Banagher’s power proves too much for Portlaoise

Portlaoise AFC U/15 team (standing l-r) Ass. coach Robert Flanagan, Shane Hogan, Odhran Mahony, Alex Lawlor, Krystian Kaczmarek, Ioan Murphy, Dara Leonard, James Meade, Head coach Caren Flanagan; (kneeling l-r) William Henderson, Ben Thompson, Thomas Brennan, Blessing Mtawali, Ben Lynch, Ryan Cody.
Banagher Utd 3
Portlaoise Rovers 0
Banagher United U15 secured a 3–0 home victory over Portlaoise Rovers on a bright afternoon at Middle Road.
With both teams battling strong from the offset, Banagher's intent was clear from the outset, pressing high and moving the ball quickly up the right wing, meeting Dara Leonard every time who stopped them in their stride. That pressure paid off and this saw the hosts 1–0 up.
Portlaoise kept their heads high, continuing to press and maintain composure, William Henderson narrowly missing a chance to equalise before the half time whistle.
Portlaoise Rovers struggled to gain a foothold in the game in the second half, with Banagher’s midfield dictating the pace and keeping possession well. A second goal followed before long, leaving the Rovers’ defence flat-footed.
Despite the slow start to the second half from Portlaoise, we couldn’t convert our chances to goals, with Banagher’s keeper pulling off some great saves. The hosts sealed the win with a third goal, capitalizing on a defensive lapse to slot home from close range.
Alex Lawlor for Portlaoise played an absolute blinder of a game, defending with confidence and composure. The lads played the best football we have seen all season, the final result does not reflect the effort and work that we have come to see from a growing team.
It was a tough afternoon for Rovers, who showed flashes of great promise. Banagher continue to top the league undefeated. This Portlaoise team shows great promise, they have finally settled down and have proven themselves to be a competitive team in the league.
Portlaoise Panel: Shane Hogan, Odhran Mahony, Alex Lawlor, Krystian Kaczmarek, Ioan Murphy, Dara Leonard, James Meade, William Henderson, Ben Thompson, Thomas Brennan, Blessing Mtawali, Ben Lynch, Ryan Cody.