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 Milford United (A) 7th Oct ’17

In their first game of the National Cup, Monaghan United U-14s travelled up to Donegal to face a very strong Milford United side.  Both teams came with high reputations but it was the away side who started the strongest, with Cian Bradley-Gillespie, Lewis Brady and Fionnan O’Braonain stretching the Milford defense in the early stages.  Monaghan were rewarded for their early pressure when midfielder Jake McGeough won the ball in midfield and worked it to midfielder Tomas Galvin.  Tomas sent through forward Lewis Brady who fired home the first goal of the game.  1-0 to the visitors after an impressive start.  But even though Monaghan started stronger, the Donegal side retaliated as they began dominating alot of the game in the middle of the field.  Their domination was rewarded when they soon found themselves level after a fine strike.  1-1 midway through the first half.  Things went from bad to worse just after the goal, as Monaghan were forced into a substitution when midfielder Jake McGeough was forced off through injury. The team and management would like to wish him all the best and a speedy recovery.  Milford were pushing on with confidence after scoring their equaliser and Monaghans defence were 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 stood tall to deny Milford on a number of occasions.  Milfords continued dominance forced Monaghan into a tactical change as Fionnan O’Braonian was asked to drop deeper into midfield.  This proved an important decision as Monaghans midfield had an extra man in the middle of the park to battle for possession as midfielders Patrick Treanor, Josh Kelly, Tomas Galvin now along with Fionnan O’Braonian were beginning to dominate.  Monaghans last chance of the half fell to Tomas Galvin as he was narrowly denied with a direct free-kick.  1-1 the scoreline at half time.

The second half kicked off with both teams battling for the next goal as each side cancelled each other out.  Monaghan were starting to grow in confidences as Lewis Brady, Cian Bradley-Gillespie and Tomas Galvin all went close with efforts. Monaghans midfield were working very hard as Captain Patrick Treanor, along with Josh Kelly & Fionnan O’Braonian were forced to play more defensively than they are use to, but they were able to stand up to the task in hand.  It was the away side who managed to get the next goal when Tomas Galvin broke forward, his cross found forward Lewis Brady who volleyed home his second of the game. Monaghan confidence was lifted as Captain Patrick Treanor roared his team on from the middle of the pitch as Monaghan started to believe in themselves.  The away side were back playing their normal footballing game and nearly found a third when Tomas Galvin headed down for Lewis Brady who fired just narrowly wide.  The Donegal side were forced to work hard for an equaliser but defenders Robin Pratt-Clarke and Cian Brennan along with midfielder Patrick Treanor were playing out of their skin to deny the Milford attack.  Milford were forced to shoot from range as they went close from a direct free kick, but goalkeeper Ciaran Doyle was in no mood to let them back into the game as he pulled off a top corner world class save.  Monaghan were being pegged back defensively as the home side near found their equaliser only for last minute defending by Blake Lees as he cleared the ball off the Monaghan line before sprinting out and blocking the next shot fired in.  Milford were working hard but Monaghan used this to their advantage as Monaghan soon broke on the counter attack, Lewis Brady ran down the right hand side, he swung in a cross to substitute Eoin O’Hanlon, who took the ball on his chest before firing home as Monaghan celebrated their third.  A front three of Eoin O’Hanlon, Tomas Galvin and Lewis Brady were proving to be a nuisance in the Milford defence as they were causing alot of problems on the counter attack as they continued to stretch the Milford defence late on.  In the final attack of the game the latter two combined once again as Tomas fired a long ball through to Lewis Brady who lobbed the goalkeeper sending his ball into the top corner, to round off a fine hattrick as Monaghan ran out 4-1 winners after a very hard fought match in Donegal.

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 Lewis Brady, after he put in a very hard working shift upfront, capping off his fine performance with 3 goals and an assist.

