Tower U21s turn on style to secure title

IN WHAT proved to be a classic football showdown, last Saturday saw the U21 D Championship Final clash between Round Tower and Whitehall Colmcille’s, a contest that unfolded amid challenging conditions on the Collins Avenue pitches in Whitehall reports Rory Merriman.

The Round Tower side, led by manager Jay Joyce, emerged victorious with a final score of 2-7 to 1-4, showcasing not only their footballing excellence but also their resilience in the face of treacherous weather.

Facing gale force winds and a yellow weather warning, the Round Towers’ 22- man panel, notably comprising 14 minor players, demonstrated their mettle as a young yet cohesive team.

The game’s defensive nature became apparent as Round Tower held firm against Whitehall, limiting their opponents to a mere 1-4 despite challenging wind conditions that favoured Whitehall in the first half.

The match unfolded with a keen focus on Round Towers’ strategic defensive play.

The tenacity of their defence was exemplified by Harry Leech, a key player targeted by Whitehall, who weathered relentless fouls and what was described by Tower manager Joyce as “rugby tackles.”

Despite the adversity, Mick Broderick’s precise conversion of frees closer to the goal and Sean O’Mahony’s accuracy with long-range frees bolstered Round Towers’ scoring efforts.

Matthew Broderick’s stellar defensive performance in the fullback line played a crucial role in denying Whitehall any significant penetration.

Round Tower capitalized on set-piece opportunities, with Ben Casey’s fisted goal off a post-hit free putting them ahead at halftime with a scoreline of 1-3 to 1-2.

The second half saw Round Tower maintaining composure, weathering challenges, and showcasing exceptional fitness.

Aaron Leahy, stationed in goal, displayed resilience against Whitehall’s pressing kickouts.

Whitehall’s frustrations became evident with three black cards, while Round Towers maintained discipline, focusing on their brand of football.

As the game reached its climax, Round Tower asserted dominance, with Ben Casey delivering a standout performance in the half-forward line, contributing a goal and a point.

The team’s work ethic and ability to win turnovers reflected their superior fitness, ultimately leading to an undeniable victory with a final score of 2-7 to 1-4.

Mark Donnan’s late goal in injury time served as the proverbial cherry on top, sealing Round Towers’ triumph in a championship final that highlighted not only their football prowess but also their character in adverse conditions.

Manager Jay Joyce expressed his jubilation after the game saying, “We played as a team they didn’t.

“No matter how many times they fouled us we never responded, we never reacted, we just worked harder.”

“We were fitter, and we were better footballers.

“With 15 minutes to go it was obvious there was only going to be one winner,” he told The Echo.