Match Report v Cavan Celtic (H) 24th Feb ’18

Monaghan United kicked off their tenth and final league match at home in Gortekeegan against Cavan Celtic. The game kicked off with the home side on the front foot as they went close early on when midfielders Josh Kelly and Jake McGeough worked the ball towards Tomas Galvin who seen his effort sail narrowly wide. The next effort also fell to Tomas when Jake McGeough read a poor Cavan kickout and slipped through Tomas who seen his effort go wide once again. Monaghan were truly dominating in the early stages and were desperate for an opening goal, Josh Kelly and Tomas Galvin linked up well out the left hand side and tied up Jake McGeough whos effort went close. Monaghan were getting closer and nearly broke the deadlock when forward Eoin O’Hanlon broke down the left into the box, he pulled the ball back finding Jake McGeough who was denied by a fine save. Monaghan found their goalscoring touch when Josh Kelly and Cian Bradley-Gillespie smartly worked a short corner before Josh set up Captain Patrick Treanor at the edge of the box, Patrick looped the ball into the air and over the goalkeepers head, 1-0 to Monaghan with the Captains first goal of the season. Cavan were barely able to get their breath back before Monaghan found their second. Fionan O’Gallachoir drove down the left wing, he found Tomas Galvin in the middle of the park, Tomas lobbed the ball over the Cavan defence finding midfield runner Jake McGeough who volleyed the ball past the Cavan goalkeeper. A fantastic goal for the home side! The famous saying “A team is at its most vulnerable when they’ve just scored” came into play when the away side found themselves back in the game as they broke down the centre of the pitch and fired into the Monaghan goals. 2-1. Monaghan, however, found their second breath and upped the tempo once again with midfielders Josh Kelly, Patrick Treanor and Jake McGeough dominating the middle of the pitch. Cavan Celtic were doing everything they could to get back into the game but were struggling to get any joy as centre backs Robin Pratt-Clarke and Aodhan McQuaid were clearing every attack that managed to come their way, and were determined that no shots were fired at the Monaghan goal. The home side again upped the tempo and soon found their third when centre back Robin Pratt-Clarke sweeped up a Cavan attack and drove down the right hand side, he found Eoin O’Hanlon who neatly slipped a through ball through the Cavan defence to Tomas Galvin who made no hesitation and smashed the ball into the back of the net off the post. The home side had nothing else in their minds but to attack! attack! attack!, and they nearly increased their lead when Eoin O’Hanlon broke into the box, the goalkeeper had his angles correct so Eoin recycled the ball back to Jake McGeough who seen his effort saved. But moments later they did increase their lead, youngster Aodhan Doyle pumped the ball down the right hand side sending Cian Bradley-Gillespie down the right, he beat the full back and sent in a dangerous cross leaving Tomas Galvin with a simple tap in at the back post. 4-1 to Monaghan after another well worked goal. Monaghans next attack Cian broke down the right once again and this time his cross found fullback Fionan O’Gallachoir who smashed a rocket of a volley, only to be denied by a fantastic save. 4-1 the scoreline at half time.

The second half kicked off as the first half finished with Monaghan dominating the early stages. The home side soon made it 5-1 when Josh Kelly and Aodhan Doyle worked the ball down the right hand side and found forward Cian Bradley-Gillespie, again he beat the defender and sent in a dangerous cross and just like the last goal, he found Tomas Galvin who fired home his hat-trick with a brilliant finish. Chances were few and far between for the away side but midway through the second half they broke through 1v1 with goalkeeper Ciaran Doyle, but their effort one goal was claimed by the Monaghan goalkeeper with a fine save. The game was nearly coming to an end but the home side showed no signs of slowing down. Eoin O’Hanlon made a mazy run down the left, he pulled the back to Patrick Treanor who smashed a shot from rang, the keeper saved the shot and then again saved the rebound from Cian Bradley-Gillespie. Monaghan nearly increased their lead when Tomas Galvin linked up with Cian Bradley-Gillespie before finding Patrick Treanor who was denied by the Cavan goalkeeper. The home side soon made it six when Patrick Treanor and Cian Bradley-Gillespie linked up down the right hand side, they reversed the ball into the centre finding Josh Kelly who slipped the ball towards Tomas Galvin who gave the goalkeeper the slip before firing home his fourth goal of the game, and his fifteenth goal of the season. And yet Monaghan still weren’t finished. Minutes before full time the ball fell to Josh Kelly who again slipped the ball through the Cavan defence, this time finding Jake McGeough who fired home his fifth goal of the season. Monaghan in seventh heaven as Josh Kelly ramped up his third assist of the game. There was still time for one more attack as Cian Bradley-Gillespie fired in a dangerous corner kick, Captain Patrick Treanor fired in a rocket of a header only to be denied on the line by a header from a Cavan defender. 7-1 the final scoreline as Monaghan ramped up one of the performances of the season.

There was a serious amount of players in the running for the award but Our Man of The Match award goes to Tomas Galvin who out in a fantastic display upfront for Monaghan capping a fine performance with 4 goals and an assist.

Monaghan’s United U-14’s Next Fixture to be Announced

Man of The Match: Tomas Galvin

Goals: Patrick Treanor, Tomas Galvin (4), Jake McGeough (2)

Team: Ciaran Doyle, Aodhan Doyle, Robin Pratt-Clarke, Aodhan McQuaid, Fionan O’Gallachoir, Patrick Treanor (C), Jake McGeough, Tomas Galvin, Josh Kelly, Eoin O’Hanlon, Cian Bradley-Gillespie