Next Saturday (14th October) Monaghan United U-14’s travel away to a strong Carrickmacross side, their first meeting since a very entertaining CMUL Shield Final last year. The club & management would like to ask all the parents and family members to come out and support the team.

Man of The Match:  Lewis Brady

Goals: Lewis Brady (3), Eoin O’Hanlon

Team: Ciaran Doyle, Blake Lees, Robin Pratt-Clarke, Cian Brennan, Fionan O’Gallachoir, Patrick Treanor (C), Josh Kelly, Jake McGeough, 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

Match Report v Clones Town (H) 11th Sept ’17

In their second friendly of the season, Monaghan United U-14’s kicked off in Goretkeegan against local side Clones Town.  The game started off at a very high pace when midfielder Jake McGeough received the ball out wide, his cross found forward Eoin O’Hanlon who fired home, only to see his goal disallowed for offside. Minutes later Monaghan went close once again when midfielder Tomas Galvin crossed for forward Eoin O’Hanlon, but his header was denied by a fine save. Monaghan were looking hungry when Jake McGeough teed up Captain Patrick Treanor who went close with a long range effort.  Jake McGeough had started the game at a very high pace and again he soon found forward Dara McKenna with a through ball, Dara took the ball in his stride but his effort was forced wide by pressure from the Clones defence.  The home side kept the high pace going and soon found a breakthrough when new signing Tomas Galvin, robbed a Clones defender, he used his skill and trickery to turn the defender before slotting home his first goal in a Monaghan jersey.  Clones 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 as chances came few and far between for the home side as Monaghan defended well. Moments later Monaghan found their second when Jake McGeough found Tomas Galvin who fired a long range shot past the Clones goalkeeper.  2-0 to the home side.  Their next chance came when Dara McKenna nodded down to forward Fionnan O’Braonain whos shot went narrowly close.  The new look Monaghan side were dominating in possession and looked hungry to add to their two early goals when midfielder Thomas Keenan fed a ball wide to Jake McGeough, Jake used his initiative and tried to lob an unexpectant goalkeeper only to see his effort sail over the bar.  Monaghan thought they had increased their lead when Jake McGeough slide a ball through to Dara McKenna who fired home, only to see another goal disallowed by an offside decision.  Fionnan O’Braonain decided to drift inside to receive more of the ball, his movement proved a nuisance in the Clones defence when he was tackled just outside the box. Up stepped new signing Tomas Galvin who sailed his freekick into the top corner of the net.  3-0 to Monaghan and a debut hat-trick for the new Monaghan player. On the day Jake McGeough seemed to be setting up everyone for a strike on goal when he played the ball to Thomas Keenan, his long shot was denied by an impressive save from the Clones goalkeeper.  Jake then turned from provider to goalscoring when wingback Blake Lees bombed forward and swung in a deep cross, Jake rose to head into the back of the net only to see Monaghan denied for a third time by a disallowed offside goal.  3-0 the scoreline at halftime as the home side impressed.

The second half continued on with Monaghan dominating early on.  Forward Eoin O’Hanlon took the ball out of the air with a great touch, his strike lobbed over the goalkeeper from range just to see his strike sail over the bar. In footballing terms Monaghan were playing some of the best football this team has produced and near found a fourth when Jake McGeough fired wide.  Monaghans fourth did come moments later when Josh Kelly linked up well down the left wing before finding Eoin O’Hanlon whos strike curled into the bottom right hand corner of the net.  4-0 to Monaghan.  Even though Monaghan were playing some great football they were able to up their tempo, led by Captain Patrick Treanor in the heart of their midfield, who fed the ball through to Dara McKenna whos shot fired wide.  Patrick Treanor was leading the team from deep when he slide in and won the ball before slipping a defence splitting pass wide to Fionnan O’Braonain, Fionnan took a touch and when everyone expected a cross, Fionnan had other ideas as he looped a strike straight into the top corner from wide.  5-0 to Monaghan who were buzzing. Fionnan O’Braonain found the ball once again, he sent Dara McKenna through with a long ball, Dara then fired home his 3rd goal in two games, and Monaghans sixth of the night.  Monaghan kept pushing on and on as Eoin O’Hanlon, Josh Kelly & Tomas Galvin all went close with efforts on goal.  The home side found themselves unlucky once again as Dara McKenna teed up Eoin O’Hanlon, who seen his second goal of the night disallowed by an offside call.  Monaghans last chance of the game came when Fionan O’Gallachoir broke forward down the left, he linked up well with Josh Kelly before the latter seen his effort fired narrowly wide.  6-0 the game finish after a strong performance from the homeside.

