Boys U16 (2009) Premier - Kilcock Celtic
Naas AFC Kick Off the Season with a Thrilling Draw Against Kilcock
Kilcock Celtic 2-2 Naas AFC] Weather: Sunny
The new season kicked off in style for Naas AFC as they battled to a 2-2 draw against Kilcock in an early morning clash under the shining sun. Lining up in a fluid 4-4-2 formation, Naas began the match with composure and confidence on the ball, while Kilcock looked to exploit any gaps with quick counter-attacks.
First Half
The action started early, with Naas almost making the perfect start just three minutes in. A brilliant through ball from Ryan Murtagh found Conor Fagan clean through on goal, only for him to be brought down in the box. The Naas supporters were sure it was a penalty, but the referee waved away their appeals, setting the tone for what would be a contentious morning.
Despite this setback, Naas kept their cool and continued to dominate possession. Stand-in goalkeeper Dawid was called into action in the 7th minute, making a solid low save as Kilcock began to grow into the game. Moments later, Kilcock nearly took the lead after a misplaced pass from Dawid led to a shot across goal, but Naas' new number 4, Jake Dooley, was perfectly positioned to clear the ball off the line.
As Kilcock started pressing higher, Dawid was once again tested, producing a strong save to keep the score level. This seemed to spark Naas back into life, and in the 18th minute, they took the lead. A well-worked move between Jack Campbell and Ryan Murtagh allowed Ryan to drive to the byline before delivering a low cross that was palmed out by the Kilcock goalkeeper, only for the ever-reliable Liam Mescal to poke home from close range. 1-0 to Naas.
However, Kilcock responded quickly. A free-kick conceded after an unfortunate handball by the impressive Christy Reilly gave Kilcock a chance from 20+ yards. The Kilcock player stepped up and delivered a stunning knuckleball free-kick, leaving Dawid with no chance. The match was level at 1-1 after 28 minutes.
Kilcock capitalized on their momentum, and just a few minutes later, they took the lead. A period of sustained pressure culminated in a second goal, as Naas struggled to regain their earlier composure. Now trailing 2-1, Naas found it difficult to get out of their half, but a strong run from substitute Matthias brought them back into the game. As the half drew to a close, a crucial no-nonsense tackle from Jake Dooley halted another Kilcock attack, keeping Naas in the contest.
Second Half
After some tactical adjustments at halftime, including Huey coming on to shore up the midfield and Dawid moving out of goal to play on the right wing, Naas started the second half brightly. Within three minutes, Huey was dictating play, spraying passes and creating opportunities. On 47 minutes, Brody went on a mazy run, skipping past two players before being brought down, earning a free-kick for Naas.
Just three minutes later, Naas were awarded a penalty after Conor Murtagh was fouled in the box. Up stepped Liam Mescal, who calmly slotted the ball into the top right corner, leaving the goalkeeper no chance and leveling the score at 2-2. With the game back on, Naas pushed forward in search of a winner.
Liam Mescal continued to be a thorn in Kilcock's side, delivering a smart cross to the far post in the 57th minute, but Brody's shot was comfortably saved by the Kilcock keeper. As Kilcock began to push for a winner themselves, Huey was on hand to make a crucial goal-line clearance to keep the scores level.
The final stages of the match saw Naas firmly in control, with constant pressure leading to several corners and chances. Conor Murtagh had the best opportunity to seal the win, but a slightly heavy touch allowed the Kilcock defense to recover and clear the danger. Despite their best efforts, Naas couldn't find the decisive goal, and the match ended in a 2-2 draw.
Conclusion
Overall, Naas can be proud of their performance, showing resilience and quality throughout the match. Two goals from the standout Liam Mescal and strong performances across the pitch, particularly from Dawid and Oran, who shared goalkeeping duties, bode well for the season ahead. While a five-minute lapse cost them the win, Naas will take great confidence from their display as they prepare for next week's challenge.
