Burrin Celtic

U9 Burrin Celtic 0 - 0 Hanover Harps Green

02 March 2013 12:00 AM | Anonymous

U9 Soccer Match Report

Burrin Celtic 0 - Hanover Harps Green 0

Burrin Celtic's U9's have had a tougher season this year with rivals catching up with the boys from the Valley. But even in defeat, positives have been there for all to see as the team has developed. With that being said, a positive result is never something to throw ones nose up at and, given the recent defeat to GRS last time out, this draw in the Plots was a good result in every sense under the circumstances.

Stung into a response from a fortnight earlier, Burrin started buzzing harder than a hornets nest, with well-intentioned if not threatening sting attempts either resulting in shots off target or a bit of catching practice for the Hanover 'Keeper.

But still the shots came. Joshua Fernandez had a pop, Shane Duffy was lively and Andrew Synoradzki worked hard but apart from the odd shot here and there, the Burrin midfield didn't manufacture that many clear-cut chances, although this was not helped by a typically resolute Hanover defense which has always been a tough nut to crack for this Burrin side.

But to say that Hanover only defended for the whole first half would be a discourtesy as they did make a few runs up the wings on occasion with a puffy Burrin midfield not being as dynamic on transition defense as they have been this season. However, Conor Ruane proved equal to the task with Darragh Reynolds and Ben Mooney mopping up the second ball quite effectively.

After a small amount of re-jigging occurred with Conor Smyth coming on in the middle of the half, Burrin's ball movement improved. Also, the Hanover defense started to struggle with increased movement off the ball, particularly with Shane Duffy starting to find the gaps behind the Hanover defense a gap that would lead to the chance of the match.

The ball was played out wide from Conor Smyth with Shane behind the full-back. Cutting across goal from the side, he played for the far corner with only the 'Keeper to beat. Somehow, the Hanover keeper got down to it to tip it around the post.

Anyone in football will concede that every team will get at least one chance on goal in a game of football and it is down to what you do with that chance when it comes your way. Burrin's was then. Hanover's came later. So stay tuned....

Half time 0-0 with Burrin with the lion's share of chances and possession but with no cutting edge.

The second half was a much more frenzied affair with Burrin finally finding that dynamism and thrust that was largely absent in the first-half. With Jake O'Callaghan leading the charge, Hanover were on the back-foot for most of the second half with Sean McHugh giving a masterful performance at center half with very few balls going beyond the half-way line. Daniel Morahan, deployed on the wing today, was very direct in his running and was a thorn in the Hanover defense with regular supply from full-backs Darragh Doyle and Dylan Kane helping the willing runners stay on the front-foot.

With the reintroduction of Conor Smyth, the ball was pinged around a lot more with Adam Murphy finding plenty of space, with a couple of shots off target keeping the Hanover defense honest.

The return of a rejuvenated Joshua Fernandez lead to some fantastic interplay that, while it didn't result in regular end-product, demonstrated a return to the set of ideas and principles that has served this side so well.

However, it could have all come unstuck. Not for the first time this season, a rushed clearance could have punished Burrin severely. The clearance in question from the Burrin back-line was met with a rocket of a shot with only Ben Mooney and the width of the post keeping it out; the save of the game from the Celtic 'Keeper.

That, in truth, was the last chance of the game with both sides appearing to accept the draw with only a couple of bursts from Shane Duffy punctuated a useful platform for this Celtic side.

Best for Celtic in a return to something of the form seen immediately after Christmas were Ben Mooney, Sean McHugh and Jake O'Callaghan.

U9 Burrin Celtic 3 - 4 GRS United

16 February 2013 12:00 AM | Anonymous

U9 Soccer Match Report

Burrin Celtic 3 - GRS United 4

Burrin's good form since before Christmas has been noted and applauded for quite a while both at this space and on the side-line. Good passing, movement and work-rate have been the corner-stones of this success. To be fair, it was not that they were absent on this day on the Black-Bog Road in Carlow, but when faced with windy conditions and a tactically astute GRS United defense, Burrin could not find the necessary to close the deal.

However, by halfway through the second half, there was nothing that would indicate that this defeat was on the cards. The start of the game was even enough with Burrin more workman-like than effective. In the early stages, GRS had most of the clean chances with Ben Mooney kept busy if not threatened. With Joshua Fernandez and Adam Murphy running off the middle of the field, Burrin always had the threat going forward to keep GRS interested. With the aid of the wind, clearances from Dylan Kane and Darragh Reynolds were given more juice. But in truth, the home-side had the best of the early exchanges. Then came the break-through.

