Carnaross qualified for the knock out stages of the Taileann Cup with a seven point win over neighbours Moynalty
Carnaross 1-10 Moynalty 0-6
Tailteann Cup (Round 2)
Played in Carnaross – 7/2/2020
A huge crowd braved the elements to descend on Páirc Naomh Chiarán to watch the winner takes all encounter between local rivals and underage partners, Carnaross and Moynalty.
The vocal crowd was treated to an entertaining tussle where Carnaross took the lead after 14minutes through talisman Niall McDonnell and refused to relinquish it. Moynalty established a 2 point lead in the early stages capitalizing on the stiff breeze but failed to build upon this advantage as the half wore on. Dillon Fox opened Carnaross’ account with a curled effort and the midfield duo of Luke Gillic and Cian McGlynn began to establish a foothold in midfield. A rapid counter attack downfield by the home team was momentarily halted by Moynalty only for the ball to fall to the feet of Dillon Fox, who soccer-style flicked it into the welcoming arms of Niall McDonnell. He let loose with a powerful shot that ended up in the Moynalty net, despite being touched on the way in. This was a huge turning point in the game as Carnaross were playing against a firm wind. Cian O’Reilly rampaged forward to extend the lead and keep the pressure on the Moynalty rearguard. In fact, the overall Carnaross work rate was commendable throughout the game as they hunted in packs forcing numerous turnovers. Moynalty kicked over the final 2 scores of the half, including an impressive score by Anthony Nevin in midfield. Carnaross held a 1-3 to 0-4 point lead at half time despite playing against the stiff breeze.
The first 10 minutes of the second half yielded only one score from either team as both teams upped the intensity levels much to the enjoyment of the ever-expectant spectators. Frank O’Reilly’s well taken score put a goal between the sides with 20 minutes to play. Shane O’Reilly was a constant outlet throughout proceedings and he finished off a fine free flowing move with a delightful point. Just when Carnaross looked to extend their lead and push on, Peter Carpenter picked up a black card and the Hoops were down to 14 men for 10minutes. Moynalty replied instantly with a free but the maroon and saffron men upped their work rate and outworked their opponents leading to a Frank O’Reilly free that he created himself and a second point from Cian O’Reilly from distance. With time running out, Moynalty needed a goal but a smart save from Shane McNiffe in goals, from their corner forward, denied any chance of a comeback. Carnaross tagged on three more scores from the deadly duo Niall McDonnell (1) and Frank O’Reilly (2) to bring an end to proceedings.
In the end Carnaross ran out comfortable victors after an engaging tussle with local rivals Moynalty. The game was a credit to both teams at this early stage of the season as it contained great intensity, endeavor and honesty throughout. Thanks must go to large number of patrons who created a fantastic atmosphere and to the Meath Chronicle for their live updates and kind words on our stunning new clubhouse. Carnaross now advance to the semi-finals of the Tailteann Cup.
Carnaross: Shane McNiffe, Ian Donoghue, Tomás Plunkett, Jack Roche, Peter Carpenter, Cian O’Reilly (0-2), Cian Gillic, Cian McGlynn, Luke Gillic, Cormac Yore, Dillon Fox (0-1), Shane O’Reilly (0-1), Frank O’Reilly (0-5, 0-4fs), Niall McDonnell (1-1), Patrick Farnan. Subs: Cormac O’Reilly for Patrick Farnham, Dermot McGee for Cian McGlynn, Shane Yore for Shane O’Reilly, Shane Casserly for Cormac Yore.
