Carrigtwohill hosted Blarney A in the semi-final of the Kevin Dillon Cup in Ballyadam. Both teams knew each other well after competing in Division 7 this season, with one win apiece, so we knew it was going to be a difficult game.

It was Blarney who started the game better, passing the ball well and showing excellent movement. They were rewarded with an early goal when a free kick from the right-hand side took a deflection on its way into the net.

As Carrig were missing a few players, we soon reverted to our old formation, with Tom O slotting in at right-back, alongside Kuba, Dylan and Tom P in defence. This allowed Ryan and Ollie, both outstanding throughout, to drive the midfield forward.

It was Liam on the left who was again causing the damage, leaving his marker for dead on several occasions. As the pressure increased, the equaliser finally came when Scott received the ball and, with one touch, laid it off to Liam, who drilled it past the keeper.

Both teams were evenly matched from that point, but it was Blarney who went into the break with the lead after scoring directly from a corner. Any further chances were dealt with by Julian, who once again pulled off some excellent saves. 👏

 

Immediately from the kick-off, Ryan burst through from midfield and was unlucky not to score after getting into the box.

It was a sign of things to come. We looked stronger than Blarney and were driving forward at every opportunity. The loss of Dylan to injury meant the same back three had to see out the remainder of the game, and what a job they did. Tom O and Kuba were strong throughout and provided excellent distribution, while Tom P was simply exceptional at centre-back, a relatively new position for him.

Again, Ryan and Ollie were outstanding, while Ciarán's work rate was relentless as always. He was now regularly beating his man and creating opportunities. Alonzo worked tirelessly on the opposite flank, covering for Liam, tracking back and doing everything that was asked of him.

Eventually, the equaliser came. A great solo run from Josh ended with a thunderous strike that flew into the top corner.

 

We could not have asked for any more from the boys during extra time.

To say they did us proud would be an understatement. They were relentless—driving forward, showing incredible commitment to each other, tackling, tracking back and constantly searching for the winner. They really wanted the victory.

Chances fell to Scott, Josh and Liam, but we just could not find the winner that our performance deserved.

At that, the final whistle blew and the rest is history.

 

Massive credit must go to the lads who stepped up to take penalties—an extremely difficult thing to do under pressure.

The whole team should be proud not only of what they achieved today, but of everything they have accomplished throughout the season.

Hold your heads high, lads. We will come back stronger next year.

--