Somewhat against the run of play, Burrin took the lead. A clearance from Adam Murphy was latched onto by Joshua Fernandez, who's direct running caused the GRS defence to collapse around him. The ball squirted out into the path of Sean McHugh whose run from way out saw him in position for the easy finish. 0-1

Then it was all GRS with only the odd run from Jake O'Callaghan and Joshua Fernandez making any kind of inroads, but in truth, to all it was obvious that an equalizer was on its way, and it came. A good clearance from Dylan Kane was not latched onto in the middle of the field. The ball was played through to the GRS striker. The goal was scored from close-range. 1-1

With five minutes to go until half-time, Burrin looked to their bench. They found Shane Duffy. A direct run later, he found the net, literally with his first sequence of possession with the football. A very tidy finish to make it 1-2.

Half-time saw the score stay at 1-2 with nothing between the sides.

The second half saw GRS take almost complete control of the game. A serious increase in wind-strength over the break meant that Burrin were pinned into their own half. Running up blind alleys didn't help the visitors' cause either. Hence, any attempts at a counter-attack were snuffed out by excellent transition-defence on the part of the GRS midfield and centre-half. Really it was only a matter of time before the line was breached, despite brave work from Darragh Doyle and Conor Smyth at the Burrin rear-guard.

But it didn't happen... not by a long chalk. With the gamble taken on one of GRS's many corners of the second half the pay off came.... just. The ball was cleared to Andrew Synoradzki from Daniel Morahan. Andrew ran... and ran quickly. The shot was taken.. but somehow the GRS centre-half got back, taking the sting out of the shot and allowing the 'Keeper to get a hand to it to keep it out, but not out far enough. Somehow, Conor Ruane made up the ground and put it over the line, despite the recovering efforts of the GRS 'Keeper. 1-3

But that was the last chance. GRS piled on the pressure with a JCB and only for Ben Mooney in goal, the lead would have evaporated a lot sooner than it did. Seriously folks, he'll be turning water into wine by Monday!

That is not to say that the shift wasn't put in. It just wasn't put in in as intelligent way as normal with passes not going to feet or the wrong options been taken and the "anywhere will do" option being seen as genuine, something that has rarely been seen with this team this season. With this panic, unfortunately, panting and puffing ensued with tackle after tackle being made and corner after corner being defended. But it wasn't enough as the losses in possession meant that there was no relief. Eventually the pipes burst as the pressure finally told.

Hence the three GRS goals inside the last 5 minutes, as the Burrin midfield was just too tired to keep going. The GRS second was scored as the midfield looked on and the back-line was over-run. 2-3. The last two were from corners from the last two possessions of the game. While Mooney was unlucky not to make the save off of the third, the ball just barely crossing the line before he could carry it back across the line, in truth the Day was GRS's with even the most ardent of Celtic supporter having to admit a draw at best was all that their efforts deserved.

Best for Burrin on a tough day at the office were Adam Murphy, Andrew Synoradzki and the brilliant Ben Mooney in the Celtic goal who, despite the scoreline, was the clear man-of-the-match on the day.

U9 Burrin Celtic 3 - 0 Nurney Villa

02 February 2013 12:00 AM | Anonymous

U9 Soccer Match Report

Burrin Celtic 3 - Nurney Villa 0

Aaannnnnd we're back! After a long Christmas break (made longer by the uncooperative weather-men who kept telling the weather to be inclement), your favourite U9 Club side was back in action this past Saturday against a Nurney Villa side who were attempting to prevent the visiting Burrin side from going 4-3 for the season.

The afternoon kick-off on the Newtown Rd. was similar in lots of ways to the the last game of 2012 in Baganelstown; a clean sheet, difficult conditions underfoot and a level of commitment from this team that has never been taken for granted, but certainly accepted as the norm when discussing this Celtic team.

Dominant in possession and leaving their goalkeeper redundant, Celtic maintenance of possession is what set it apart from this Nurney side who, despite a dogged display, could not stop the controlled aggression of this Celtic unit.

While not every pass was perfect, Burrin's vision and positional awareness was enough to achieve a level of consistency that, despite the pitch, made life very difficult for Nurney. With good possession football, orchestrated by Conor Smyth in the middle of the Burrin midfield and tenacious, pressurizing defence high up the pitch, Burrin spent most of the first half with the ball, with the hosts unable to settle.