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 midfielder Tomas Galvin, who on his debut in a Monaghan jersey, scored an impressive 3 goals and impressed throughout with his smart linkup play.

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

Man of The Match: Tomas Galvin

Goals: Tomas Galvin (3), Dara McKenna, Fionan O’Braonain, Eoin O’Hanlon

Team: Donal Moyna, Blake Lees, Robin Pratt-Clarke, Cian Brennan, Fionan O’Gallachoir, Patrick Treanor (C), Thomas Keenan, Josh Kelly,  Jake McGeough, Tomas Galvin, Fionnan O’Braonain, Eoin O’Hanlon, Dara McKenna

Managers: Conor Finnegan, Brian Finnegan

Match Report v Ballyjamesduff (H) 2nd Sept ’17

In their first friendly of the season, Monaghan United U-14’s kicked off in Goretkeegan against Cavan side Ballyjamesduff.  The game started off with the away side dominating early on forcing Monaghans defence of Blake Lees, Robin Pratt-Clarke, Cian Brennan & Fionan O’Geallachoir to shake off any summer rustiness and defend straight from the off.  Monaghans first chance came when forward Dara McKenna crossed for Cian Bradley-Gillespie who went narrowly close with a header.  The two then combined once again as they exchanged a quick 1-2 before Dara’s shot was saved.  Ballyjamesduff retaliated but were denied by some great defending by Robin Pratt-Clarke.  Cian Bradley-Gillespie was itching to get the break through as he once again broke through the defensive line only to see his effort saved by an impressive goalkeeper.  The home sides front three of Cian Bradley-Gillespie, Dara McKenna and Eoin O’Hanlon started the match very well, and two of them combined when Dara flicked the ball on to Cian who was through on goal, he forced a save from the Ballyjamesduff goalkeeper, but the ball fell back to Dara McKenna who opened Monaghans account for the season. 1-0 to the home side.  With a midfield of Josh Kelly, Patrick Treanor & new signing Jake McGeouch dominating in possession, things were looking up for Monaghan after a slow start.  Monaghans next chance came when Captain Patrick Treanor played a through ball to Dara McKenna only to see his effort sail narrowly wide. Monaghans next chance came when New signing Fionnan O’Braonain played in Cian Bradley-Gillespie only for the defenders to force his shot wide.  Monaghan were dominating, but Ballyjamesduff broke on the counter and minutes before half time, they equalised with a nice passage of play.  Monaghan quickly looked to go back in front when full back Blake Lees played a beautiful long ball over the top of the away sides defence finding Fionnan O’Braonain whos cross met Cian Bradley-Gillespie who was once again denied by an in-form Ballyjamesduff keeper.  1-1 the scoreline at halftime.

