Match of the Week: Sacred Heart tops in nine-goal thriller

SACRED Heart secured a nail-biting 5-4 victory over Esker Celtic in a U17 DDSL B1 league last Sunday reports Rory Merriman.

The showdown unfolded at Killinarden Hill, with the home team coming out on top, as manager Glen Moran and Mark Jordan watched on from the sidlines.

“The lads put in a great shift,” Moran told The Echo.

“We got off to a superb start, the second half was a different story.”

The match kicked off in dramatic fashion as Killinarden’s Leon Murray, showcasing remarkable form, netted a hat-trick in the opening half.

His opening goal stemmed from a high press on the Esker Celtic goalkeeper, forcing an error and slotting the ball home for a 1-0 lead.

Midfielder, Scott Moran extended the lead to two closely followed by Murray adding another with an excellent volley from outside the box.

Esker Celtic lost out to Killinarden Sacred Heart in a close fought match

Despite Esker Celtic pulling one back in the first half, Murray’s third goal just before halftime, courtesy of a perfectly placed ball from Craig Donnelly, made it 4-1.

Cameron Quinn joined the scoring frenzy in the second half with an impressive outside-the-box volley, bringing the score to a commanding 5-1 for Killinarden Sacred Hearts.

However, a lapse in concentration allowed Esker Celtic to mount a comeback, scoring three quick goals in the second half to narrow the margin to 5-4.

The last 10 minutes saw Sacred Heart’s defence holding firm, led by captain Josh O’Neill, who rallied his teammates and showcased excellent kicking skills.

Sacred Heart managed to secure the victory, defending fiercely in the closing moments.

Sacred Heart came out on top of a nail biting contest against Esker Celtic

O’Neill’s leadership and a resilient team effort ensured that the home side emerged victorious in the thrilling encounter.

The 5-4 clash at Killinarden Hill serves as a testament to the unpredictability of youth football, with both teams displaying remarkable skill and determination.

Leon Murray’s hat-trick and the overall team performance highlighted the excitement of the U17 DDSL B1 league.

Despite the late scare, Killinarden Sacred Heart held on, showcasing their resilience.

“It was a great opening 45 minutes with Leon Murray scoring a hat trick in the first half.

“Cian Heshon was in goals for us and his kicking was excellent out there.

“Thinking the game was over at the half, I made sure to tell the lads not to take the foot off the gas and take the foot off the gas they did.

“Thankfully the lads regrouped, and finished the game showing real resilience.

“Our Captain Josh O’Neill took charge of the lads back there and we managed to get it over the line in the end.”