With Darragh Reynolds and Ben Mooney having good games and Left and Right Fullback respectively, there were few chances for Villa who went unrewarded for hard work in the middle of the field. Increasingly aware of the threat of Synoradzki breaking off of the middle of the field as well as Shane Duffy probing from the right, the Villa midfield unit were left with little choice but to foul occasionally to stem the tide somewhat. Unfortunately, temporary solutions can not solve permanent problems with Burrin eventually making it pay. With Synoradzki latching on to a clearance and in full flight, he was fouled on his way through. Dusting himself off, he took it himself. There was the whizz of his boot through the air; the bang of the football on contact and the wallop of the ball hitting the net after zipping over the wall; the Nurney keeper, so good in denying Andrew earlier in the game on a couple of occasions, was left powerless to stop it. 0-1

Off the tip-off, the game resumed it's by now set pattern of Nurney crashing on the rocks, with Joshua Fernandez aiding Reynolds and Mooney at the back and Burrin being industrious when in control of the ball. Another facet to Joshua's play, which featured again today, are his by now trademark breaks from the back that have proved such a threat all season. However, while the intent and threat was there to occupy Nurney's thoughts, a tame effort from distance from Fernandez was the sub-total of scoring opportunities in this period. The threat remained constant, however.

And that threat and pressure finally resulted in a goal. The ball went from Joshua to Andrew out on the wing. Seeing Shane Duffy's run, the ball was squared. The ever industrious Duffy was there to swivel and scramble home a second goal for the visitors to increase the Burrin lead to 0-2.

By the time the whistle blew for half-time, Celtic, in complete control, went in much the happier of the two sides with now the clean sheet on their mind.

To consolidate the lead became Burrin's second priority (only after the clean-sheet!) of the second period. With the work coming from Daniel Morahan (some say that the new Karl Shelby Mustang has a similar engine to this midfielder, just a little less powerful) as well as the attacking threat, the platform was set for the goal of the day. Off a clearance from the back, the ball was picked up in the middle and played wide to Andrew. In a one- on-one situation. The man was beaten. So was the Nurney goalkeeper. 0-3. Game over.

This feeling was enforced by the brilliant Conor Ruane, Darragh Doyle and Joey Pender at the defensive end. This reduced the home-side to long distance efforts, with one getting through to keep everyone honest and forcing Shane Duffy to gather to prevent the possibility of rebounds.

These chances were few and far between, unfortunately for Villa, and the rear guard had that bit of an easier time of it due to the tireless work of Jake O'Callaghan and Adam Murphy in the midfield; their pressurization of the Nurney defence hurrying clearances and widening the gap between them and their midfield, reducing Villa's chances at claiming the second ball.

Because of this endeavour and goals at crucial times in the game, come the final whistle, Burrin ran out comfortable winners by 0-3 with a fourth clean sheet in five games and 3 more goals to add to their goal difference.

On the day, Notable performances came from Ben Mooney, Darragh Reynolds and Conor Smyth.

U9 Burrin Celtic 2 - 0 Bagenalstown

15 December 2012 12:00 AM | Anonymous

U9 Soccer Match Report

Burrin Celtic 2 - Bagenalstown 0

With the mid-season break on the horizon, Burrin Celtic looked to bring some Christmas cheer to a league campaign which has not reflected the standard of play that this Celtic side has produced in recent weeks in what has proved to be a difficult season so far.

As the first away game this year, Burrin could scarcely have been blamed for needing to acclimatize to unfamiliar conditions. Thankfully, that did not materialize as Burrin rattled off three shots within the first five minutes with Joshua Fernandez, Conor Smyth and Shane Duffy all coming close early on. Dominating the play in the middle third, the go forward ball was relentless with Dylan Kane and Joey Pender mopping up the Bagenalstown threat from down the wing. However, as has been the way with this team, the possession did not translate into goals.

To be fair to Bagenalstown, they kept putting the foot in and defended stoutly, particularly during a series of throw-ins in advanced positions for the visitors. With the home-side pinned in and rushed into clearances, Conor Ruane was brilliant in picking up the second ball and resetting the play.

With the constant barrage came space. With space came shooting and no man was a trigger-happy all day than Joshua Fernandez whose shot from twelve yards out banged off the post. The rushed clearance fell to Conor Smyth who, having lagged behind the play, took the first time shot and chipped the keeper from all of 15 yards. A truly spectacular effort for 0-1.

The play continued with Burrin again dominating possession with runs from Shane Duffy keeping Bagenalstown pinned back; without producing the goal however to give the cushion required, although quicker runs off of the middle of the field might have led to this earlier, more decisive, lead had they been made.

To show how important this cushion was, Bagenalstown came very close with Joshua Fernandez pulling off 2 blocks from close range and Adam Murphy in the Burrin goal pulling off a first-class full stretch save. In truth it would have been an injustice if Burrin had been pegged back, but we all know how blind that individual can be. For details, see previous match-reports.