Managers: Conor Finnegan, Brian Finnegan

Match Report v Cootehill Harps (A) 17th Feb ’18

Monaghan United U-14s kicked off their ninth league game of the season away to a strong Cootehill Harps side.  The away side started the stronger of the two when forward Cian Bradley-Gillespie found the ball out wide, he played a one-two with Tomas Galvin before seeing his effort sail over the bar.  The tide soon turned as Cootehill started to battle for every ball, they were now dominating the game but couldn’t get in behind a defence of Blake Lees, Robin Pratt-Clarke, Aodhan McQuaid and Fionan O’Gallachoir.  Monaghan were struggling to get a foothold on the game but against the run of play they managed to take the lead.  Centre back Robin Pratt-Clarke fired in a deep freekick into the box and midfielder Tomas Galvin smashed the ball into the top corner of the net with a left footed volley.  A fantastic opening goal.  However, Cootehill attacked in numbers straight from the kick off and found themselves with a free kick just outside the penalty area.  Their midfielder came up and unleashed an unstoppable freekick into Monaghans net.  1-1 and game on.  Cootehill were again looking the better of the two sides and near went infront when they fired in a shot from long range, but goalkeeper Ciaran Doyle was on hand with a fine save.  Monaghan were now set up on the counter attack and went close to taken the lead when Fionan O’Gallachoir and Eoin O’Hanlon worked the ball to midfielder Josh Kelly who just struck wide from range.  Monaghan were now taking the upper hand with midfielders Patrick Treanor, Cian Brennan and Josh Kelly now taking a stronghold on the game.  Minutes before half time Monaghan went infront.  Again Robin Pratt-Clarke fired a long ball forward, Fionnan O’Braonian got the ball inside the box and tied up midfielder Cian Brennan who smashed the ball into the back of the net. 2-1 to Monaghan at half time.

Monaghan kicked off the second half looking to increase their lead as midfielder Cian Brennan went close with a long range free kick.  Cootehill upped the game and were starting to play some impressive football with Monaghan seeming to be second to every ball.  The away side were pegged back and had to opt for a counter attacking strategy as Cian Brennan broke forward down the right hand side, he found Fionnan O’Braonian who sent in a fantastic cross but no Monaghan player was able to get onto the end of it, in what was a great goalscoring chance.  From here on in the game was pretty much one sided as Cootehill grew in strength.  Their winger broke forward and unleashed an effort from wide which was going into the net only for a finger tip save from goalkeeper Ciaran Doyle.  Luck was not on Monaghans side however as Cootehill scored from the resulting corner kick.  Monaghan were now throwing everyone forward in search of a winner an near found one when Cian Brennan slipped the ball out wide to Eoin O’Hanlon, he found Tomas Galvin with the cross but Tomas’ effort sailed narrowly over the bar.  In the dying moments, Cootehill capitalised on Monaghans all out attack and broke forward themselves, firing in a goal sealing an impressive 3-2 victory as Monaghan slipped to their second league defeat of the season.

Our Man of The Match award goes to centre back Robin Pratt-Clarke who put in an impressive performance at the heart of the Monaghan back line, while also being heavily involved in both Monaghans goals.

Next Saturday (24th February) Monaghan United U-14’s host Cavan Celtic at home in Gortekeegan in the CMUL League. The club & management would like to ask all the parents and family members to come out and support the team.

Monaghan United U-14s management and players would also like to thank defender Cian Brennan for his three years with the team and we would like to wish him all the best in the future as he joins the Monaghan United Cavan FP under 15 Airtricity squad.

Man of The Match: Robin Pratt-Clarke

Goals: Tomas Galvin, Cian Brennan

Team: Ciaran Doyle, Blake Lees, Robin Pratt-Clarke, Aodhan McQuaid, Cian Brennan, Fionan O’Gallachoir, Patrick Treanor (C), Tomas Galvin, Josh Kelly, Eoin O’Hanlon, Fionnan O’Braonian, Cian Bradley-Gillespie

Managers: Conor Finnegan, Brian Finnegan

Match Report v Cavan Shamrocks (A) 27th Jan ’18

Monaghan United U-14s kicked off their eighth league game of the season away to a strong Cavan Shamrocks side. It was the away side who started the strongest of the two when they tested goalkeeper Ciaran Doyle in the opening stages, but the Monaghan goalkeeper was on hand to deny them with a strong save. The game soon reserved on its head as Monaghan quickly upped their tempo with a midfield of Patrick Treanor, Cian Brennan and Fionnan O’Braonian starting to dominate possession. It was Monaghans first game without forward Lewis Brady who unfortunately will miss the rest of the season due to injury, but the away side were happy to welcome back last seasons top scorer Dylan O’Reilly back into the starting lineup. And it didnt take long before he had an influence on the game as he latched onto a Cian Brennan through ball, his shot stung the hands of the goalkeeper before his strike partner Cian Bradley-Gillespie followed up with a neat finish into the back of the net. 1-0 to the visitors. A front three of Tomas Galvin, Dylan O’Reilly and Cian Bradley-Gillespie were proving a real pain for the Cavan defence as they stretched them on numerous occasions and the three combined once again for Monaghans second. Dylan received the ball and drove from deep down the centre of the pitch, he slid the ball out wide to Tomas Galvin who cut back and sent in a low cross into the box, finding Cian Bradley-Gillespie, who fired the ball into the back of the net for his second goal of the day. Midway through the first half Monaghan were truely dominating the game as Cavan struggled to get in behind a defence of Blake Lees, Robin Pratt-Clarke, Fionan O’Gallachoir and new signing Aodhan McQuaid. In fact at times the home side were struggling to get the ball outside their own half as forward Cian Bradley-Gillespie chased down a backpass to the Cavan goalkeeper, the resulting keeper kick fell to Tomas Galvin who struck from range only to see his effort sail closely over the bar. As Monaghan defended a corner kick, Tomas Galvin cleared the ball, sending Cian Bradley-Gillespie through on goal only this time the Cavan goalkeeper was equal to the resulting shot. The away side kept on pressing and pressing for more goals and near found a third when new signing Aodhan McQuaid headed a Cian Bradley-Gillepsie corner only to see his header cleared off the line. United were desperate to extend their lead, and nearly done so when midfielder Josh Kelly received the ball out wide, his cross found forward Dylan O’Reilly who shot first time, but as the ball was destined for the back of the net the Cavan goalkeeper somehow managed to tap the ball over the crossbar for a corner kick. Dylan was denied once again as he headed in the resulting corner kick only to see his effort just about saved as half the ball crossed the goal line, another great save from the Cavan goalkeeper. 2-0 the halftime scoreline as Monaghan put in a dominating performance.

