CAT’S ALMOST GET THE CREAM
(courtesy of www.monaghanunited.ie)
It was the classic case of a "game of two halves" as Monaghan United drew 1-1 with Kilkenny City at Buckley Park on Saturday night.
With right-back Jim Murphy suspended, Manager Mick Cooke drafted in Barry Burke to play at right-back, leaving the rest of the side the same as that which drew against Galway United on the opening day of the season.
United had the ideal start on 3 minutes, when Paul Smyth worked an opening for himself on the left and sent in a perfect corss which was met on the volley by Brian Gannon on the right-hand side of the area and the ball was in the back of the net.
United proceeded to dominate the opening half-hour, with chances from Robbie Smith, Alan McNevin and a Jimmy Fullam free-kick all going close.
As the half neared a close, Kilkenny came more into the game, however they were restricted to a couple of shots from distance which went straight to Robbie Horgan.
The second-half was a different story as Kilkenny City dominated from the beginning. United lost their grip on midfield and seemed unable to retain possession. It took a terrific save by Robbie Horgan diving to his left to deny Kilkenny's best effort of the half, but with the home side forcing 10 corners in the second-half eventually the pressure told. A corner was only half cleared and as the ball went out to the Kilkenny right a fierce shot from a tight angle was deflected off Kevin Cronin and past the helpless Horgan in the United goal.
United defend yet another Kilkenny Corner in the second half
United could have stolen the points when Alan McNevin set up Robbie Smith, but his attempted chip just failed to get over Shanahan in the Kilkenny goal. Mick Cooke brought on Stephen Finnegan for Robbie Smith, and he showed some good touches but was unable to carve open the Cats' defence. Michael McCann came on for McNevin in the closing minutes but he too was unable to steal the points for United.
Monaghan United: Horgan, Burke, Sargent, Cronin, Keyes, Gannon, Fullam, Harte, P Smyth, R Smith, McNevin.
Next up for the Mons is an away trip to Hogan Park, Limerick on Friday night. Kick off at 7.45.
PLAYERS VIEW
by Robbie Smith
We started off the stronger team with us putting Kilkenny under a lot of pressure. We scored an early goal when Ganno finished well from a deep cross, and we went on to have a few more chances but failed to add a second goal. We were the stronger team going into the break.
The second half was a completely different game with Kilkenny having most of the play as we failed to adapt to their formation change. For most of the second half we were under a lot of pressure but Robbie Horgan kept kilkenny at bay. Unfortunately it wasn’t enough as we conceded an unlucky own goal late in the game. I reckon we are getting stronger with each game and we can only improve, if I can ever bloody score!!!!
YOUR CLUB NEEDS YOU!
Last Friday night’s attendance at the match was up on last season and there was plenty of noise and atmosphere, alas mainly created by the 30 or so traveling Galway United fans. This year it is vital that Mons get the support of the local football fan and we would encourage you all to come out and cheer on United when they play their next game against Cobh on Sunday 2nd April at 3pm.
Football matches are the one place where you can encourage your children to be as noisy as possible and are a great family day out. Bring your drums and bodhrans and come make some noise!
LINFIELD LET LADIES DOWN
Monday night’s women’s match was cancelled at the last minute by Linfield as they were unable to travel to Monaghan. This was very disappointing for the women’s team but they will bounce back and are in the process of arranging further friendlies for Century Homes Park in the near future.
CAR BOOT SALE
Don’t forget that Monaghan United FC now hold a monthly Car Boot Sale. The next sale takes place at Century Homes Park on Sunday 2nd April from 10am. The cost of entering a Car is a measly €10 and a Van a pathetic €15. Come along and sell everything from books to baths! Get there early so you don’t miss the bargains.
WEBSITE
Wondering where you can find out all you need to know about Monaghan United FC? Want to keep up to date on the latest news and Schoolboy Match Reports? www.monaghanunited.ie is the place to go. Recently revamped with added features and easier access, Monaghan United FC are proud to have such an informative and comprehensive website.
Now there is even more to see with the new Women’s football section and the recent addition of an Online Shop for all your Monaghan United Merchandise.
GREG TURLEY SUITE AND BAGSTER LOUNGE
Having a party? Need somewhere for a meeting or conference? Monaghan United have the facilities you need. The Greg Turley Suite is perfect for meetings or conferences and when combined with the Bagster Lounge it provides the ideal setting for parties. The new Patio area with outside tables and bar-be-queing facilities adds another alternative to this versatile venue. Also remember the Bagster Lounge is open Monday to Sunday for a quiet drink or to watch sports on our big screen T.V.s. For further information and bookings contact Martin Kelly at 086 8937562.
