MONAGHAN UNITED U-17s’ INTO FAI CUP SEMI-FINAL.

Monaghan United 3
Newcastle West(Limerick) 1

The Monaghan United U-17 side turned in another fine performance to reach the last four of the FAI National U-17 Cup competition with this victory over a game and tough Limerick side at Kingspan Century Park on Sunday last.

This game was always going to be a very tough contest as the stakes were very high for these young sides and credit to the local side for running out winners in the end.
Early on United were well on top and should have had the game wrapped up by half time but a series of good chances were all wasted.

United took the lead on 23minutes when a corner was delivered into the Newcastle box, half cleared but when it fell to Jack McCarron he rifled the ball to the Newcastle net with a tremendous left foot shot. Jimmy Fallon, Philip Donnelly and Marty Hanly all had good chances but failed to add to the United tally.

Early in the second half a flowing move saw United sweep the length of the pitch with Donnelly forcing the Limerick keeper into a fine save but Conor Moyna was on hand to put United two up. United appeared to take their foot of the pedal and allowed Newcastle into the game. They pulled a goal back with 24 minutes remaining. In the midst of this Darren Coleman saw red for a harmless coming together with a Newcastle player.

To their credit United got back on top and with 6 minutes left Niall Hahessy booked United’s place in the semi-final with a good strike which beat the Limerick keeper.

On Sunday United got an excellent result against a good strong physical Limerick team and if they get the same result in the semi final then all at Monaghan United will be mighty proud.

157 teams started out in this competition last September and now down to four our local side stands proudly in the semi final of a National Cup.

United got good performances from all the players on Sunday with Cian Byrne, Jimmy Fallon, Philip Donnelly and Marty Hanley showing up well.

It was pleasing to see United senior coach Pat McGibbon at Sunday’s game and this new departure will certainly boost the young players. Pat was well pleased with what he saw and noted some talent capable of going on to better things in the game.

United’s reward for this victory is a tough semi final draw away to another Limerick side Kilmallock. This game is scheduled for Sunday 19th May in Kilmallock.

Congratulations to John Heffernan, Kieran McMahon and the squad from all at Monaghan United FC.