Monaghan kicked off the second half on the front foot when Patrick Treanor won the ball in the middle of the park, he slipped the ball wide to Jake McGeough, his cross found fellow new signing Fionnan O’Braonain who fired home, only to see his goal disallowed for offside.  Minutes later Monaghans goalkeeper Ciaran Doyle was forced into a fine saved when the away side fired in a direct freekick.  Monaghans persistance paid off when new signing Thomas Keenan won the ball in midfield, he slipped the ball through the ballyjamesduff defence to Cian Bradley-Gillespie, his cross found Nuno Patacho who tapped home his first goal in Monaghan colours. Cian was proving to be a nuisance to the away sides defence as he broke through once again,  his cross found Thomas Keenan who was denied by a fine save. Monaghan were coming increasingly close to a third when Dara McKenna dribbled past four defenders, his shot beat the keeper but rattled back off the post. Monaghan were playing some great football down the left hand side as Josh Kelly, Eoin O’Hanlon & Fionan O’Geallachoir linked time and time again impressively. They threatened once again when Eoin O’Hanlon fired in a dangerous corner, but Cian Brennan narrowly header over. Minutes before the end fullback Blake Lees broke forward down the right at pace, his cross fell to Josh Kelly who again went close.  In the dying moments Monaghan did however find their third when Eoin O’Hanlon drove forward and slipped the ball to Dara McKenna who fired home his second of the game as Monaghan ran out 3-1 winners in their first game back.

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 Cian Bradley-Gillespie, who was a danger all match and a constant threat to the Ballyjamesduff defence and was unlucky not to get on the scoresheet.

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

Man of The Match: Cian Bradley-Gillespie

Goals: Dara McKenna (2), Nuno Patacho

Team: Ciaran Doyle, Blake Lees, Robin Pratt-Clarke, Cian Brennan, Fionan O’Geallachoir, Patrick Treanor (C), Josh Kelly,  Jake McGeough, Thomas Keenan, Fionnan O’Braonain, Cian Bradley-Gillespie, Eoin O’Hanlon, Dara McKenna, Nuno Patacho

Managers: Conor Finnegan, Brian Finnegan

Match Report v Carrick Rovers (N) 27th March ’17

In the Final game of the season, two of the strongest teams in the CMUL lined up against each other as Monaghan United and Carrick Rovers played each other in the CMUL Shield Final in Cootehill.  Monaghan were missing some key figures from their team through injury and this proved unfortunate as Carrick Rovers started the game at a high tempo, causing Monaghan problems early on. Monaghans defence of Blake Lees, Robin Pratt-Clarke, Cian Brennan & Fionan O’Gallchoir were defending well, but Carrick kept pressing and pressing at a high tempo. Carricks start to the game was well justified as the went 1-0 up in the first few minutes as they took full advantage of a dangerous corner kick.  Monaghan were rattled and soon belief was shattered as Carrick fired in a second from long range within the first 10 minutes of the game.  But all hopes were not lost as Captain Patrick Treanor encouragement lifted Monaghan.  A change in formation, proved out to be a great move as midfielder Darragh McKenna was pushed upfront. His first moment as a striker changed the tempo of the game as he beat three players inside the box before smashing his shot narrowly against the woodwork.  No goal but Monaghan were buzzing as their injured players Dylan O’Reilly, Cian Bradley-Gillespie & Ciaran Doyle roared encouragement from the sidelines. Monaghans midfield where starting to take full control with Fabian Kaminsky, Patrick Treanor and Josh Kelly beginning to dominate, using forwards Lewis Brady, Darragh McKenna and Eoin O’Hanlon as attacking wide outlets. Monaghan soon found a way back into the game as forward Eoin O’Hanlon fired in a deep cross which was met by the head of Lewis Brady who fired home.  2-1 the scoreline at half time, game on!

