Although a home defeat for our A team this evening to Athenry, there were moments in this hugely important league game that defied belief. Athenry were huge favourites coming into this game and rightly so, as premier league table toppers, but the gulf in class between the two sides during the entire game was far less obvious than anyone would have imagined. Gerry Moran’s side flexed their muscles and proved beyond doubt that they will fight to stay in top flight football. This game was alive right up until the final whistle and by then it was a measly goal which separated the two sides. No real chances fell to either side for the first 20mins until Athenry scored; a goal bound effort which was parried out by keeper Niall Gelston but the Athenry striker was on hand to tap home the rebound from close range. Alo Finn tried his luck with a long range effort from over near the dugouts but drove his effort wide while straight up the other end Niall Gelston was called to avert further danger as he punched the ball away to safety. Athenry’s No. 11 then shaved the post with a bullet of a shot on 27mins after a good passing move while Paddy Mullins wasn’t too far away with a free kick on 35mins after a foul on Squelchy. Kevin Reilly then had half a chance moments later after good work down the stand side of the field from Squelchy but his effort was defended well by the Athenry rearguard. The last 10mins of the half saw Colemanstown dominate as they applied great pressure in search of a goal. The best chance of the half fell to Squelchy but he headed a Kevin Reilly cross straight at the keeper while Ray Moran’s long distance shot was well held by Athenry’s keeper. Just before half time Ray Moran had another effort which wasn’t too far off the mark. Colemanstown had another let-off 3mins after the restart as the Athenry striker shot right across the face of goal. Colemanstown’s best chance of the 2nd half fell to Gary Lally 31mins into the half after Ray Moran picked him out and with just the keeper to beat he flicked wide. As Colemanstown played with extreme urgency for the last 15mins, Damo Wynne had our last chance but his drive curled wide much to the dismay of the home support in the stand. 1-0 it finished but Colemanstown must receive credit for their performance tonight while a little bit of luck and the rub of the green might have had a more telling impact. We created the chances but just couldn’t score that elusive goal. A minutes silence was observed before the game for baby Jay Patrick Sullivan.