Academy
- Friday November 3rd, 2006 @ 11:01
TWELVES MOVE UP TO SECOND
FOLLOWING a 1-0 cup defeat (aet) to Leicester Celtic our Under 12's resumed their League campaign with another away assignment against
Ballyoulster. From the beginning the Saints found it difficult to cope with the effective Ballyoulster forwards as they were constantly pushed back. It was no surprise when the blues of Ballyoulster took the lead.
United gained possession on the Saints right side & following a neat inter-change the Saints were cut open as the blues left-sided winger burst through. A super cross found the Ballyoulster number 9 ghosting into the near post unmarked & with a deft side-footed finish the home side were a goal up.
Ballyoulster were nearly 2 up minutes later but keeper Hennessy saved well. The Saints then suffered a set back when following an accidental clash Hennessy was replaced by Glen Carroll.
The Saints battled bravely & Moorhouse out paced United's back 4 to leave the scores level at half-time. In the 2nd half the Saints came more into the game & their movement & passing technique started to create chances. In the 10th minute of the 2nd half, a quick pass from Smithers to Moorhouse was laid off to Byrne on the left wing.
An early cross was dummied by the other Saints striker Murphy to release winger O'Brien through on goal. He made no mistake firing home. The Saints were now in control with the back 4 now stifling any threat. More chances came the Saints way but the home side held firm.
A great move involving 5, 1-touch passes released Murphy with a 1 on 1 but the Ballyoulster keeper came out on top making a great save on the near post.
Byrne swung in the resultant corner, Moorhouse controlled - couldn't find room to turn so laid the ball back to the edge of the box where Byrne unleashed an unstoppable shot to seal the 3-1 win.
