First Schools Soccer success for St Mary's

St Mary’s SS, Nenagh 3

SMI Newcastle West 1

 

St Mary’s Secondary School Nenagh created a little piece of history last Friday by winning a first ever Munster School’s Cup title.

It was a proud day for all involved in Dooradoyle in Limerick, and just rewards for the effort this particular group of girls have invested over the past three years when soccer was reintroduced in the school.

Reigning champions at this grade, Scoil Mhuire & Ide Newcastlewest, were the opponents and battled bravely, particularly in the opening half with a gale of a wind at their backs. They failed to fully capitalise with the elements although were it not for a stunning reaction save from St Mary’s goalkeeper Medhbh Ryan midway through the half things could have turned out very different.

Nenagh played all the football though in that opening period, defying the wind with a short passing game through midfield before time and again getting in behind a stubborn defence. Aine Touhy and Fiona Pateman were constantly able to secure possession before unleashing the Cuneen twins Ellen and Niamh and the elusive Emma Keating who tormented her opponents all afternoon. Fiona Pateman’s smart finish after a pass by Niamh Cuneen put a fairer reflection on that opening quarter hour.

 

St Mary's Secondary School, Nenagh: Medhbh Ryan, Rachel Shanahan, Fiona Kirwan, Aoibhinn Delaney, Bronagh Keneally, Orlaith Clarke, Ellen Cuneen, Aine Touhy, Niamh Cuneen, Fiona Pateman, Emma Keating.

Subs: Aoibhinn Slattery for Shanahan; Niamh O’Brien for Keating; Jody McGrath for Touhy; Emily Griffin for Keneally.

 

To read more, pick up a copy of this weeks Nenagh Guardian locally or subscribe to our e-paper to access it online each Wednesday.