The second half kicked off at a much lower tempo than the first, but Monaghan still looked the stronger of the two teams as Patrick Treanor, Cian Brennan and Josh Kelly now had a strong hold on the game. Things were dampened for the away side when forward Dylan O’Reilly was taken off through injury, the team and management would like to wish him well and hope for a speedy recovery.  The home side were doing everything in their power to try and find a breakthrough, but Captain Patrick Treanor was putting in a defensive exhibition in midfield and was cleaning up anything that came his way. The tempo of the game started to pick up as Monaghan front three of Eoin O’Hanlon, Fionnan O’Braonian and Tomas Galvin were putting huge pressure on the Cavan defence barely giving them time to breath. Their pressure paid off when Tomas Galvin forced a mistake from the Shamrocks goalkeeper and laid the ball off to Josh Kelly who made no mistake in firing the ball into the back of the Cavan net. 3-0 to the visitors. Monaghan were not done just yet, Josh Kelly was again on hand as he read a kickout from the Cavan goalkeeper, he took the ball out of the air and laid it off to midfielder Fionnan O’Braonian who, when everyone thought he would pass it out to the right, reversed the ball to the left finding Cian Bradley-Gillespie in acres of space, allowing him to round off his hat-trick with a bottom corner finish. A wonderful piece of play from the three Monaghan men. Monaghan were unable to keep a clean sheet as the final attack of the game resulted in a Shamrocks goal, but it was the away side who left the pitch the happier after a strong team performance rounded off with some well worked team goals.

Our Man of The Match award goes to forward Cian Bradley-Gillespie, as he put in a fantastic performance, stretching the Cavan defence on a number of occasions and capping off his fine performance with 3 well taken goals.

Next Saturday (3rd February) Monaghan United U-14’s travel to Cavan Astro to play Cavan Celtic in the CMUL Cup. The club & management would like to ask all the parents and family members to come out and support the team.

Man of The Match: Cian Bradley-Gillespie

Goals: Cian Bradley-Gillespie, Josh Kelly

Team: Ciaran Doyle, Blake Lees, Robin Pratt-Clarke, Aodhan McQuaid, Cian Brennan, Fionan O’Gallachoir, Patrick Treanor (C), Tomas Galvin, Josh Kelly, Eoin O’Hanlon, Fionnan O’Braonian, Cian Bradley-Gillespie, Dylan O’Reilly

Managers: Conor Finnegan, Brian Finnegan

Match Report v Carrick Rovers (H) 6th Jan ’18

In their seventh league match of season, Monaghan United U-14’s kicked off a top of the table clash with Carrick Rovers at home in Gortekeegan.  The game kicked off at a high tempo as both teams looked to find that vital opening goal.  But it was the away side who kicked off the stronger of the teams and they soon found themselves at an advantages when they broke through the Monaghan defence and fired themselves into the lead. Carrick were on a high and soon near doubled their lead as they agin broke through 1v1 with the Monaghan goalkeeper, only this time Ciaran Doyle stood tall to save the resulting shot. Monaghans defence was being put under a serious amount of pressure, with defenders Blake Lees, Robin Pratt-Clarke, Cian Brennan & Fionan O’Gallachoir being pushed to their limits, but Monaghans defence denied Carrick on a number of occasions. The home team began to fight back as midfielders Josh Kelly, Patrick Treanor and Tomas Galvin dug deep to keep possession.  Josh Kelly broke forward from deep and slipped the ball to midfielder Tomas Galvin who fired in a thunderous strike, forcing a fine save from the Carrick goalkeeper. A front three of Eoin O’Hanlon, Cian Bradley-Gillespie and Lewis Brady were doing all they could to stretch and get in behind the away sides defence, they managed to get in a number of times but a stubborn Carrick defence were defending very strongly and Monaghan were finding efforts on goal limited. Carrick were determined not to let Monaghan back into the game and soon found themselves testing the Monaghan goalkeeper once again, but again Ciaran Doyle saved.  The game was becoming an entertaining 50/50 battle as midfielder Jake McGeough drove from midfield and played through forward Lewis Brady, his shot nearly struck the back of the net, only for a fine save from the Carrick goalkeeper who tipped the ball over the bar.  Monaghan were proud to reintroduce forward Dylan O’Reilly back onto the field as he made his first appearance of the season after a long injury layoff.  It didn’t take long before he became a menace to Carrick as he stretched the Carrick defence, allowing Lewis Brady to break forward 1v1 with the goalkeeper, he opted to round the goalkeeper before seeing his effort hit the side netting.

The second half kicked off with Monaghan looking the stronger team as they looked to find an equalising goal.  They found it moments before half time when forward Dylan O’Reilly broke through the Carrick defence at pace, his shot seemed to have crossed the goal line but a defender cleared the ball up into the air, Dylan never gave up and struck the rebounding clearance into the back of the net with a fantastic overhead kick. 1-1 and game on.  The old saying “A team is most vulnerable when they have just scored?” came into play as Carrick barely gave Monaghan room to breath before they fired themselves back infront again.  The home side had it all to do once again and near found an equaliser when Dylan O’Reilly broke through 1v1 with the goalkeeper, but was denied by a strong save.  Carrick where given a chance to increase their lead when they where correctly awarded a penalty kick, in which they didn’t hesitate to smash into the back of the net.  The next chance of the game fell again to the away side as they continued to press, they broke through the Monaghan defence, but goalkeeper Ciaran Doyle was on hand to save the 1v1 chance.  United where now throwing everything they had to find away back into the game.  Defender Robin Pratt-Clarke fired in a long free kick which Tomas Galvin latched onto the end of, but his effort on goal was denied by another fine save.  But as Monaghan attacked, Carrick didn’t sit back and in a matter of minutes they scored two fine goals, increasing their advantage to 5 goals to 1.  The final chance of the game fell to the home side as they tried to salvage anything from the game when Fionnan O’Braonian broke through the Carrick defence on the right hand side, but the away sides goalkeeper was putting in a fine display and made another impressive save.  5-1 the final scoreline as Monaghan fell to their first league defeat of the season after a very impressive Carrick Rovers performance.

