Portlaoise AFC U/17s continue their winning ways to the start of the season

Portlaoise AFC 3 

Portumna 1 

AFTER a fine win away last week Portlaoise started their home campaign with the visit of Portumna to Rossleighan Park.

Portlaoise welcomed back goalkeeper Ciaran Skelly, freeing up midfielder Jack Phelan to his normal position. They defence was further changed by the absence of Alex Zajaczkowski and Alan Clyde Dixon, resulting in Cormac Walsh returning to the centre of defence and Max Ryan switching to left full where he joined Brian Mullin and Robert Roe who had fine games last week.

The midfield saw Phelan then join Kayden Carroll and Gary Brennan with the front three of Rhys Devoy, Gael Zandu and Glenn Johnson the same as last week after impressive performances.

The visitors won the toss and decided to play with the strong wind. The early stages were tame enough, neither side creating chances. However, 15 minutes in Portlaoise lost possession in the middle of the park. The Portuma midfielder broke through and slotted home well for the opener. The visitors grew in confidence now and with the aid of the wind pinned Portlaoise back.

Ciaran Skelly rescued the home side with two excellent saves. Gael Zandu was working extremely hard on the left flank for Portlaoise, helping his defence along with making some fine runs, working well with Max Ryan on that side.

On the opposite wing Glenn Johnson fired in some fine crosses on the occasions Portlaoise broke forward.

Despite the pressure the home defence held firm. Robert Roe and Cormac Walsh formed a good central defensive partnership, dealing what came their way calmly, while Brian Mullin carried on from last week’s display with some crisp tackles.

The home side were glad to get to the break just one down meaning all to play for in the second half with the aid of the wind. Ben Peacham was now on for Portlaoise as they chased an equaliser, however Portuma more than held their own as the game wore on.

However, 25 minutes into the second half Portlaoise equalised. Good work from Carroll and Peacham resulted in Devoy firing home his second in two games. Andy Keane and Aidan Byrne were now on the pitch as Portlaoise chased the win.

With seven minutes remaining Portlaoise took the lead. Byrne found Gary Brennan who volleyed home to the delight of the home side. A minute later Devoy stuck the crossbar with a fine effort as Portlaoise threatened again.

With less than two minutes to go a major turning point wrapped up the points for Portlaoise. With Portuma breaking through for an equaliser Jack Phelan made a superb tackle in the right full position and followed it up seconds later with a similar one in midfield.

They ball broke to Rhys who fed Brennan just inside the Portuma half and his exquisite shot from far out giving the keeper no chance.

The result was probably a bit harsh on Portuma who battled well to the end.

Two wins out of two now for Portlaoise. Their next game will be a tough test against Monksland next Saturday. They are blending well for a new team, good team spirit and work rate is excellent, the ability to come from behind in both games a good trait.

Gary Brennan shaded player of the match for his two excellent goals, fine performances throughout also. Good to see injured players Jan Gdowski, Jack Ryan and Alex down supporting their team mates, hopefully they will all be available shortly.