Round 1 of the FAI Junior Cup

Three goals from Balscadden's number 9 were the difference between the two sides in today's FAI Junior Cup first round encounter. The gaffer introduced a new formation switching to a 5 man midfield in order to gain control of the ball more. Unfortunately it wasn't enough to stem the tide.

Balscadden's first goal came from some neat triangles down their left allowing the winger cut in along the by line and with Balally out numbered at the back the striker had an easy tap in. Trailing 1-0 we came back stronger and equalised with a tap in goal from Dave after great work down the left from Karl. 

Balally attempted to push on for number 2 but were hit by a swift attack down and were soon trailing again before the half. We had the lions share of possession in the second half but couldn't create many clear cut chances. Midway through the half Balscadden extended their lead with the striker rounding Marty and slotting home into an empty net.

A glimmer of hope came from the penalty spot. Dave broke clear into the box however he hesitated, couldn't get his shot off and was tackled from behind. The ball dropped to Gonzalo who blazed over with his left boot (will he ever live that miss down). Luckily for Balally the referee called play back for the penalty. This may have been a controversial decision as the ref had played the advantage which was subsequentially squandered by Gonzalo. But Paddy stepped up and made no mistake with a cool finish off the inside of the right hand post. Game on? Unfortunately not. We couldn't find the equaliser in the dying minutes of the game.

Another game and another disappointing defeat. We worked hard but were punished by some excellent finishing.