That scare was to prove the last time that the Burrin keeper had to touch the ball for the rest of the game as Burrin cranked up the pressure with Joey Pender breaking from the back and Conor Smyth putting himself about in the middle third, whose tackles proved important in breaking the 'Town play up. However, this could be seen throughout the team all game. To illustrate this work-rate, one tackle was made while on hands and knees and another was made after being inadvertently obstructed twice. A marked improvement in the contesting of second ball made these efforts all the more effective.

Continuing down the wings whenever possible, 'Town never really broke through with Dylan Kane mopping up across the back, giving a work-horse midfield the chance to get back.

So it went into half time with the visitors thoroughly deserving of, if a little fortunate to maintain, their lead of 0-1.

The second half saw a different approach from both sides. 'Town went for it a lot more and gave themselves more room to work with. This meant that the Burrin midfield had more work to do than would clear the live register as the game became very tough but maintained the positive spirit of the first half. With the now customary support play from Sean McHugh and Darragh Doyle, with both of whom acting as curbs and catalysts, the Burrin midfield did have a lot of ball but were not let do a lot with it as an early run from Adam Murphy proved the only line-break in the early going.

Then, slowly, but surely, the visitors retook the bridge as Jake O'Callaghan and Daniel Morahan put in a shift that would leave any foreman happy with their days work. Whether it was by a chest, foot, knee or big toe, the ball was always going forward with Andrew Synoradzki always posing a threat.

The pressure finally told as Bagenalstown started to concede set-piece ball close to their own goal, particularly corners. There was also a free-kick in the midst of these corners with Jake O'Callaghan unlucky not to score off a delivery from Synoradzki.

Now squeezing high up the pitch, Conor Ruane, who had an imperious day at centre-half in all aspects of the game, became more involved with general play, and it was his ball to Daniel Morahan which laid the foundations for the visitors' second goal.

Daniel gave the ball in early to Synoradzki who finally got a clean run at goal having rode two tackles to get in. The by now customary result of one-on-ones at this stage, this time a calm finish into the bottom corner, finishing the game as a contest in truth. 2-0

The last five minutes saw the clean sheet become the top priority, although Andrew was unlucky not to get his second with the outside of the post coming between him and a brace after a good ball from Ruane set him loose.

And so it ended 0-2. In truth, this game will be remembered for a number of things, but the most important thing will be the work-rate which, for players so early in their development, was probably the most pleasing aspect of the game.

Best for Burrin were Conor Ruane, Joshua Fernandez and Joey Pender.

Finally, as the season reaches half-time, a thank you to all players, especially those who came to the matches when sick or injured to support the squad, parents, especially those who have helped on match-day and behind the scenes, and lastly to anyone who has contributed to the squad in any way.

A Merry Christmas from the coaching staff to you all.

U9 Burrin Celtic 1 - 2 St. Josephs

01 December 2012 12:00 AM | Anonymous

U9 Soccer Match Report

Burrin Celtic 1 - St. Josephs 2

Burrin Celtics mini-run of form hit a speed bump on Saturday as, yet again, they fell by a solitary goal. A shorter than usual match length did not suit a Burrin side that relies on a strong finish in games but, in truth, it was the little things that cost Burrin the win here.

The opening exchanges saw St. Joseph's hammer away with Conor Ruane, Darragh Doyle, and Joey Pender standing tall; Ruane's colleagues in the midfield also putting the shift in. But, as has been the usual this season, against physically superior opposition, Burrin struggled. But the first goal was, from a defensive point of view, inexcusable. The ball was not stood over. The Joseph's midfielder asked for the fast one. The Burrin 'keeper was unsighted. 1-0

Digging in, Daniel Morahan lead the charge with Andrew Synoradzki and Adam Murphy proving a constant threat on the counterattack. This was helped by go-forward, targeted ball from Dylan Kane. Unfortunately, attempts at playing close to the back backfired as the Burrin defender was dispossessed and the ball was fired behind the Burrin 'keeper, who, again, was left with no chance. 2-0.

In jeopardy of being routed, Burrin then put together 5 minutes of solid passing football with St. Joseph's struggling to cope. As is the way with this Burrin side, they found a way to breach the castle wall with Andrew Synoradzki catching the St. Joseph's midfield out on the counter, as had been threatened all half. With only him and the keeper, there was only ever going to be one winner. 2-1. This is how it remained up to the break.

