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On what can only be described as a scorcher of a day the weather at Porterstown was matched only by the quality of play from the U16 Boys. Early season results had been inconsistent but there were signs in recent weeks that the team were starting to gel and to-day was the day it all came together.
Celtic started as they meant to continue with crisp early passes. Adan Rahaman marshalled the defence superbly allowing full backs Daniel Hughes and Darra Walsh to stride forward to support the industrious midfield. Luke Mulcahy played the holding role beautifully allowing the impressive Rob Laffey and Cian Galvin (just back from injury) to go forward and support the hard working Liam O’ Neill up front. Half way through the first half O’ Neill made the breakthrough with a fine finish – a reward for his efforts all day up front. With the pressure off, Celtic pushed forward and Jaime Farrell, Narcis Catre and Rob Laffey secured a 4-0 half time lead with some fine finishes.
Positional changes were made with Omar who had been rock solid at centre back replacing Alex Regan in goals and Sean Costello taking over at centre back. The strength of the team was shown here as the changes did not impact on Celtic’s play or dominance as their football continued to match the stunning weather. Walsh will consider himself unlucky not to have scored with a stunning left foot shot that hit the post after waltzing through the Sword's defence from 60 yards out a la Gareth Bale.
Chances came and only some questionable off sides and some fine goal keeping by the Swords net minder denied Celtic additional goals. Despite this, pressure finally told and Peter Germaine and Alex Regan (2) added the goals to make it 7-0. Regan is becoming a bit of a celebrity with 8 goals this season – not bad for the first choice goalie who spends most of his time between the sticks.
All in all a good win for the Boys. More difficult challenges lie ahead and the Boys are far from the finished article but performances are improving and if they can continue to progress they will be a force to be reckoned with. On a wonderful day all round the only concern for the Celts is that of Co-Manager John O’ Neill who appears to be losing the run of himself as he repeatedly runs onto the pitch looking to what one can only assume is to try and score a goal. Steady on John.