Our Man of The Match award goes to forward Dylan O’Reilly, who after a long injury layoff, came back with a sharp performance, rounding off his comeback with a brilliant overhead goal.

Monaghan’s United U-14’s Next Fixture to be Announced

Man of The Match: Dylan O’Reilly

Goals: Dylan O’Reilly

Team: Ciaran Doyle, Blake Lees, Robin Pratt-Clarke, Cian Brennan, Fionan O’Gallachoir, Patrick Treanor (C), Tomas Galvin, Josh Kelly, Jake McGeough, Eoin O’Hanlon, Fionnan O’Braonian, Lewis Brady, Cian Bradley-Gillespie, Dylan O’Reilly

Managers: Conor Finnegan, Brian Finnegan

Match Report v Cavan Shamrocks (H) 18th Nov ’17

In their sixth league match of the season, Monaghan United U-14’s kicked off against Cavan Shamrocks in Gortekeegan. It was the away side who looked like the inform team as Shamrocks were putting pressure on Monaghan right from the word go. As they were dominating possession, their tidy football was unable to break through a strong defence of Blake Lees, Robin Pratt-Clarke, Cian Brennan and Fionan O’Gallachoir. Monaghans first chance of the game came when forward Lewis Brady broke behind the Shamrocks defence down the right, he pulled the ball back to find midfielder Jake McGeough who fired narrowly wide from long range. Lewis was involved in Uniteds next chance as Captain Patrick Treanor picked up the ball and slipped through Lewis who was denied by the goalkeeper. The game was end to end but both teams were failing to find the deadlock as Shamrocks broke down the left before firing on goalkeeper Ciaran Doyle who continued his fine form with a strong save. Monaghan were sitting back and trying to use the space in behind to break forward at pace, Midfielder Tomas Galvin found the ball out wide and swung in a dangerous cross towards Lewis Brady who again was denied. Unlucky from the striker. Shamrocks were attacking a lot down the left hand side but were failing to gain any ground behind Robin Pratt-Clarke and Blake Lees as Blake won the ball and drove down the right wing. He slipped the ball forward to Fionnan O’Braonian, Fionnan beat the full back before firing in a dangerous cross into the box, it found fellow winger Cian Bradley-Gillespie who’s header was gathered by Shamrocks goalkeeper. A wonderful counter attack. The last chance of the game came when Cian Bradley-Gillespie fired in a deep corner, the ball fell to centre half Cian Brennan who smashed the ball over. 0-0 the halftime scoreline.

Monaghan started off the second half like wildfire as straight away substitute Eoin O’Hanlon beat two players down the middle before finding Tomas Galvin who struck narrowly wide. United’s tempo had hugely increased and it didn’t take long before the two combined once again as Eoin sent a long ball in behind the Shamrocks defence, Tomas Galvin picked up the ball and pulled it back to Lewis Brady, who showed that persistence pays off, and he rattled the back of the Shamrocks net. 1-0 to Monaghan. Monaghan soon nearly found a second when Cian Brennan won the ball and broke out from the defence, he found Lewis wise who sent in a dangerous cross but the Shamrocks goalkeeper sprinted out and claimed the ball before Cian Bradley-Gillespie could pull the trigger. Minutes later Josh Kelly played a long ball to Lewis Brady, this time he found Cian Bradley-Gillespie who’s shot was denied again by the Cavan keeper. Lewis was provider once again as he pulled the ball back to Tomas Galvin who’s shot sailed just over the bar. Monaghan were desperate for a second goal as they kept pressing and pressing when Josh Kelly broke down the left, he found Eoin O’Hanlon who fired wide. Cian Bradley-Gillespie was given 100% effort the hole match and he finally got what he deserved he made a diagonal run across the pitch, his run was found by a long ball from Cian Brennan, and he slipped the ball past the Shamrocks keeper for Monaghans well deserved second. In the dying moments of the game Captain Patrick Treanor won the ball and drove forward from deep. He was soon brought down for a free kick. Up stepped centre back Cian Brennan who rocketed the resulting free kick into the top left corner of the net. A wonderstrike that would be shown for many years if it was in the Premier League, as Monaghan ran out 3-0 winners maintaining their 100% league record, going three league games without conceding a goal. Onwards and Upwards as United march on!

The were a lot of contenders for the Man of the Match award as the players put in a strong team performance but our Man of The Match award goes to centre back Cian Brennan as he capped off a rock solid defensive performance with an assist and a top corner free kick.

Next Saturday (25th November) Monaghan United U-14’s host Cavan Celtic at home in Gortekeegan. The club & management would like to ask all the parents and family members to come out and support the team.

Man of The Match: Cian Brennan

Goals: Lewis Brady, Cian Bradley-Gillespie, Cian Brennan

Team: Ciaran Doyle, Blake Lees, Robin Pratt-Clarke, Cian Brennan, Fionan O’Gallachoir, Patrick Treanor (C),  Jake McGeough, Tomas Galvin, Josh Kelly, Eoin O’Hanlon, Fionnan O’Braonian, Lewis Brady, Cian Bradley-Gillespie

Managers: Conor Finnegan, Brian Finnegan

Match Report v Monaghan Town (A) 12th Nov ’17

In their fifth league match of the season, Monaghan United U-14’s kicked off against local rivals Monaghan Town in Gortekeegan. The game kicked off with the home team gaining the early possession quickly putting a defence of Blake Lees, Robin Pratt-Clarke, Cian Brennan and Fionan O’Gallachoir under pressure but they were struggling to get in behind the United defence as the away side defended very well under pressure. Monaghan Town were working the ball a lot down the left but a United right flank of Blake Lees and Fionnan O’Braonian were putting defensive a lot of pressure on the Town wingers, and Robin Pratt-Clarke cleared up any loose balls to clear any danger. The first chance of the game came when midfielder Jake McGeough won the ball from a Town kickout, he switched the play and found Tomas Galvin, Tomas slipped a defence splitting pass through to Cian Bradley-Gillespie who drew a fine save from the Monaghan Town goalkeeper. The game was a 50/50 battle and the away side were struggling to find any space in behind the Monaghan Town defence and this resulted in shooting from range as Jake McGeough won the ball and laid it off to Captain Patrick Treanor who unleashed Monaghan’s next effort on goal from outside the box, which just flew wide of the post. 0-0 the halftime scoreline as chances were few and far between.

