AHL 2 Match Report: Castleknock vs. Parnells

AHL 2 Match Report: Castleknock vs. Parnells
30 Mar 2015

Castleknock 1-12 v Parnells 0-4

Somerton welcomed Senior League hurling for the first time to Castleknock last Sunday morning and the home support weren’t left disappointed. The home side ran out victorious over Senior A contenders Parnells on a slightly flattering scoreline but were good value for the win all the same. Despite heavy overnight rain, a crisp breeze ensured the pitch was in great condition and a good turnout of supporters were treated to some well-worked scores and some sterling defensive work.

Castleknock started with intensity and, with the aid of the stiff breeze, showed real intent in going at the visitors defence. The incisiveness of our forward line ensured we kept the score board ticking over and we soon ran into a 1-4 to 0-1 lead. All these scoring chances were based on some serious industry around the middle and the excellent application of a forward line who showed they were willing to work hard to turn-over ball and force the opposition into hurried and misplaced clearances.

The key moment of the game was probably an outstanding save from Brian Dunne at a time when the game was still in the melting pot. The full-back line were dealing capably with all that came their way and again benefited from the lack of time Parnells had between the 50s to choose their delivery. At the short whistle the home side led 1-7 to 0-1.

The second half would be a different scenario with a rising breeze into the golf course end assisting Parnells who began to exert real pressure. Castleknock maintained the honesty of application that is fast becoming a hall-mark and always seemed equipped to soak up the attack. The discipline in the tackle was noticeable and in a game that was extremely well refereed, this paid dividends with Parnells forced into shooting under pressure, never having time to settle. The successful employment of short puck-outs countered the strong breeze and the new arrivals in AHL 2 ran out worthy winners.

A happy aspect of the game was the return of two of our Darraghs, McCormack and Madden from what had been long-term injuries. Whilst in no doubt that sterner tests lie ahead, there was a marked progression from the first round of the league and the learning curve is definitely on an upward trajectory. The hard work done in the last few weeks is bearing fruit and with the changing of the clocks we can look forward to some quality hurling against strong opposition on a firm sod. Seasoned Senior campaigners Crumlin provide our next challenge in Pearse Park on 18 April and this provides another massive opportunity for development. Crumlin are an experienced team of classy hurlers and we’ll look forward to measuring ourselves against them.

The attendance of home support was noted and appreciated by the players and the co-operation of club stalwarts in assisting with umpire duties is also equally appreciated by management. It was great to see our juvenile members endure the elements to see their club evolve. The presence of our two ball-boys especially, Oisín agus Jack, may be seen as a good omen as we’ve never lost a game whilst they’ve been in attendance! No doubt they’ll be vying for a starting spot in the not-too-distant future.