Monaghan kicked off the second half on the front foot as forwards Lewis Brady, Darragh McKenna and Eoin O’Hanlon drove at the heart of the Carrick defence. Eoin O’Hanlon came closest to finding an equaliser as he fired in three quick shots from long range, only to be denied by the Carrick goalkeeper.  They did however find an equalising goal when Conal Harpin won the ball in midfield, he found forward Lewis Brady whos cross was met by Eoin O’Hanlon who rocketed the effort into the back of the net.  2-2 after an amazing comeback. Midway through the first half Carrick were pressing hard but with Robin Pratt-Clarke and Cian Brennan in centre back, Blake Lees and Fionan O’Gallchoir in fullback, being protected by Patrick Treanor and Conal Harpin, Monaghan were proving to be a defensive force as time and time again they set up a defensive wall which Carrick were struggling to break through.  Monaghan were beginning to dominate as midfielders Josh Kelly, Patrick Treanor and Conal Harpin took control of possession in the game. But minutes later Carrick did however managed to slip through the Monaghan defence in search of a winning goal, but stand in goalkeeper Donal Moynagh was on hand to pull off a fingertip save and keep Monaghan in the game.  The next effort of the game came from Monaghans captain as he struck a powerful effort from outside the box, but again was denied by the inform Carrick goalkeeper.   Carrick looked to respond and tried to find a winning goal late on but Monaghans defensive unit of Robin Pratt-Clarke and Cian Brennan were putting in an expedition of defending as they made sure no shots where fired at Monaghans young goalkeeper. 2-2 the final normal time score as the game couldn’t be settled and progressed into extra time.

Extra time kicked off as the second half finished with Monaghan once again starting off at a high tempo as Darragh McKenna broke through time and time again and was firing shots at goal as Carricks defence couldn’t handle his pace. As Monaghans legs started to tire, Monaghan introduced a new young player in Daithi Brennan who provided extra pace into the frontline as Monaghan pressed for a winning goal. As the game looked all set to go to penalties, the Monaghan players believed their was still enough time left in the match.  Defender Fionan O’Gallchoir won the ball in midfield, he found forward Eoin O’Hanlon the centre of the field, his disguised pass fell to midfielder Josh Kelly on the right hand side of the pitch.  As everyone expected a cross into the box, Josh had other ideas as he struck the ball from distance.  Time felt like it was standing still, everyone held their breath, as the ball flew into the top left corner of the net.  3-2 to Monaghan!!!! as the players roared in celebration after an inspiring hard fought comeback. 3-2 the game finished, as Monaghan progressed as victors in one of the most entertaining CMUL Shield finals there ever has been, ensuring Monaghan won an impressive double for two years running.

Monaghans Man of the Match award goes to midfielder Darragh McKenna, who playing out of position, ran the opposition defence ragged with his pace and determination, proving an important vocal point in Monaghans forward line, and playing a vital role in Monaghan’s comeback victory.

The Managers would like to thank all the parents of the team for their continued support and efforts all season, the club for all their important work throughout the year, especially Ronan Callan and Pauric Cassidy who went out if their way to help the team, but most of all the players who time and time again put in fantastic performances in each and every game, ending the year with another impressive double.

Man of The Match:  Darragh McKenna

Goals: Lewis Brady, Eoin O’Hanlon, Josh Kelly

Team: Ciaran Doyle, Donal Moynagh, Blake Lees, Robin Pratt-Clarke, Cian Brennan, Conal Harpin, Fionan O’Gallchoir, Patrick Treanor (C), Josh Kelly, Darragh McKenna, Michael McMorrow, Fabian Kaminksy, Lewis Brady, Dylan O’Reilly, Daithi Brennan, Cian Bradley-Gillespie, Eoin O’Hanlon

Managers: Conor Finnegan, Brian Finnegan

Match Report v Cavan Celtic (Home) 12th March ’17

In their final league match of the year, Monaghan United U-13’s hosted a strong Cavan Celtic side at home in Gortekeegan.  After forward Eoin O’Hanlon opened the scoring for the home side, Monaghan unfortunately fell to their first league defeat of the season as the lost 2-1 to Cavan late on.

Monaghans Man of the Match award goes to Josh Kelly who put in fantastic shift in midfield, dictating the tempo of the game from the first whistle, showing both great attacking and defensive qualities.

Next Sunday (19th March) Monaghan United U-13’s play Carrickmacross in the Final of the CMUL Shield in Cootehill. The club & management would like to ask all the parents and family members to come out and support the team.

