Match of the Week: Lucan stay third after Crumlin win

In a THRILLING four-goal showdown last Sunday at Armagh Road, Kimmage, Crumlin United succumbed to the relentless prowess of visitors Lucan United 3-1 in the Leinster Senior Sunday League, reports Rory Merriman.

As the season approaches its latter stages, Crumlin United find themselves grappling with an underwhelming campaign, having suffered three losses out of seven.

Seeking redemption hunting for their third win of the season, the Dublin 12 side put up a spirited fight that ultimately fell short against the formidable Lucan United.

The game kicked off at 12 pm on Sunday afternoon, with Lucan asserting dominance from the outset by maintaining possession.

In just six minutes, Lucan seized the lead as a crossing ball deflected off the boot of striker Marco Chindea onto a Crumlin defender’s hand, resulting in a penalty.

Wearing the number 23, Dillon Clausen confidently stepped up, converted the penalty, and propelled Lucan to a 1-0 advantage.

Lucan United had a commanding win over Crumlin to leave them third in the table

Crumlin’s goalkeeper, Cian Clarke, faced a daunting task as Lucan’s relentless efforts had him diving and stretching to defend the corners.

Despite his efforts, Lucan’s persistent striker, Marco Chindea, breached the home defence, extending the lead to 2-0.

In the 36th minute, a spectacular free-kick from talisman Chindea added a third goal for Lucan, leaving Crumlin bewildered as the halftime interval approached.

Dillon Clausen, the goal scorer, earned himself a second yellow following clumsy challenges, resulting in a red card.

Despite playing with 10 men, Lucan entered halftime with a commanding 3-0 lead.

Crumlin United sit eleventh in the table after their loss to Lucan

The absence of Clausen in the second half had minimal impact on Lucan, as Crumlin failed to capitalize on their numerical advantage.

A header from center-half Jack Funge brought Crumlin within two goals, but Lucan’s resilience proved insurmountable.

In the second half, Crumlin’s left-winger, Ryan Kelly, showcased notable determination, keeping the door slightly ajar for the home side.

However, Lucan’s strength prevailed, maintaining their lead until the final whistle.

After the match, Crumlin United manager James Lee reflected on his team’s performance, acknowledging the challenge of starting slow and emphasizing the need for improvement.

“Once you start slow it’s hard to come back.

We can’t turn up just for the second half and expect to win,” Lee told the Echo.

“We have to improve, and we have to do it quick,” he added.

Lucan United manager David Mooney expressed satisfaction with the three points, describing the game as a good display of football and highlighting his team’s steady season despite a few hiccups.

“I thought we played well in periods, delighted with the three points.

“Our season has been pretty steady, good to bounce back after two defeats with a good win today,” Mooney revealed to The Echo.

After their 3-1 triumph, Lucan sit steadily in third place, while Crumlin United languish in 11th place in a 14-man table.

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