The second half kicked off with Monaghan United starting to dominate, but the first chance fell to Monaghan Town when their winger broke through the United defence but goalkeeper Ciaran Doyle was quick off his line and pulled off a wonderful safe as the winger attempted to lob him. Chances were still few and far between but the left back Fionan O’Gallachoir decided to take matters into his own hands when he dribbled past two Town defenders before firing a cross into the Town box, his namesake Fionnan O’Braonian made a late run to the back post and volleyed home the first goal of the game. 1-0 to Monaghan United. The goal livened the game up and soon the tempo was raised. Monaghan Town broke down the right hand side and fired a dangerous ball into the box but as the ball was scrambled about, Robin Pratt-Clarke blocked the ball twice before clearing his lines. United retaliated and went straight up the pitch, Jake McGeough slipped the ball into Fionnan O’Braonian who was denied by a fine save. The next chance of the game also fell to Fionnan as he received a ball from Tomas Galvin, but was also denied a second goal. Things got nervy as Monaghan Town were correctly awarded a penalty kick but goalkeeper Ciaran Doyle was determined to keep a clean sheet as he save the spot kick before clearing the ball from danger. United were buzzing as the team ran to praise their goalkeeper. United were now more up for the game and moments later it showed when Cian Bradley-Gillespie fired in a dangerous corner kick, a defender attempted to clear the ball but the ball was directed towards centre back Cian Brennan who rose to head the ball into the roof of the net. 2-0 to Monaghan United. United nearly found a third with their next attack as Jake McGeough found Tomas Galvin who was denied by a strong save. Monaghans 5 man midfield were working very hard to force Monaghan Town from advancing and this proved vital when Captain Patrick Treanor won the ball on the right, he directed the ball into the centre of the pitch, finding Jake McGeough who neatly passed the ball from outside the box into the bottom corner of the net. A wonderful tidy strike from the midfielder as Monaghan Untied went 3-0 up. As the sun was setting and the game was coming to an end, Monaghan United were finding their second wind and kept pushing and pushing for more goals. Cian Bradley-Gillespie drilled in a deep cross finding forward Lewis Brady whos effort sailed narrowly wide. With the game coming to close Monaghan decided to swap Lewis Brady wide to utilise his pace and pushed Tomas Galvin into a forward role and in the last chance of the game the two combined when Lewis Burst down the right hand side, his cross found Tomas who tapped home Monaghan United fourth goal of the game. And thats how it ended as Monaghan United made it 5 league wins from 5 with a strong second half performance which capped a 4-0 victory for the away side.

The were a lot of contenders for the Man of the Match award as the players put in a strong team performance but our Man of The Match award goes to centre back Robin Pratt-Clarke as he put in a very strong defensive performance which was vital to the away side keeping a clean sheet.

Next Saturday (18th November) Monaghan United U-14’s host Cavan Shamrocks at home in Gortekeegan. The club & management would like to ask all the parents and family members to come out and support the team.

Man of The Match: Robin Pratt-Clarke

Goals: Fionnan O’Braonian, Cian Brennan, Jake McGeough, Tomas Galvin

Team: Ciaran Doyle, Blake Lees, Robin Pratt-Clarke, Cian Brennan, Fionan O’Gallachoir, Patrick Treanor (C),  Jake McGeough, Tomas Galvin, Fionnan O’Braonian, Lewis Brady, Cian Bradley-Gillespie

Managers: Conor Finnegan, Brian Finnegan

Match Report v Monaghan Town (H) 21st Oct ’17

In their fourth league match of the season, Monaghan United U-14’s kicked off against local rivals Monaghan Town, at home in Gortekeegan. The away side had started the hungrier of the two as a midfield of Fionnan O’Braonian, Patrick Treanor and Josh Kelly were worked very hard and pushed very deep in the opening few minutes, but as the game grew, United midfield grew with it as they began to pick up the pace and fight for possession.  United’s first chance of the game when a front two of Cian Bradley-Gillespie and Lewis Brady worked the ball amongst them before sending the ball left to midfielder Tomas Galvin, the midfielder struck a ferocious shot, but to no avail as it sailed past the post.  The game was a 50/50 battle and the home side were struggling to find any space in behind the Monaghan Town defence and this resulted in shooting from range as Captain Patrick Treanor unleashed Monaghan’s next effort on goal from outside the box, which just flew wide of the post.  United were made to work hard to find a chance, but they near found their first goal when Cian Bradley-Gillespie dribbled through the Town defence, he found his strike partner Lewis Brady who’s shot was narrowly denied by the Town goalkeeper.  The home sides hard work finally prevailed near the end of the first half as forward Cian Bradley-Gillespie tracked back and won the ball with a nice tackle, he slipped it to Tomas Galvin who let fly from distance as his shot rocketed into the top corner of the net. 1-0 to United. In the dying moments of the first half, Monaghan Town were trying to find a quick response to going behind but Robin Pratt-Clarke, Cian Brennan, Blake Lees and Fionan O’Gallachoir were putting in a great shift in the back line to deny any advancing efforts as they were pressed deep. Chances were few and far between in the first half as both teams cancelled each other out. 1-0 to Monaghan United at half time.