Man of The Match: Josh Kelly

Goals: Eoin O’Hanlon

Team: Ciaran Doyle, Blake Lees, Robin Pratt-Clarke, Cian Brennan, Conal Harpin, Fionan O’Gallchoir, Patrick Treanor (C), Josh Kelly, Darragh McKenna, Michael McMorrow, Fabian Kaminksy, Lewis Brady, Dylan O’Reilly, Cian Bradley-Gillespie, Eoin O’Hanlon

Managers: Conor Finnegan, Brian Finnegan

Match Report v Cavan Celtic (Away) 5th March ’17

In the semi-final of the CMUL Shield, Monaghan United U-13’s travelled away to a strong Cavan Celtic side.  The match had barely kicked off when the ball fell to forward Cian Bradley-Gillespie, his cross found forward Eoin O’Hanlon who fired home the opening goal in the first few minutes.  Advantage Monaghan. Monaghans midfield where starting to take full control with Josh Kelly, Patrick Treanor and Michael McMorrow beginning to dominate, using wingers Cian Bradley-Gillepsie and Lewis Brady as attacking wide outlets. Monaghan nearly found their second when forward Lewis Brady broke down the wing and cross for Eoin O’Hanlon, whose header sailed narrowly wide.  Monaghan did however find their second goal when Cian Bradley-Gillespie whipped in a dangerous corner, after Cavan failed to clear the ball fell to the feet of Lewis Brady, who fired home Monaghans second.  Cavan 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 as chances came few and far between for the home side as Monaghan defended well. As Monaghan dominated in possession, minutes before half time Cavan Celtic broke on the counter attack and found a lifeline into the game as they fired past Monaghans goalkeeper.  2-1 the scoreline at half time.

The second half kicked off with Monaghan dominating from the word go.  Captain Patrick Treanor was putting in an vital performance in midfield as he broke down Cavan attacks time and time again, and anything that managed to bypass him, centre backs Robin Pratt-Clarke and Cian Brennan where on call to sweep away the danger.  Monaghan found a third goal when forward Cian Bradley-Gillespie once again found himself in a good position out wide, his cross was met in the box by forward Lewis Brady, who fired home his 17th goal of the season. Cavan never gave up hope of a fightback as they found a second gear and were using the right wing as an attacking outlet, but defenders Robin Pratt-Clarke, Conal Harpin and Fionan O’Gallchoir were on hand to remove any danger. However, Cavan kept trying and trying to find a way back into the the game and they nearly done so when they broke through the away sides defence, only to be denied by goalkeeper Ciaran Doyle. Monaghan never took the foot off the pedal in the second half as moments before the final whistle, Darragh McKenna drove down the right hand side linking up with Lewis Brady, they found defender Cian Brennan outside the box, and as the crowd roared “Shoot” he rocketed the ball into the roof of the net, rounding off a 4-1 victory to Monaghan United as they progress to the CMUL Shield Final.

Monaghans Man of the Match award goes to striker Eoin O’Hanlon after he put in a vital performance leading the forward line, kicking off the match with a fine goal, and being a constant threat throughout the entire match

Next Sunday (12th March) Monaghan United U-13’s travel host Cavan Celtic in Gortekeegan in a  League tie. The club & management would like to ask all the parents and family members to come out and support the team.

Man of The Match: Eoin O’Hanlon

Goals: Eoin O’Hanlon, Lewis Brady (2), Cian Brennan

Team: Ciaran Doyle, Blake Lees, Robin Pratt-Clarke, Cian Brennan, Conal Harpin, Shane Freeman, Fionan O’Gallchoir, Patrick Treanor (C), Josh Kelly, Darragh McKenna, Michael McMorrow, Fabian Kaminksy, Lewis Brady, Dylan O’Reilly, Cian Bradley-Gillespie, Eoin O’Hanlon

Managers: Conor Finnegan, Brian Finnegan