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Ross Kennedy, having just turned 9 years old captained the team to play League leaders St Mochtas. The referee set out the ground rules for the players before the match, and he was very serious indeed, until Jesse asked him if he had any lollypops! Castleknock were nervous before the match so a good giggle for all players was needed. Well done Jesse.
Gideon Durojaiye started in goal with Dylan Coyne and Owen Boyle in defence. Right from the off St Mochtas showed why they are league leaders, passing into space and running off the ball. They broke through the Castleknock midfield of Richard Ogu, Jesse Okpetu, Dylan Thompson, Wesley Kupa and Yusuf elMorsy a number of times. This led to 4 St Mochtas players being in attack, creating a 4 v 2 against the defenders. While Gideon made some great saves there was nothing he could do to prevent some of the goals. St Mochtas always waited for the pass which is great to see at under 10 level. Castleknock were putting in a lot of effort and Ross Kennedy and Neil Kirtane were leading the front line.
It was a strong display in the first half by St Mochtas. Time to regroup and the players were given some tips for the second half. 1. play in your position, 2. pass into space and 3. use the moves practised in training. It was a much improved performance after the break with Castleknock matching the league leaders in every area of the pitch. A series of corners for Castleknock were a result of great effort by all the team, keeping St Mochtas on the back foot. Jesse was in goal this half and made some great saves. Castleknock were caught on the break a couple of times and punished with some neat finishing. Castleknock needed to work on keeping possession of the ball from goal kicks and improved as the game went on but there is still room for improvement.
The day ended with handshakes all round and a great effort by Castleknock Celtic. Man of the Match goes to ALL players for the effort and never give in attitude on display
