Match of the Week: Boden U21s claim championship crown

BALLYBODEN St Enda’s secured a commanding victory 0-16 to 1-1 over Ballymun Kickhams in the Go Ahead Dublin Under 21 ‘A’ Football Championship final at O’Toole Park on Saturday, reports Rory Merriman.

Under the guidance of manager Liam O’Dwyer, Ballyboden kitted out in their traditional blue and white stripes facing Ballymun’s green and red.

Clinching a Minor and Under 21 double, it was talisman Daire Sweeney leading the charge on the day with an impressive ten-point tally.

Despite challenging conditions on a run down pitch and a stong gusts of cross pitch winds, Ballyboden showcased their dominance down the spine of the team, stemming the attacks from the back line.

Alex Gavin and Evan Nugent stood out in defence, while Michael McDonald excelled in midfield.

Playing into the wind for the first half, St Enda’s took an early lead in the 3rd minute with Ryan O’Dwyer’s score.

Sweeney then converted the first of six frees in the 9th minute, extending their lead.

Action from the U21 decider in O’Toole Park

McDonald added another point after a powerful run down the middle.

Sweeney’s standout moment came in the 24th minute with a curling effort from his supposedly weak foot right between the ballymun uprights.

Ballymun, struggling up front, finally opened the scoring in the 26th minute through Dara Kane.

They gained momentum, narrowing the gap to just one point by the 30th minute with the game’s only goal – Daniel Lee rising highest to convert Sean Parnell’s well-placed delivery.

The halftime whistle halted Ballymun’s progress, and St Enda’s re-asserted their control in the second half.

Adding to their tally, Robbie O’Reilly secured another score in the 34th minute.

The third quarter showcased Sweeney’s scoring prowess, kicking five consecutive points, three from play, establishing a comfortable 0-11 to 1-1 For Ballymun Kickhams, the remainder of the match became about limiting the damage.

Defending with bravery, Ballymun simply couldn’t prevent the knocklyon natives from extending their lead through Luke Byrne and Ciaran Duggan.

Sweeney reached double digits with two more converted frees in the closing stages, while David Keane, a substitute, added the final score in added time.

Ultimately proving too strong, Ballyboden’s cohesive play, defensive strength, and Sweeney’s scoring masterclass secured a resounding and impressive win.

The Dublin 16 side showcased their dominance in both the Minor and Under 21 categories, capping off a successful campaign with a well-deserved double.