The second half was much tighter. Burrin were solid at the back and were much more of a threat going forward. Runs from Conor Smyth put Joseph's on the back foot on a regular basis; creating frequent camping expeditions in opposition territory for extended periods of time. This was to prove fruitless however. And in truth, Joseph's were not without their chances with a splendid double-save from Sean McHugh, one with his hand and one with his foot, keeping the home side in it. Also, as things got more desperate, Jake O'Callaghan and Joshua Fernandez marauding forward from the back, leaving Darragh Reynolds to mind the back. This did not prove a problem as he dealt with two one-on-ones brilliantly; clipping it out of bounds which gave the cavalry a chance to get back.

But no matter how hard they pushed, the shortening of the game meant that Burrin just lost out, though clearly finishing in the ascendancy.

In a valiant effort, Sean McHugh, Joshua Fernandez and Daniel Morahan excelled for the home-side.

U9 Burrin Celtic 5 - 0 Vale Wanderers

17 November 2012 12:00 AM | Anonymous

U9 Soccer Match Report

Burrin Celtic 5 - Vale Wanderers 0

After the fantastic result last week, it was hoped that Burrin Celtic could continue to build momentum to take into their holiday schedule. While not in the black yet, this result brings them to 2 and 2 for the year meaning that they need no loans to keep business on track. More to the point, another clean sheet to go with a solid balance sheet, that is looking healthier all the time, confirm the growth predictions that are slowly coming to the fore.

While the passing is slicker and the movement is of a more intelligent nature, the common denominator from all matches this year has been the steel and grit demonstrated by this Burrin unit, whether in the face of scoreline deficits or while guarding the palace gates. To a man, all have stood up and been counted at various stages. This day was no different against a Vale Wanderers side who brought speed and athleticism to a match that embodied the honesty of effort, healthy competitiveness and moments of inspiration that make this age-group so popular for fans and participants alike.

But then you cannot legislate for class. And when you beat 6 players and a goalkeeper as Shane Duffy did off the tip-off for Burrin's opening goal, you could faintly hear Jimmy Magee in the background whisper "Different class!," That it was Jimmy. That it was. 1-0

The game then settled down a bit with Burrin comfortable in possession and with Adam Murphy in the Burrin goal not threatened to any great extent. Any pressure on the Burrin defence was cleanly mopped up with Joshua Fernandez and Joey Pender providing the go-forward ball that kept the Vale midfield on the back-foot. Willing runners such as Conor Ruane and Jake O'Callaghan posed a constant threat. However, to their credit, Vale stood firm, although running up blind alleys was a constant problem all half for the Burrin midfielders, with the release of the ball always that split-second too late or the delivery being a fraction behind the runner.

Alternative approaches such as running from deep also drew good field position with Fernandez and Pender bombing forward regularly leaving the ever-dependable Sean McHugh to mind the house, which he did with the aid of an energetic Celtic midfield.

But good things come to those who wait and while the wait was somewhat edgy, the goal was well worth the wait. In a back to front move that is rarely seen at this age, three players, two passes and a run later, Jake O'Callaghan hit a shot which was too hot for the Vale Keeper to hold. Adam Murphy put the ball on the ground and touched it to Joshua Fernandez who played the ball up the line to Jake who cut inside two defenders. He hit the shot. The 'Keeper got a touch on it but he couldn't keep it out. 2-0.

This lead to a period of unease for the Celtic midfield as Vale took control of the football and snuffed out any and all counter-attack attempts. It would be fair to say that the scoreline was reflective of the game-play with clear-cut chances at a premium. While industrious, good ball from Darragh Doyle and Sean McHughfound their mark but the threat was neutralized in the middle third by a willing Vale midfield. So the half ended with Celtic comfortable but not out of the woods. 2-0

The second half saw an energized Vale really run at the Celtic back-line. Despite the pressure, they never got a shot off, however with Darragh Doyle making two last ditch tackles to prevent on on ones and Darragh Reynolds anticipating every ball, Dylan Kane was left to pick up the pieces and make the clearances. An excellent save from Sean McHugh also denied the by now rampant Vale attack.

Corners were headed clear. Runs were attempted and there were attack attempts made, but there was no room or quarter given by Vale.

However, pinned in, the counter-attack was not an option made available by a stubborn Vale attack. Hence, while Conor Smyth and Andrew Synoradzki made the runs, there was no follow-up. Eventually the break-through came for the visitors in the form of a penalty. The Vale striker was moving away from goal but, anxious to get the ball, the Burrin defender did push him over. The referee was left with no choice but to point to the spot.

This was one of those points in a game where you know that the tide shifts one way or another depending on the result of such a moment. So up stepped the Vale penalty-taker. Sean McHugh stood still as a stone... and he waited. While the connection was poor on the penalty, had Sean moved early or picked a side, it was still a goal. But he didn't. He stood firm and knelt down and gathered it up, leaving no possibility for a goal off the rebound.

