Leinster Junior Cup Round 1

Another cup tie for Ballaly and another lacklustre performance. With only 13 players out of a squad of 28 we definitely weren't at full strength but should've had enough to get something from the game.

St. Canices started well and looked to play early balls over the top. On the other hand Balally looked nervous and panicked when in possession. Somehow, we took the lead early on, although it was completely against the run of play. A poor clearance from the home keeper went straight to Mo who cracked a left foot volley into the top right hand corner from all of 30 yards. Game on?

Not for long unfortunately. St. Canices got the equaliser with a set piece move right off the training ground. Long throw from their left side and a free header into the back of the net. They were 2-1 up soon after with a scrappy scramble in the box. Balally couldn't get the ball clear after numerous attempts before it was slammed past Marty.

We equalised straight away after that. Marty getting the assist with a huge punt downfield. Canices didnt defend it well and Paddy nipped in from the left wing to slot home with the first time shot past the on rushing keeper. The home side took the lead once again before the half time break with a deflected shot from distance which gave Marty no chance.

St. Canices stretched their lead to two goals before we were reduced to ten men. Colly Nolan picking up his second yellow with a late but innocuous challenge. Canices had a number of chances to kill the game off but with some last ditch defending and great saves from Marty we kept ourselves in the game. With ten minutes to go we got a glimmer of hope with a goal from Dave but we were always stretched at the back and Canices restored their two goal lead soon after. 

Goals: Mo, Paddy, Dave