West United 3 Colemanstown 0
Colemanstown A team started their fourth spell in the premier league with an away defeat to a physical West United in West Park. Colemanstown had the best chance early on when the home keeper saved brilliantly from a Geordan Kenny header. At half time the teams were separated by a goal for the home side. Like the first half, the contest was very even in the second half. Unfortunately Colemanstown couldn’t get the goal they deserved. Two late goals by West put an unfair reflection on the contest.
Colemanstown 3 Athenry 7
Despite the constant rain, a large crowd gathered for the mid week meeting of champions Athenry and Colemanstown. There was a notable buzzing atmosphere in the stand, as Colemanstown put on a spirited and strong performance. An early away goal was cancelled out by a neat Gareth Lally finish, following great pressure from debutant Ryan Noone. In fact we could have taken the lead when we had an overlap of 3 players. However a clever but cynical foul from an Athenry defender prevented us from capitalising.
Athenry struck a sucker punch late in the first half to go ahead at the break. They then pushed on with 2 further goals to put the game out of reach. Colemanstown’s spirit and fight was not wanting, as the lads pulled back 2 marvellous goals from Gareth Lally and Dyan Grady. Unfortunately Athenry scored 2 more late goals as darkness was fast descending. Again the final score did not reflect the nature of the game.
Corrib Rangers 4 Colemanstown 0
A slow start and an early goal did not make matters easy for a weakened Colemanstown outfit. Our third match in 8 days seemed to have taken its toll in the first half. The second half performance was much better. A Damien Wynne header went narrowly wide that could have lifted our spirits. Unfortunately two late goals by the home side, for a third time, flattered the scoreline.
Not the start we were hoping for. Plenty of young players are getting much needed experience at the top level, which will stand to them. Debutants Fionn O’Connor and Ryan Noone are a welcome addition to the camp. There is no doubting the fighting spirit of the boys. Patience and continued tenacity will soon be rewarded. We welcome Mervue this Saturday to Colemanstown at 2pm. Support appreciated.
Report by Oliver Crowe