Carniny Amateurs U13 4-3 Whitehead Eagles U13
Sponsored by Curragh Van Sales

Friday night SBYL action under the lights produced a real classic as Carniny Amateurs U13 battled to a dramatic 4-3 victory over familiar rivals Whitehead Eagles.

The opening stages were evenly contested, with both teams settling into the game. Alfie and Mason M worked tirelessly in midfield, while Oliver and Isaac looked lively on the flanks. The breakthrough came from a cleverly worked short corner between Isaac and Pacey, with the delivery looping towards the far post where James H rose highest to head home.

Buoyed by the opener, Carniny took control and quickly doubled their advantage. Another excellent set-piece saw Pacey find James H, who had drifted away from his marker before powering home his second of the evening.

Whitehead responded strongly, forcing Zayn into action, while Jamie, Ollie and Pacey stood firm at the back against increasing pressure. The introduction of Jackson and Zak injected fresh energy, and the Amateurs extended their lead when Isaac's pass released Zak, who fired a superb strike from outside the box to make it 3-0.

The visitors refused to fold and fought their way back into the contest. Despite the efforts of Mason G and Kelean, who added fresh legs in midfield, Whitehead struck twice before the break to leave the match finely balanced.

Half-Time: Carniny Amateurs U13 3-2 Whitehead Eagles U13

As expected, Whitehead emerged strongly after the interval and pushed hard for an equaliser. Mason G and Kelean continued to work tirelessly, while Alfie dropped into centre-back alongside Jamie and Pacey to help withstand the pressure.

Further forward, Jackson and Oliver provided constant energy and attacking intent, looking to link up with Zak and James H whenever opportunities arose. For much of the second half, Carniny produced a tremendous defensive display, with Jamie particularly impressive in a series of fierce battles down the right-hand side, supported brilliantly by Isaac and Oliver.

After 20 minutes of determined defending, Whitehead eventually found a route back into the game, capitalising from a corner to level the scores.

Many teams might have let their heads drop, but not this Carniny side.

Showing tremendous character, the Amateurs responded positively and continued to push forward. With just two minutes remaining, a deflected cross from Pacey fell kindly to Mason M, who controlled brilliantly before drilling a low finish into the net to spark wild celebrations and seal a memorable victory.

A determined, gritty and thoroughly deserved win against a very strong opponent. Every player played their part in a superb team performance and can be proud of a fantastic night's work.

Full-Time: Carniny Amateurs U13 4-3 Whitehead Eagles U13

Goalscorers

⚽⚽ James H
⚽ Zak
⚽ Mason M

Assists

?️?️ Pacey
?️?️ Isaac

Player of the Match

? Mason M - A relentless display full of hard work, positive attacking play and determination, capped off with the winning goal.

Squad

Zayn (GK), Jamie, Ollie, Pacey, Alfie, Mason G, Kelean, Jackson, Oliver, Isaac, James H, Zak, Mason M

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