The second half kicked off with Monaghan United looking to increase their lead as Josh Kelly broke forward down the left from midfield, he slipped the ball through to Lewis Brady who was narrowly denied by a great save from the Monaghan Town goalkeeper.  The next chance of the game fell to the away side as they worked the ball down the left and had an effort on goal, but goalkeeper Ciaran Doyle seen the ball wide.  Monaghan responded and started to up their game with midfielders Fionnan O’Braonian, Patrick Treanor and Josh Kelly starting to dominate in possession.  Cian Bradley-Gillespie stepped up their efforts for a second goal as he struck from range only to be denied by a save.  The home side grew in confidence and soon found their breakthrough as Tomas Galvin slipped in forward Lewis Brady who lifted the ball into the top corner of the net with a smart right footed finish.  2-0 to Monaghan United.  Monaghan never looked like they wanted to sit and defend and soon pushed for a third.  Centre back Cian Brennan floated in a deep free kick towards the back post, Fionnan O’Braonian reversed the ball back into the box and midfielder Patrick Treanor went close.  United where hungry and a midfield now featuring Eoin O’Hanlon, Jake McGeough and Tomas Galvin were working hard and standing strong, being led by Captain Patrick Treanor cancelling out Monaghan Town as they looked to find a way back into the game.  As Monaghan Town attacked, United soon broke on the counter, Tomas Galvin slipped the ball through the Town defence and onto it came Lewis Brady who passed the ball into the net.  3-0 to Monaghan United after a great counter attack.  “Attack is the best form of defence” was the motto as United welcomed back forward Dara McKenna, who looked hungrier than ever to get on the scoresheet, he dribbled past two defenders before playing in Tomas Galvin who went close.  The last chance of the game came when Tomas Galvin received the ball out on the left, he fed through Dara McKenna who found the back of the net with a great strike, only to see his goal rightly disallowed after a foul in the build-up.  It was hard fought 50/50 game but in the end Monaghan United ran out 3-0 victors after being pressed very hard by a strong Monaghan Town team.

The were a lot of contenders for the Man of the Match award as the players put in a strong team performance but our Man of The Match award goes to captain Patrick Treanor as his tireless hard work in midfield throughout the match proved vital as Monaghan United picked up a hard fought 3 points.

Next Sunday (29th October) Monaghan United U-14’s host a strong Cappry Rovers (Donegal) side in the National Cup SFAI Semi-Final. The club & management would like to ask all the parents and family members to come out and support the team.

Man of The Match: Patrick Treanor

Goals: Tomas Galvin, Lewis Brady (2)

Team: Ciaran Doyle, Blake Lees, Robin Pratt-Clarke, Cian Brennan, Fionan O’Gallachoir, Patrick Treanor (C), Josh Kelly, Tomas Galvin, Fionnan O’Braonian, Lewis Brady, Cian Bradley-Gillespie, Eoin O’Hanlon

Managers: Conor Finnegan, Brian Finnegan

Match Report v Carrick Rovers (A) 14th Oct ’17

In their third league match of the year, Monaghan United U-14’s travelled away to a strong Carrick Rovers side, the first time the teams had met since a very entertaining CMUL Shield Final last year.  Both teams came into the game evenly matched at the top of the CMUL table, and this showed as the game was kicked off at a very high pace, but it was Carrick who started the stronger of the two teams and it didnt take long before they had a chance on goal, only to be denied by a strong diving save by goalkeeper Ciaran Doyle. Monaghans first chance of the game came when Cian Bradley-Gillespie swung in a dangerous corner kick, Carrick cleared their lines but the ball fell to Captain Patrick Treanor out side the box, but his long range effort sailed narrowly past the top corner, when it looked destined for goal. It was the away side who managed to break the deadlock when midfielder Josh Kelly found himself in a wide area, he floated the ball dangerously into the box, and after forwards Cian Bradley-Gillespie and Lewis Brady were both denied, the ball fell to midfielder Tomas Galvin who fantastically volleyed the ball over the Carrick defence into the roof of the net. Carrick responded to going a goal down and Monaghan soon found themselves on the back foot as Carrick charged for an equaliser but stubborn defending from centre halves Cian Brennan and Robin Pratt-Clarke meant that Carrick were struggling to get a clear chance on goal.  The game was becoming an end-to-end battle as midfielders Eoin O’Hanlon, Patrick Treanor and Josh Kelly were forced to work very hard to provide a defensive shield a defensive shield for the Monaghan defence.  But it was on the counter attack were the away side got their next chance when Josh Kelly broke forward down the right, he sent his pass through the Carrick defence towards Tomas Galvin, who was about to rattle the net only for a sliding challenge by a Carrick defender who sent the ball out for a corner kick. Minutes before half time, however, Carrick got their break as they broke into the box and cleverly chipped the ball into the roof of the Monaghan net.  1-1 the scoreline as both teams were forced to work hard throughout and chances were kept to a minimum.

The second half kicked off with both teams battling it out for possession, though it was Carrick who was providing the early pressure but defenders Blake Lees, Robin Pratt-Clarke, Cian Brennan & Fionan O’Gallchoir continued their good run of form to deny any attacking efforts with a series of last minute tackles and Monaghan fought to clear their lines.  However, the longer the game went on the stronger the away side were starting to look as they soon broke through and Tomas Galvin went close with a left footed effort. Monaghan were now looking the stronger team as Fionnan O’Braonian, Patrick Treanor and Eoin O’Hanlon started to dominate possession in midfield, and the latter Eoin O’Hanlon nearly found himself on the scoresheet when he broke forward down the right wing, his looping effort on goal had beat the goalkeeper but soon rattled back off the post when the crowd all though it was a definite goal, the ball fell wide to Cian Bradley-Gillespie who fired it straight back in the goal mouth, but just before Eoin could fire home the rebound, the Carrick goalkeeper dived and claimed the ball from Eoin’s toes. Carrick were now the team who was set up on the counter attack, but they struggled to get in behind the Monaghan backline as centre backs Robin Pratt-Clarke and Cian Brennan seemed to pop up everywhere as time and time again they cleared any danger. Carrick nearly went close to going ahead when they sent in a deep corner kick but goalkeeper Ciaran Doyle rose above everyone and punched the ball away from danger. Midway through the second half Monaghan were now starting to put heavy pressure on the Carrick backline with forwards Lewis Brady, Cian Bradley-Gillespie and Tomas Galvin all proving to be a handful, as Carrick were forced to keep a deep defensive line.  Monaghans high tempo soon prevailed when midfielder Fionnan O’Braonian won the ball with a sliding tackle deep into his own half, he fired a looping ball down the right hand side, forward Lewis Brady chased it and swung in a cross into the dangerzone.  Cian Bradley-Gillespie took the ball out of the air and fired home past the Carrick goalkeeper.  2-1 to Monaghan! Carrick looked to respond to going behind but Monaghans defensive unit containing Blake Lees, Robin Pratt-Clarke, Cian Brennan, and Fionan O’Gallchoir, were in no mood to concede as they were equalling anything fired their way, with some fantastic defending.  Monaghans next chance came when Fionnan O’Braonian sent in a floating cross, the ball was picked up by Cian Bradley-Gillespie who went close. In the dying moments, Carrick were desperate for an equalising goal as they started to push everyone forward, they nearly found it, but were deniedon two occasions as goalkeeper Ciaran Doyle continued his recent fantastic as made two great saves.  It was a fantastic end-to-end game but in the end it was the visitors who claimed all three points with a brilliant 2-1 victory.

