Academy
- Friday May 5th, 2006 @ 9:15
SAINTS PICK OFF CHERRIES And MARCH ON!
IN THEIR ALL IRELAND Q/F our 16s took on Premier Division rivals Cherry Orchard. With the rain falling the first 15 minutes were helter-skelter with neither side really playing any football. As the game went on the nerves settled and both sides started to find their rhythm.
The 1st real chance fell to the Orchard when an in-swinging corner found an unmarked attacker whose header was just off target. The Saints had more of the quality possession but found their attacks repelled by a sturdy Orchard defence.
The next real chance fell the Orchard's way again but a superb last ditch block tackle from Derek Foran saved Pats. As the half wore on the Inchicore lads began to impose their game and twice Andy Harran was released from midfield with the keeper advancing. Under pressure from the centre-half Harran's efforts sailed well over the bar. Failing to learn the Orchard were punished when a Foran free-kick released Harran again. This time he made no mistake as the ball found the net with minutes remaining in the 1st half.
The 2nd half started brightly for the Ballyfermot lads. They mounted sustained pressure without really creating any clear-cut chances. That all changed with 20 minutes left, Harran nicked the ball off the left back and forced the Orchard defence into fouling him. The referee confirmed where the foul took place and pointed to the spot. Harran coolly placed the ball in the bottom right corner.
Frustration started to set in as the Orchard ran out of ideas. Both their right-back and centre forward were booked for reckless challenges. The final whistle soon sounded and the Saints march on!
Further details of the S/F away to Waterford Crystal will be announced here on stpatsfc.com.
