Away V Kildare Town (PLAYER OF MATCH)

FIRST HALF REVIEW.

From the first whistle, Naas controlled the tempo with the midfield of Drew Sinkey, Adam Donohue, Matthew Howard, Ross Wheeler and Sean David Onwere (C) dictating play, winning second balls and continuously turning defence into attack. Their energy and positioning choked off any momentum Kildare tried to build, forcing them to play deep and limited their attacking options.

The backline of Senan Quinn, Conor Byrne, Sean O'Donnell and Aydh Aslam was just as impressive, snuffing out any signs of danger with calm authority. Whether it was through well-timed interceptions, clearances or composed play under pressure the Naas defence ensured that goalkeeper Craig Almeda had a quiet afternoon dealing confidently with long range swirling high-balls into the box.

This allowed Naas to launch wave after wave of attack. With mid-field and striker Tadhg Keane combining with clever balls in behind and incisive passes between the lines, keeping the Kildare Town keeper exceptionally busy. On a beautiful sunny day playing against a very strong wind taking the ball marginally wide several times and off the posts twice Naas were ready for the 2nd half.

Unfortunately with about two minutes to the half-time whistle Ross Wheeler and a Kildare player were contesting a loose ball and Ross suffered a dislocated left knee, game of course stopped and as soon as severity of injury evident it was decided to abandon the game.

Injured player was treated by ambulance paramedics and Portlaoise Hospital and is now home with a 5/6 week anticipated recovery.

Result of match, replay, restart is with League for decision.

SUBS:

Dawid Malik

Daniel Tarita

Ryan McNevin