The were a lot of contenders for the Man of the Match award with some very strong performances in the Monaghan team but our Man of The Match award goes to Ciaran Doyle after he put in an amazing goalkeeping performance, denying Carrick on a number of occasions.

Monaghans United U-14’s Next Fixture to be Announced

Man of The Match: Ciaran Doyle

Goals: Tomas Galvin, Cian Bradley-Gillespie

Team: Ciaran Doyle, Blake Lees, Robin Pratt-Clarke, Cian Brennan, Fionan O’Gallachoir, Patrick Treanor (C), Josh Kelly, Tomas Galvin, Fionnan O’Braonian, Lewis Brady, Cian Bradley-Gillespie, Eoin O’Hanlon

Managers: Conor Finnegan, Brian Finnegan

Match Report v Cavan Celtic (A) 30th Sept ’17

In their second league match of the year, Monaghan United U-14’s travelled away to Cavan Celtic.  Monaghan continued their early season form and started the game at a high tempo. Their quick start to the match proved vital as only a few minutes into the game Monaghan were able to take the lead.  Midfielder Josh Kelly fired in a deep corner kick which was met by forward Tomas Galvin who fired home the first goal of the game.  The away sides second chance of the game also came from a Josh Kelly free kick, as he sent the ball towards the back post, Cavan cleared their lines, but the ball fell to the feet of midfielder Jake McGeough who’s effort from outside the box drew the keeper into a brilliant save as the ball seemed to hitting the top corner of the net.  Monaghans next attack came when Tomas Galvin hit an early free-kick through to forward Lewis Brady whos shot was denied by another fine save.  The Cavan Celtic goalkeeper was on hand once again when Tomas and Lewis combined again, Tomas won the ball in a left back position and fired a long ball forward towards Lewis who was once again denied when he tried to lob the goalkeeper.  The away side did however manage to increase their lead when Captain Patrick Treanor won the ball in midfield and laid it off to Jake McGeough, Jake fed the ball through to Tomas Galvin who reversed the ball from his left to his right foot, past the defender, before firing in his second goal of the game. 2-0 to Monaghan midway through the first half. Monaghan were dominating in possession and nearly found a third when Josh Kelly fired in another brilliant corner, which was flicked on by centre half Cian Brennan, it came to the back post but Tomas Galvin fired his header over the bar.  Cavan looked to respond to going behind but Monaghans defensive unit containing Blake Lees, Robin Pratt-Clarke, Cian Brennan, and Ben O’Brien, were in no mood to concede as they were equalling anything fired their way. But the home side nearly opened their account when they lined up a freekick from just outside the box, they smartly hit it low and hard, but when a goal should have been guaranteed, goalkeeper Ciaran Doyle dived low and kept the ball out with a left handed finger tip save. Cavan were fighting their way back into the match but the next goal of the game also fell to the away side as centre-half Robin Pratt-Clarke sent a long diagonal free kick through to Tomas Galvin who lobbed the goalkeeper for his third goal of the game, his second hat-trick in three games for the new Monaghan signing.  Moments later Cavan decreased Monaghans lead when they found the net minutes before half time, heading in from a corner kick.  Captain Patrick Treanor tried to restore his teams lead but seen his long range effort narrowly denied in the last attack of the half.  3-1 the scoreline at half time.

The second half kicked off with Monaghan trying to increase their lead early on when Tomas Galvin teed up forward Fionnan O’Braonain who was denied by a fine save.  Fionnan was denied once again when he dribbled into the Cavan box past two defenders only to be denied by a sliding tackle by a third defender.  Monaghan thought they had increased their lead when defender Robin Pratt-Clarke fired in a deep free kick, which was met on the volley by Jake McGeough, goal but his effort was ruled out by an offside decision.  Cavan were not down and out and they began fighting hard, dominating the possession in the middle of the park. They soon found a second moments after Monaghans goal was disallowed. Game on! Cavan were just a goal behind and were fighting hard down the right hand side to find an equaliser but defenders Cian Brennan, Robin Pratt-Clarke and Ben O’Brien denied the Cavan attackers on numerous occasions with strong defensive tackles.  Cavan were dominating the second half but the next chance fell to forward Lewis Brady, he rolled the defender before firing home, only to be denied by another offside decision.  But Monaghan grew encouragement from this and pushed to finish the game off. Ben O’Brien won the ball and played Josh Kelly down the left, his cross was met by Tomas Galvin who went close.  Josh was involved once again when he game deep, he dribbled through the midfield and found Lewis Brady who smartly tipped the ball to Tomas Galvin who again went close.  Monaghan kept pushing and pushing and were eventually awarded when Josh Kelly fired in a corner in the dying moments which was met by  the head of Lewis Brady who fired the ball into the roof of the net, his first goal of the season in his first game back. 4-2 to Monaghan. Cavan responded and soon found themselves with a free-kick just outside the area, the resulting shot was deflected inside the box, sailing towards goal, but goalkeeper Ciaran Doyle managed to reverse his body and block a goal with a world class save, the ball bounced on the line before Cian Brennan cleared his lines. The game ended on a sour note when forward Fionnan O’Braonain was taken down just outside the area and had to be carried off with an ankle injury, the team and management would like to wish him all the best and a speedy recovery. After a heated match, Monaghan eventually ran out 4-2 winners after an impressive performance all around the pitch.

The were a lot of contenders for the Man of the Match award with some very strong performances in the Monaghan team but our Man of The Match award goes to forward Tomas Galvin who led by example from the frontline, his linkup play and goals were the clinical difference between the two sides.

