U20s eyeing elite phase after hero Harry’s winner

EA SPORTS U20 LOI GP A ST PATRICK’S ATHLETIC 0 DROGHEDA UNITED 1

LATE substitute Harry O’Connor emerged as the hero as his injury-time goal secured victory for Drogheda United in a thrilling EA Sports League of Ireland U20 clash at TU Dublin Blanchardstown.

The victory has catapulted Drogheda back into the battle for qualification for the elite phase, as they now sit joint second with Pat’s and Derry City, trailing leaders Shelbourne.

The match was played in really challenging conditions, which disrupted the passing rhythm of both teams and led to a tense battle.

Despite the difficulties, both sides showed determination and resilience, cancelling each other out for much of the game.

The visitors shaded the second half, though, and created a few chances late in the game, with U17s graduate Ethan Maher impressing after coming on as a substitute for the injured Emmanuel Milongo.

Drogheda’s first-team players, including Matthew O’Brien, Emre

Topcu and former St Pat’s clubman James O’Brien, along with the front three of Bridel Bosakani, Matthew McCarrick and Connall Cronin, displayed exceptional defensive prowess against a formidable Pat’s side.

Goalkeepers Finn Moore and Theo Hennessey, along with the defence of captain Osaze Irhue, Evan Haddock, Ultan McLaughlin, Maher and Milongo, were also outstanding despite the difficult conditions.

Midfielder Callum Warren provided an additional spark for Drogheda after coming on, linking up well with the back four to create more opportunities.

St Pat’s switched to a 3-5-2 formation in pursuit of victory, but Drogheda remained resilient, looking stronger as the game progressed.

As the match headed into injury time, the game seemed destined for a draw, but that was until the decisive moment occurred, involving two of Drogheda’s subs.

Fayo Adeogun set up O’Connor and he buried the ball into the net, sealing a crucial win for Drogheda United.

The jubilant celebrations that followed highlighted the significance of the victory for the claret and blues.

With momentum on their side, Drogheda United will now prepare to face Bray Wanderers in their next fixture at DIFE, aiming to build on their recent success and climb further up the table.

DROGHEDA UNITED: Finn Moore (Theo Hennessy 78), Ultan McLaughlin, Emmanuel Milongo (Ethan Maher 79), Conall Cronin, Matthew O’Brien (Callum Warren 71), Matthew McCarrick (Harry O’Connor 83), Emre Topcu, Osaze Irhue, Bridel Bosakani, James Byrne, Evan Haddock. Subs not used: Tadhg Dunne, Cameron Feehan, Fayo Adeogun, Altay Guneyer.