Historic day for local ETP

IN their latest games in the Intercompetition the Drogheda Emerging Talent Programme squads both celebrated victories - the first time Drogheda ETP have ever won two such matches on the same day.

After a previous disappointing defeat against the DDSL, Drogheda Under-13s bounced back in brilliant fashion to defeat Carlow SL 4-0 at DIFE.

Early pressure eventually paid off when Keefer Carolan scored the opener after Dylan O’Boyle’s header was saved, and it was 2-0 after great football lead to Tadhg Dunne bundling the ball home.

Drogheda didnt lay off in the second half as Altay Guneyer finished off a great cross by Sean O’Halloran, but the goal of the day went to Maithiu Brien who hit a first-time shot from 35 yards out that nestled in the Carlow net.

The Boynesiders’ second success came in the Under-12 age group where they defeated Midlands SL 2-1 in a match also played at DIFE.

In wet and windy conditions, victory was a must for both teams as they had lost their opening games and Drogheda were on the front foot from the start, with Sam Heeney and Eamon Armstrong going close to scoring.

Midlands looked dangerous on the counter and it took a fine save from Finn Moore to stop them from going in front.

Drogheda’s pressure, however, paid off from a set play when a great corner from Sam Heeney caused mayhem inside the box and Max Lennon finished superbly.

The lead lasted just 10 minutes and it was another set play that led to the equalising goal which was also an excellent finish - 1-1 at half-time.

With Drogheda playing against a gale-force wind in the second half they knew they would need to soak up a lot of pressure.

Good play at either end added to the excitement and the atmosphere and both teams had great scoring opportunities, but it was Drogheda who eventually scored the winner with 15 minutes to go. A fine pass by Heeney found Adam Gillespie on the far left and he finished to the Midlands net.

Having defended superbly for the last 15 minutes, Drogheda held on to secure a great win and three points against an excellent side, sparking wild celebrations among the home team.

SCHOOLBOY LEAGUE FIXTURES

SFAI Cup

Under-14 Cup last 32 (ex time/pens)

Sunday January 28th Under-15 Cup last 32 (extra time/ pens)

Under-12 Cup last 32 (ex time/pens) Under-17

Thursday January 25th Under-16

Saturday January 27th Under-13