The Division 1/2 Under-17 Boys Cup clash yesterday between Colemanstown and Oranmore/Maree had everything riding on it – a must-win game for both sides. Fans were treated to an intense encounter, with Colemanstown ultimately breaking through in the dying moments to secure a well-deserved win. The match kicked off with fireworks as Colemanstown made their attacking intent clear from the first whistle. Just two minutes in, Matthew Keane played a precision pass to Adam Doyle, whose left-footed strike from inside the box narrowly missed the target. Moments later, Shane Quirke and Tomas Rogerson linked up beautifully down the left wing, with Rogerson’s deflected shot forcing a corner. At the 12-minute mark, a clever throw-in by Eibhear Colleran to Quirke saw him turn his marker and whip a cross into the box. Matthew Keane rose to meet it with a glancing header that drifted agonizingly wide. Colemanstown dominated possession in the first half, enjoying 90% of the ball and creating multiple chances, but the resilient Oranmore defense held firm. Despite relentless pressure, the teams headed into halftime locked at 0-0.
Second Half: Knowing they needed to convert their dominance into goals, Colemanstown emerged from the break with renewed determination. Their defense – anchored by Cathal Keane, Nathan Mannion, Josh Buckley, and Eibhear Colleran stood tall against Oranmore’s sporadic counters, while goalkeeper Sean Cooke’s excellent communication and precise distribution kept Colemanstown in control. In the 56th minute, Ryan Gavin was forced off with cramp, replaced by Tyler Collins. Fresh legs added pace to Colemanstown’s attack, and at the 70-minute mark, Jamie Lally came on for the tireless Tomas Rogerson, immediately injecting energy on the right wing. The breakthrough finally came in the 78th minute after a moment of magic. Matthew Keane’s audacious backheel set up Shane Quirke at the edge of the box, who slid a perfectly weighted through ball to Darren Moran. Moran, calm under pressure, side-footed a sublime finish into the top right corner, sparking wild celebrations among the players and management. Final quarter Substitutions saw Joshua McDonald and Ronan Screene brought on to bolster the team in the closing stages. With the Oranmore referee adding seven minutes of stoppage time, Colemanstown held their nerve, showcasing grit and determination to see out the game.
Player Performances: Defense: Cathal Keane, Nathan Mannion, Josh Buckley, and Eibhear Colleran were rock solid, keeping Oranmore’s attack at bay. Midfield : Captain Adam Doyle lead by example with endless energy and resilience alongside likewise Ryan Gavin. Attack : Shane Quirke dazzled with his skill and composure, orchestrating play and leaving spectators in awe. Darren Moran’s match-winning goal was the cherry on top of an excellent attacking display. Despite difficult conditions and a stubborn Oranmore/Maree side, Colemanstown’s dominance and perseverance paid off, earning them a hard-fought victory and a place in the next round of the League Cup. Final Score: Colemanstown 1-0 Oranmore/Maree. Match Report: Kara Mullins
Startin XI: Sean Cooke, Cathal Keane, Nathan Mannion, Josh Buckley, Eibhear Colleran, Matthew Keane, Ryan Gavin, Adam Doyle, Tomas Rogerson, Darren Moran, Shane Quirke. Subs:
Tyler Collins, Joshua McDonald, Ronan Screene, Jamie Lally.
Management: Kara Mullins, Orla Mcaffrey, Damien Mannion and Kerril Lally.