Boys U13 (2012) Premier White - Allenwood
Naas AFC made an impressive start to their Premier League campaign with a thrilling 5-3 victory over Allenwood in their first match since being promoted. The game, played on a sunny morning at Allenwood's home ground, was filled with drama and showcased the resilience and quality of the newly promoted side.
The match began with both teams feeling each other out, but it was Naas who broke the deadlock. Debutant Ben Cox made an immediate impact, scoring his first goal for the club after a clever pullback from Kebron Futsom. Cox calmly slotted the ball low to the keeper’s right, giving Naas the lead.
However, the lead was short-lived as Allenwood quickly equalized. A well-taken free kick caught Naas goalkeeper Hayden Taaffe off guard, as he struggled to see the ball while staring directly into the sun. With the scores level, Allenwood grew in confidence and soon went ahead with a superb goal from the left wing. Their player skillfully rode two tackles before slotting the ball into the empty net, putting the hosts 2-1 up.
Allenwood continued to apply pressure and nearly extended their lead, but Taaffe made a world-class fingertip save, diving to his left to push a powerful header around the post. This pivotal moment seemed to lift Naas, who responded with determination. Jake Dunbar, receiving a pass from Jayden Daniel just outside the box, unleashed an unstoppable strike into the top corner, bringing the game level at 2-2 before halftime.
Naas came out strong in the second half, and it didn’t take long for them to regain the lead. Jayden Daniel, who had been instrumental throughout, found the net with a smart finish from the left, making it 3-2 to Naas. Moments later, Daniel struck again, doubling his tally and giving Naas a comfortable 4-2 advantage.
Allenwood, refusing to give up, pulled a goal back despite some valiant defending from Naas. The visitors' backline, marshaled by captain Conor O'Toole and the composed Daniel Grant, stood firm under pressure, but Allenwood's persistence paid off after two initial shots were blocked.
The final 15 minutes were tense as the game swung back and forth. However, Naas sealed the victory when debutant Frank Manka took advantage of some confusion in the Allenwood box, toe-poking the ball home to make it 5-3. Despite a flurry of substitutions from both sides, the score remained unchanged, and Naas secured their first three points of the season.
The standout performance from the Naas defense, particularly Daniel Grant's calm and cool display alongside captain Conor O'Toole, earned Grant the Man of the Match award, though several players were worthy of the accolade in what was a true team effort.
Naas AFC Whites will be buoyed by this strong start as they look to build momentum in their new Premier League journey.