And that was the point on which the game turned. Taking advantage of a tiring Vale midfield, Conor Smyth was now getting further with his runs. Furthermore, support in the form of Daniel Morahan was now frequently present. Having developed an attacking threat as part of his game, Daniel has come close to notching up a goal on a number of occasions this season. And so it proved to be the case again when, with only the keeper to beat, Daniel blazed wide, aiming for the corner but just miscalculating. A few minutes later a run from Andrew Synoradzki opened up the space for Daniel to run into. Andrew passed the ball into him. The expression of walking it into the net is usually reserved for tap-ins at the end of passing moves. This was a walk that literally was just that. Daniel dribbled it to within a meter of the goal and powered it over the line just as the Vale 'Keeper was about to deny him. 3-0.

This ended the game as a contest and as the game drew to a close, Burrin put in two more. First was Andrew Synoradzki who, having returned to the scoring form shown last season, finished off a ball off of a loose dribble on the by then frequent Burrin attacks. Calmly slotting home to the 'Keeper's right, he was left with no chance. 4-0

The fifth was of a similar nature with an Adam Murphy run up the middle resulting in a Shane Duffy goal, the Burrin winger scrambling it in from close range.

The final whistle was greeted in the end happily enough with the win, clean-sheet and momentum all in the bag. It is fair to say that this was not a pristine performance from this Celtic team with the transition offence that has been deployed so effectively this season being largely neutralized by the Vale midfield. But by finding another route to victory, all would agree that this is probably the biggest progression to date.

Best for Burrin were Darragh Doyle, Darragh Reynolds and Sean McHugh.

U9 Burrin Celtic 7 - 0 St. Patricks Boys

03 November 2012 12:00 AM | Anonymous

U9 Soccer Match Report

Burrin Celtic 7 - St. Patricks Boys 0

The general train of thought that has been followed with this Burrin Celtic team has been that the football and entertainment value has been all that you could wish for. Unfortunately, as darts legend "Gorgeous" Bobby George once said, "trebles for show and doubles for dough"; the inference being that you cant keep entertaining and not finish.

In the last couple of games, the concession of goals has been a real problem. 6 goals in two matches have made life a lot more difficult for everyone on the offensive end with the attitude of "we'll outscore you" not working. With that in mind, the clean sheet was probably the most important and pleasing aspect of this win over a very game St. Patrick's Boys side, who provided the opposition for Saturdays curtain-raiser at the Valley.

However, those who witnessed the early moments of the first half could have been forgiven for anticipating, in the words of most in vogue opposition politicians these days; "more of the same". St. Pat's dominated the early going and, while they didn't seriously threaten Dylan Kane in the Celtic goal, Burrin were pinned into their own goal area for the first 3-4 minutes with Darraghs Reynolds and Doyle showing good anticipation and bravery in keeping the St. Pat's attack out. Early attempts by the home-side to pass and move led to some overplaying at the back which did not help the cause either, but to criticize the play that has been lauded by all and sundry over the last two matches would be wrong, especially when it was that same level of play that finally achieved the result that it deserved. However, the effort demonstrated in repelling the initial threat from the St. Pats midfield and strike-force which continued to be evident all day was to provide the real power-plant for Celtic's first win of the season, with transition offence proving potent all day.

Owing to a high pressing game from the St. Pat's midfield, there was space to be exploited between their midfield and defence, with an almost rugby-style rush defence deployed to compensate, thus leaving the early ball on. And so it happened. The early ball from Joshua Fernandez was latched onto by Andrew Synoradzki who made no mistake in putting away the one-on-one to give Burrin the lead, the first time that they have enjoyed that position this season. 1-0

Then saw a period of lots of industry with little production as the chances dried up a bit and the middle-third seeing a lot of ball. Andrew Synoradzki coming close with a shot and later with a free-kick going straight into the wall were really the only highlights of this dry spell. Worryingly reminiscent of previous outings this year, St. Pats did get openings with clearances from Dylan Kane proving important as the quick go-forward ball proved effective in putting the visitors on the back-foot. This was further helped by the willing running of Jake O'Callaghan and Shane Duffy who both ran the right wing during the first half at various stages, providing relief to a diligent, if comfortable, Burrin defence.

This period ended when Andrew Synoradzki, Adam Murphy and Shane Duffy all combined to engineer the best team-goal of the game. Murphy laid the ball out to Duffy with Synoradzki bombing up the field to receive the ball just beyond halfway. With one defender to beat, the finish was immaculate to double his tally and the home-sides lead. 2-0.

