Kilmainham 2-11, Nobber 2-9

Kilmainham took on Intermediate side Nobber on Friday 19th July 2024 in a relegation semi-final play-off in Moynalty. The outcome was straightforward. Win and we retained our Division 3 league status, lose and we would be relegated to Division 4. Both teams had played each other in the opening round of the league on St. Patricks weekend. On that occasion only a point had separated the teams in Kilmainham’s favour. This match was sure to be similar with both teams struggling at the wrong end of the league table.

The opening few minutes of the first half were cagey as both teams were sussing each other out. Kilmainham had some possession in the Nobber half but gave away silly ball and had nothing to show for on the scoreboard as a result. Nobber on the other hand were starting to get into the match. Their first meaningful attack resulted in a goal down the Kilmainham right hand side after just under 3 minutes. A poor goal to conceded on our behalf. They then hit another point from play. Ger Morgan hit our first point of the day as both sides looked to play on the counter. Two Nobber frees followed as Kilmainham were giving away some needless free’s in defence in front of their own goals. Nobber were in control of the match, and they hit the next 4 scores to take in a commanding 8-point lead at half-time. There was only going to be one winner judging by this half of football. Nobber in a great position to win the match.

Half Time Score:  Kilmainham 0-3, Nobber 1-8

Kilmainham had a mountain to climb. Some stern words at half-time saw Kilmainham fly out of the blocks. Freddie Newman claiming the throw up and driving us forward. We hit 1-4 without reply in a devastating 3 and half minute spell. Mark Newman getting on the end of a good team goal and further points from Mickey Hoey (2), Jamie O’ Sullivan and Dylan Morgan with a free. There is a lot of talk about momentum in football these days and how difficult it is to stop it when it turns. This was evident in this game. Nobber were rattled and were struggling to get out of their own half, as the direct running of Kilmainham and Michael Hoey in particular was causing them endless problems. Game back in Kilmainham’s favour or so we thought! Then another sucker punch as Karl Casserly somehow managed to cut through the Kilmainham defence with a long marauding run to cooly slot low in the Kilmainham net. Nobber followed this up with a point from play to take a 5-point lead. Kilmainham shell shocked as the momentum swung back in Nobbers favour. In typical Kilmainham fashion the lads kept coming back. A point from play by Freddie Newman and another free from Dylan Morgan closed the gap to 3 points. A brilliant long ball into midfielder Larry Morgan in the square resulted in a Kilmainham penalty. Referee Joey Curley consulted with his umpires and corrected allowed the penalty as Morgan was fouled inside the square. Up stepped Mickey, this time not our normal penalty taker Mickey Newman. Instead, young Michael Hoey stepped up and showed brilliant leadership and composure to send the Nobber keeper the wrong way. We were level. The game was tight as both teams fought for every ball to try and avoid relegation. Dylan Morgan hit a point from play and then knocked over from a free to take a two-point lead with time nearly up. Kilmainham saw out the match very well, keeping possession and doing the simple things right as Nobber tried desperately to salvage the match. Division 3 status secured for next year. Hard luck to Nobber on the night. A good sporting game and not a match either of us wanted to be playing in.

So that ends our league campaign for 2024. Next up is championship with one of the Junior A favourites Dunsany in the opening round in Cortown on Friday 9th August at 7.30pm. Thanks to the small support that got behind us on the night. It really makes a difference, and we need everyone in the club to get behind the team as the championship approaches. It is very much appreciated by the management and players.

Best for Kilmainham were: Harry Newman, Michael Hoey, Jamie O’ Sullivan and Dylan Morgan.

Kilmainham Team: Dean Peppard, Stephen Newman, Harry Newman, Padraig Caffrey, Shane Morgan, Seanie Mahon, Jamie O’ Sullivan (0-1), Freddie Newman (0-1), Larry Morgan, Mark Newman (1-0), Andy Arkins, Michael Hoey (1-2), Ger Morgan (0-1), Dylan Morgan (0-6), Terence Daly.

Subs: Johnny Quinlan for Terence Daly and Barry Lynch for Ger Morgan.

Referee: Joey Curley (Moynalty)

 

Tweet

Most Read Stories