Some teams arrive with pomp, others fly under the radar. This St Colmcilles U13 Boys are an understated, committed and hard working group who have had to fight for every inch their entire footballing life.
The U13 boys travelled to Skryne this afternoon for the Roinn B final. They came in with an air of quiet confidence after defeating table toppers Dunderry in the semi final. That was a very hard fought match against a strong opponent. Having lost in the summer league final to Senechalstown the year before, the boys took nothing for granted against a formidable and athletic Skryne side.
Cilles won the opening throw in and worked the ball quickly up to the forward line, creating an opportunity for a quick goal, only to be denied by an exceptional save from the Skryne keeper. The tone was set despite the save. After trading scores in the early exchanges, the Cilles settled into the rhythm of the match and built up a comfortable advantage at halftime.
This was no time to relax as the Cilles were now playing into the wind which meant they needed to double down on their defensive efforts. They showed their intent by taking two quick points early in the second half. The defence remained stout as the scores into the wind began to tick over. The boys never let up the pressure and all of the hard beach sessions paid off as their fitness never flagged.
Skryne never gave up and pulled a few scores back in the second half which was testament to their mental strength and resolve. Today was not their day, but they will most certainly have their day in time.
To top the day off, Cilles were presented with the league shield by none other than Trevor Giles, Meath Royalty. The welcome, hospitality and respect shown by Skryne today is everything we have come to expect from that club, classy!
Hon d Cilles!!!!
Match Report: Michael Pettibone
Photographs: BM
