McConnell shines for Templeogue’s U21s
THERE was delight for Templeogue Synge Street U21 footballers when they overcame the challenge of St Brigid’s 2-11 to 1-08 in Russell Park on Saturday afternoon.
Scott McConnell was the star of the show for the winners, helping himself to two goals and eight points as he tormented the Brigid’s defence throughout.
Brigid’s started the contest in the best possible manner with the opening three points before McConnell kicked the first of his points on the outside of his right boot.
But then Templeogue hit a purple patch, registering one goal and five points without reply with the goal coming from McConnell who volleyed home following good work from Dublin senior player Lorcan O’Dell.
Fintan Dignam tagged on two points during this period while McConnell added two more as the visitors replied with one score on the stroke of half time.
Ahead by 1-6 to 0-5 at the break, Synger extended their lead a minute into the second half from that man McConnell after a good built-up.
Lorcan O’Dell of Templeogue and Michael McGrath of St Brigid’s battle for possession
Brigid’s replied with two pointed scores before McConnell from play kicked one of the scores of the day from close to the side line.
Synger were in the driving seat when they bagged a second goal mid-way through the half when the ball was fed through to McConnell and he made no mistake.
Further points from Sean Cooney and McConnell put the game out of reach, but the Blanchardstown outfit finished with two late consolation scores – a goal and point to close the gap.
Templeogue’s defence was well-marshalled by captain Barra Dignam at full back along with Arron Devitt and Sean Ruane the two corner backs.
Half back Andrew Cotter drove forward at every opportunity from right half back.
Forward Fintan Dignam’s direct running style caused St Brigid’s defence all sorts of trouble as they struggled to contain the rampant McConnell and O’Dell.
The Templeogue outfit was made up of Scott McConnell, a Dublin minor footballer in 2021 and Faughs senior hurlers, keeper Max Fitzgerald who was a member of the Dublin U20 squad in 2022 and Conor Curran, nephew of former Dublin great Paul Curran.