Next Saturday (7th October) Monaghan United U-14’s travel away to Donegal to face a very strong Milford side in huge match  in the National Cup.  The club & management would like to ask all the parents and family members to come out and support the team.

Man of The Match:  Tomas Galvin

Goals: Tomas Galvin (3), Lewis Brady

Team: Ciaran Doyle, Blake Lees, Robin Pratt-Clarke, Cian Brennan, Ben O’Brien, Patrick Treanor (C), Josh Kelly, Jake McGeough, Tomas Galvin, Fionnan O’Braonain, Lewis Brady

Managers: Conor Finnegan, Brian Finnegan

Match Report v Cootehill Harps (H) 23rd Sept ’17

Monaghan United U-14’s kicked off their 2017/18 League campaign with a vital 5-2 win against a strong Cootehill Harps side, at home in Gortekeegan.  Due to other commitments, Monaghan were forced to start the game off with only 10 players but this didn’t dampen the confidence of the home side as they started the match off on the front foot, dominating possession early on.  Their high tempo start to the match proved vital as only a few minutes into the game Monaghan were able to take the lead.  Blake Lees bursted forward from wing back to send a cross into the box, midfielder Jake McGeough was on the receiving end but seen his volley sail out the the left hand side.  Forward Tomas Galvin picked up the ball and sent it back into the box but this time their was no denying Jake McGeough as he volleyed into the back of the net. 1-0 to Monaghan.  The next attempt also fell  to the home side when midfielder Jake McGeough slipped a through ball to forward Tomas Galvin only to see his effort narrowly denied.  Monaghan were down to 10 men but were showing an amazing team spirit as every player was working hard for their teammates as they battled for possession.  They soon doubled their lead when Tomas Galvin received the ball out wide, he then found midfielder Jake McGeough who burst forward to find his second goal of the game with a tidy finish.  Cootehill started to pick up the pace as they looked to show a response, but a strong defence Blake Lees, Robin Pratt-Clarke, Cian Brennan and Thomas Keenan were proving a nuisance as they cleared their lines on a number of occasions with some impressive defending.  The home side were pushing to increase their lead when forward Fionnan O’Braonain came deep and sent a long through ball to Tomas Galvin whos effort sailed narrowly wide.  Cootehill soon found their response when their midfielder broke forward and fired a long looping shot into the top of the net, 2-1 and game on. Cootehill were buzzing but Monaghan new they had to up their game to a new level to deny them.  Midfielder Jake McGeough found the ball wide, his cross went deep and was met by an volley by forward Tomas Galvin which sailed wide. Monaghan were soon boosted by the arrival of forward Cian Bradley-Gillespie who seconds after stepping onto the pitch, nearly marked his introduction with a goal when he broke down the left and seen his effort denied. Monaghan back to 11 men and were pushing forward with some great football. Defender Blake Lees and Midfielder Josh Kelly where working well together down the right had side, they worked the ball to Captain Patrick Treanor, his cross was met by an overhead kick by Tomas Galvin, which flew narrowly past the post. The home sides high pressure game was proving vital and Fionnan O’Braonain & Cian Bradley-Gillespie fought hard to win the ball back in the oppositions area before the later was tackled from behind.  Penalty to Monaghan who looked to increase their lead.  Up stepped Cian Bradley-Gillespie who fired home increasing Monaghans lead to 3-1, a well deserved goal for the forward.  Moments left on the clock for the first half, and the home side believed their was still plenty of time. Captain Patrick Treanor won the ball and sent through forward Fionnan O’Braonain who lobbed the ball over the Cootehill goalkeeper into the roof of the net.  4-1 to Monaghan at half time, a hugely impressive scoreline after starting the game a man down.

Monaghan were able to keep their tempo at a high pace as they kicked off the second half. Midfielder Josh Kelly fed the ball through the Cian Bradley-Gillespie who seen his effort fired wide.  Cootehill looked to respond and find a way back into the game, they were finally able to break through the Monaghan defence, one on one with the goalkeeper, but Ciaran Doyle had other ideas as he denied the striker with a fine foot save, when a goal looked guaranteed. Monaghans legs were starting to tire but their spirits were growing and growing as they continued to work for each other, this was highlighted when the home side found their fifth goal of the day. Tomas Galvin slipped the ball through to Fionnan O’Braonain, a Cootehill defender was able to read it well and won the ball, but Fionnan never gave up and pressed and pressed until he won the ball back inside the oppositions box and slipped the goal past the advancing keeper.  His second goal of the game for the new Monaghan signing.  Moments later Cootehill responded and were able to find a second as when Monaghan failed to clear a corner kick, a Cootehill midfielder rocketed the ball into the top corner from just outside the box. Cootehill were buzzing after a second goal and they tried to find a third time and time again as they worked the ball down the right hand side of the pitch, but defenders Robin Pratt-Clarke, Cian Brennan & Thomas Keenan were in no mood to let them back into the game as on each occasion they defended fantastically, clearing any danger that came their way.  The next chance the game came when midfielder Patrick Treanor won the ball, he found Jake McGeough who slipped the ball to Fionnan O’Braonain who was narrowly denied.  Monaghan looked for a sixth as front three Tomas Galvin, Fionnan O’Braonain & Cian Bradley-Gillespie all went close with their respective efforts late on.  5-2 the final score as Monaghan put in a strong offensive and defensive shift for their team, showing a great team spirit throughout.

The were a lot of contenders for the Man of the Match award with some very strong performances in the Monaghan team but our Man of The Match award goes to Fionnan O’Braonain who worked tirelessly throughout the match, capping off his fine performance with two well worked goals.

Monaghans United U-14’s Next Fixture to be Announced

Man of The Match:  Fionnan O’Braonain

Goals: Jake McGeough (2), Cian Bradley-Gillespie, Fionan O’Braonain (2)

Team: Ciaran Doyle, Blake Lees, Robin Pratt-Clarke, Cian Brennan, Patrick Treanor (C), Thomas Keenan, Josh Kelly, Jake McGeough, Tomas Galvin, Fionnan O’Braonain, Cian Bradley-Gillespie

Managers: Conor Finnegan, Brian Finnegan