Junior A Football vs St. Peregrines
Sun, 9th February 2003
Result: 0-06 to 0-08

Another Pre season match for both the first and second adult football teams.

St Peregines 0 – 8 Castleknock 0 – 6
Castleknock continued their pre season “tour” on Sunday, when they came up against local rivals St Peregines. With both Junior football teams in action simultaneously, resources were stretched to the limit but thankfully, both matches went ahead.

The game was played in Hartstown Park, on what turned out to be a gorgeous Spring morning.

The going was very tough as the pitch was “heavy” to say the least, but the lads got stuck in from the off – literally!!!

Opening exchanges were scrappy, with both teams struggling to adapt to the challenging conditions. Peregines registered the first score, but Castleknock replied with points from Barry Monaghan and Declan Reilly in quick succession. Again poor finishing was to cost Castleknock, as gilt edged opportunities went a begging.

The teams entered the break level, 3 points apiece. Niall Tutty grabbed Castleknock’s third point from a free near the end of the 1st half. With the half back line of Colin McGuckian, David Leydon and David Dempsey putting in excellent performances, Castleknock were confident of a win at the restart.

Peregines restarted well, and with the aid of the elements, slotted over a couple of points early on to take command. Castleknock replied once again, with another Niall Tutty free, to keep the match tight as the end approached. With the impressive Colin McGuckian at wing back powering up field to grab a vital point, a grandstand finish was on the cards.

But it wasn’t to be for Castleknock, as Peregines knocked over a couple of scores in the latter stages to seal the victory. It must be stated that due to injuries, Castleknock were forced to play the majority of the 2nd half with only 14 men, highlighting the effort put in by all involved. Brian Kelly limped off with a nagging injury. He will hopefully return to full fitness as he is adding significant power to the full forward line.

A third loss in recent weeks wasn’t the desired result but if the effort contines the results will change when the serious business begins in a fortnight.

Team: Fionán McDonagh, Martin Griffen, Shane Reilly, Michael, David Dempsey, David Leydon, Colin McGuckian, Stephen Lynch, Declan Reilly, Gerry Kelly, Barry Monaghan, Peter McKillen, Niall Tutty, Dominic Smith, Brian Kellly.