The attack immediately after the St. Pats kick-off resulted in yet another goal. Darragh Doyle broke up the St. Pats attack, Joey Pender released the ball to Andrew Synoradzki. He played in Shane Duffy who nutmegged the keeper to make it 3-0.

With little over a minute left in the first half, Andrew Synoradzki made it 4-0 with a very good finish after some broken play off of a Burrin corner. Only partially cleared by the St. Pats defence, it was recovered by Joshua Fernandez who played the first-time ball into Andrew who gave the football squatters' rights in the bottom right-hand corner, all three of his first-half goals nestling in the far corner of the net. With a treble for Bobby to Andrew's name, Burrin went into the break 4 goals to the good and in total control.

The second half saw St. Pat's take control of the football at the start with a couple of daisy-cutters punctuated by a low drive to the left corner saved brilliantly by Joshua Fernandez in the Burrin goal being the sumb of their chances. While dithering at the back did not help the hosts, the onslaught was mercifully short with the visitors entitled to feel aggrieved that they didn't come away from these attacks with nothing to show for them.

A feature of this period of the game was the resolute nature of the Burrin defence yet again. A toe poke here or a shin in the way there was enough to keep St. Pats at bay with Dylan Kane, Joey Pender and Darragh Reynolds showing good discipline overall, with trying to play too much football at the back proving the only blot on the copy-book.

Then the game settled down with some good passing from Burrin's Joey Pender and Adam Murphy releasing Jake O'Callaghan who put the ball inches wide with only the keeper to beat.

Then came a similar goal burst for Burrin with Shane Duffy taking up his tally to 3 in 6 very short minutes. Building on dart one from the first half, Shane Shanghaied (last reference, non-darts fans!!!!!) from close range, first putting it into the side netting out of the impressive St. Pat's keeper's outstretched arm and then roofing it a short time later after a brilliant run up the wing to go with the nutmegs from the first half. 6-0

With the game over, Burrin did have more than one lapse in concentration, more then once allowing runners to pass them. This was seen in a rare St. Pats chance which hit the side-netting. But, overall, with Adam Murphy providing some good link-up play between the defence and midfield, the ball was always moving forward, by and large.

But always a threat in transition, Burrin wrapped up the scoring when a run from Joey Pender led to a throw. A good throw from Jake O'Callaghan to Andrew Synoradzki led to his strike taking a wicked deflection off of a St. Pats defender, wrong-footing the 'Keeper to wrap up the scoring.

The final whistle saw a 7-0 win for the home-side and a welcome boost going into the winter.

Best for Burrin in a more Cillit-Bang than Flash performance were Dylan Kane, Jake O'Callaghan, Joey Pender and Adam Murphy.

U9 Burrin Celtic 1 - 2 Slaney Rovers

20 October 2012 12:00 AM | Anonymous

U9 Soccer Match Report

Burrin Celtic 1 - Slaney Rovers 2

Shakespeare wrote many tragedies. When E.T. "phoned home", a world shed tears. Lump both of these together, and you still wouldn't come close to producing the feelings experienced after today's early kick-off at the Valley. The game began with Celtic getting the lions-share of possession and the visitors looking dangerous on the break. But with the 3 Burrin Celtic midfielders pinning in the entire Rovers defense and midfield for the first eight minutes or so, things were looking up as the shots reigned in with Andrew Synoradzki coming close.

But all that pressure and work was undone in the cruelest of fashions. Having repelled the initial attack, players were caught out of position. The Rovers striker had too much time to pick his spot and slipped the ball under the Celtic keeper. 0-1

Then followed a period of five minutes where most of the play was around the middle with very few chances. This period was punctuated by a superb, 35 yard run from Shane Duffy down the left and while the effort in the end didn't trouble the Slaney goalkeeper, who had a very good match, it was a statement of intent.

With the back three of Joey Pender, Conor Rouane and Conor Smyth standing up to any and all threats for the remainder of the half, they also provided the go-forward ball that led to a host of chances; including Andrew Synoradzki hitting the post and Conor Rouane unlucky not to finish off what was some mouth-watering inter-play; the operator was called, but the connection was dodgy from 8 yards out; the Slaney keeper relieved. Another chance worth mentioning was Joshua Fernandez's free-kick which was given for a foul on Shane Duffy. The keeper was stranded. The oooo's were audible but the ball was over by half a yard. Half-time 0-1.

