Patricians Claim Midlands League Title in Local Derby

Patrician Newbridge claimed the Midlands League U19 soccer title on Wednesday January 18 at Newbridge Town Astro pitch with a 3-1 comeback win over local rivals, CPC Kilcullen.

The Kilcullen lads struck first in a game that was high on skill and endeavour – the goal coming after a free kick on the right, was missed by the first centre-half, but flicked to the net by his partner in defence, after just seven minutes.  But, the winners responded quickly when Milltown native Kevin Byrne – up for a corner – stayed lurking on the edge of the six yard box and when the ball was returned, he took it down expertly to sidefoot home and level things up only minutes later.

This inspired Patricians into action and they peppered the CPC rear-guard, with one shot cleared off the line and their keeper pulling off two good saves from Ben O’Dowd and Alex McMahon.  But, O’Dowd was to get on the scoresheet before half-time, when he slotted home after fine work from Cian Gilson on the left wing, to put the Newbridge lads 2-1 ahead at the break.

The second half was played on a knife edge, with both teams creating chances & the result of still in doubt into the closing stages.  However, two substitutes were to settle the matter in Patricians favour.  Alex Minihan and Tommy Tobin were only on the field a short while, when they combined in injury-time for Tobin to show delicate skill in the box to shoot home and secure the title for the Mr Moriarty/Ms Murray trained outfit.

The lads now head for the Leinster League quarter-final, where they will play the winners of DLS Bagenalstown and St Kieran’s College.