Ballyduff AFC 0 – 0 Crusaders AFC
Last Saturday evening saw our over 35s 4th division squad travel the short journey to Ballyduff. Manager Moran was facing a selection dilemma for the first time this season, with the threat of running out of jerseys (and Deep Heat) a possibility.
Despite the lack of goals, this was a great game for the spectator. Crusaders were the stronger side in the first half down the hill, as conditions played their part. The Ballyduff keeper kept out several chances from Crusaders in the first 30 minutes, and with the game played at a frantic pace, half time was welcomed by both teams.
The second half saw the home side up the pressure, with Crusaders defending stoutly. Keeper Paul Lawrence was on fine form second half, putting it all on the line on several occasions to keep the home side scoreless. Up front, David Power tormented the Ballyduff defence all game, bringing the midfield into the game and staking a claim for a regular start up top.
Pat Heffernan and Brendan Byrne impressed on their debuts, and will undoubtedly provide much needed competition in key positions as the summer arrives. Regulars such as Peter O’Byrne, Karl Barnaville, Trevor Power, Andrew Titley, Paul O’Neill, Mark Kennedy and Austin Hanrahan once again proved to be the epitome of consistency. Worthy of a special mention is the telepathic link up play between John Rockett and Patrick Egan which was a highlight.
With no fixture next weekend, there are several quads, hamstrings and knees that need time to recover before we get another chance to impress. A gentle training session is planned for Tuesday @ 7pm.
Starting XI: Paul Lawrence, Andrew Titley, Trevor Power, Paul O’Neill, Karl Barnaville (C), John Rockett, Austin Hanrahan, Patrick Egan, Peter O’Byrne, David Power, Patrick Heffernan. Subs: Brendan Byrne, Mark Kennedy
Crusaders AFC 
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