The second half was a much tighter affair. But still the stats were in the home-side's favor, especially when the break-through finally came for Celtic with Joshua Fernandez getting the goal that brought it back to 1-1 after a brilliant release ball from Darragh Reynolds. 1-1. And so the barrage continued with everything bar the ballista deployed to break the resolute Rover's defense. Daniel Morahan had an effort tipped onto the post. Andrew Synoradzki blazed wide and it just became apparent that the day of victory was not going to be this day.

This was compounded by the constant threat on the counter-attack from the visitors with Darragh Reynolds and Dylan Kane, making his debut this afternoon, standing up to anything sent their way, repelling persistent attacks and distributing well. The battling qualities that typify the Celtic midfield were there too, with Daniel Morahan, Joey Pender and Conor Smyth always getting something on the ball whenever things looked dangerous, providing the go-forward ball for Fernandez and Synoradzki in particular.

Except once. And that was all it took. A crowd. The ball. It broke. Striker was clean in. Slaney Scored. Tip off. Final whistle. That fast. That sudden. That cruel. 7 clear-cut chances to 2. At least 60% of the possession. No corners conceded. But the scoreline didn't know about the statistics nor care. The score was 2-1. End of story.

However, to dismiss such a fantastic performance in such a clinical fashion would be wrong and an injustice to a Slaney side that hung in there to nick the win at the death. So, with this in mind, we mention, as usual, Burrin Celtic players of note for their performances. So here they are: Shane Duffy, Joshua Fernandez, Dylan Kane, Daniel Morahan. Joey Pender, Darragh Reynolds, Conor Rouane, Conor Smyth and Andrew Synoradzki.

U9 Burrin Celtic 3 - 4 Killeshin

06 October 2012 12:00 AM | Anonymous

U9 Soccer Match Report

Burrin Celtic 3 - Killeshin 4

This was unfamiliar territory for Burrin Celtic in this age-group as they lost their first home game of the season. Struggling all day to deal with Killeshin's physicality, tenacity and directness, Burrin did, however, play well and could have won this match but, in truth, this would have been an unfair result on the visitors.

Burrin eased their way into the game, shipping some early chances to a hard working Killeshin midfield in consequence. The goal eventually came for the visitors when slack marking off a kick-out led Killeshin to take the lead. 0-1.

This spurred Burrin on and a beautiful ball from Shane Duffy was met by Conor Rouane whose deflected shot crept over the line to equalize. 1-1

This led to a period of tough tackling from both sides and a bit more passing from the home side unleashing their midfield with Adam Murphy linking the play with some good first-time balls. This was fed from the backline with Darragh Reynolds and Daniel Morahan providing consistent possession to the wide-men.

Against the run of play, Burrin fell behind to a solid strike, the end-product of a counter-attack, that was not dealt with by the Burrin defence from the Killeshin striker. 1-2.

Then, just before half time, some beautiful interplay between Shane Duffy and Adam Murphy and some quick feet from Sean McHugh led to a fantastic finish at the second attempt. 2-2 at the break.

The second half saw the hosts press on and, consequently, they left gaps at the back. A few half chances later and a confident Killeshin saw the gaps appear. A low drive from the Killeshin midfielder saw the lead restored with probably the pick of the visiting teams goals. 2-3

The response from Burrin was immediate and decisive as the visitors began to tire. Darragh Doyle provided consistent go-forward ball and Joey Pender's frequent breaks from the back putting Killeshin on the back-foot. Andrew Synoradzki was released by Joshua Fernandez, slapping the ball as far into the corner of the net as he could, the Killeshin 'keeper left with no chance. 3-3

Then came the grand-stand finish. With Jake O'Callaghan's pugnacious performance in the latter stages stopping most of the Killeshin progress at source. With that help and the defence sured up considerably, faster passing was all that was between Burrin Celtic and more scoring opportunities. Too many times the links in transition did not connect. But that does not mean the end of the chances. Sean McHugh's fast feet produced the opening, with the despairing boot of the Killeshin defender all that came between him and a brace.

Then the suckerpunch... A rare second-half attack from Killeshin saw the save made and a clearance off the line from Joey Pender. The ball was not cleared and one top-corner shot later, Burrin were behind for the fourth time.

But while time ran out, the self-belief and confidence from the home side did not. They could have snatched a draw with Andrew Synoradzki leaving the game unlucky to be without a hatrick, first blazing the ball wide and then being denied by a brilliant save from the Killeshin 'keeper

But despite the character shown all day, Burrin Celtic fell short, predominantly down to some dodgy defending at crucial times. But some of the football played was both easy on the eye and effective.

With all players contributing everything, all players who featured deserve credit for the strong performance of a team trying to play the game the right way who came unstuck.