Donoghue
SUBS USED | Ryan Gallagher for Hickey (63), Robert Stafort for Ó Dónaill (80+2)
SUBS NOT USED | Liam Clabhair, Kyan Woods, Aidan Swan, Diarmuid Ó Murchú
TEACHER | Cormac Mac Ualgairg
MATCH OFFICIAL | Denis Serednii (Kilkenny)