Feature game

KDFL League Shield (Quarter Final) 

Suncroft AFC 2 Rathangan FC 3

The perfectly manicured grounds of the Community centre in Suncroft set the scene for this League Shield quarter final tie between Premier side Suncroft AFC and Senior Division side Rathangan AFC. 

Suncroft AFC fell to a narrow 3–2 defeat against Rathangan AFC in a game where the scoreline didn’t reflect the balance of play. The Croft dominated large spells of the match, creating the better chances throughout, but were undone by two set pieces and a defensive lapse that gifted Rathangan their goals.

The first goal for the visitors came in the 17th minute from Lee Moore ably assisted by Iain Doyle. The visitors doubled their advantage twelve minutes later when Lee Moore set up Nathan Cullen for the easiest of tasks to make it 2-0 to Rathangan. 

With time almost up in the first half Arun Doyle put Rathangan AFC 3-0 up and cruising going into the break with a stunning individual effort. 

Despite the setbacks, Suncroft showed great character in the second half. Their comeback began when Gaz Dillon produced a brilliant mazy run through the Rathangan defence, winning a penalty which he confidently converted to give his side hope at 3-1. 

The pressure continued and deep into injury time Suncroft were rewarded again for all their dominance when Craig Durney rose highest from a corner to head home and make it 3–2.  Unfortunately, time ran out before the Croft could find an equaliser their performance deserved. It was a frustrating afternoon for Suncroft, who missed a number of chances that could have swung the result in their favour. While the tie slipped away, the display showed plenty of positives to build on heading into the next fixture. Rathangan now progress to the semi finals where they will take on Division 2 side BBC United in the coming weeks. Best for Suncroft were Arthur Bailey , Dylan Guilfoyle,  Gaz and motm for Suncroft Cathal Mahon, Rathangan’s man of the match was Jack Cannon.