Dundalk FC U15 1-1 St Patrick’s Athletic U15
EA Sports U15 National Underage League Group B
Dundalk ended phase one of the EA Sports U15 National League season with a 1-1 draw against an excellent St Patrick’s Athletic side in Oriel Park on Thursday night.
The game started at a frantic pace and Dundalk managed to gain the upper hand of the early exchanges. Both teams had chances throughout the half, with the Lilywhites best chances coming from set-pieces.
Luke Povall rattled the crossbar after the ball was crossed in, before they hit the woodwork again a few minutes later, from another well-worked set play.
It was St Pat’s, however, who made their opportunities count in the first half, as they took the lead shortly after Dundalk’s threatening spell following a good spell of possession.
The Saints took control after the break and Conor Woods’ side worked tirelessly to keep the visitors at bay. Pat’s created some good chances, but goalkeeper Thomas Brady held firm, producing a stunning triple save to keep his side in the game.
Dundalk soon began to push on in search of an equaliser, and they eventually found one, when Ryan Kelly was on hand to finish after a well-worked move from the Lilywhites.
The game ended 1-1 in what was a superb performance from Dundalk, who showed great defensive maturity throughout and proved that they can compete with the best teams the country has to offer.
DUNDALK FC U15: Thomas Brady, Luke Povall, Luke Alison, Tom McLoughlin, Jake Hough, Jack O’Flaherty, Dino Costin, Damien Balsic, Kevin Teather, Sam Case, Jack O’Neill. Subs: Daniel Invechenko, Ryan Kelly, Jack McLaughlin, Cathal Corcoran, Kuba Layton, Ben Miller, Adam Mullins.
