K Caldwell Leo O'Connor (pen)
T Caldwell
M Graham (O.G.)
G Cassidy
G Clarke
The Briar Cup tradition that began in 2010 with a contest between Briar Bhoys FC and Kinvara FC was continued in 2011 by the two teams that were the product of the clubs merging at the begining of the year. So it was a slightly different flavour to the competition, but nonetheless a chance for the veterans to play the new blood for bragging rights.
O'Connell Park in Watertown was the venue secured by an absentee Paul Glynn and with temperatures soaring into the 90's it was to be a challenge for players and supporters alike to stay hydrated.
Under 30 Side
The tempo of the game was good for all of 10 minutes after which time the heat took its toll and the game devolved into a somewhat slower pace where plenty of time was afforded players to pick out nice passes. Unless that is you are Eamonn McCarney, who would dribble to the end of the earth, or shoot from 40 yards out rather than give up possession of his precious!
The opening half was evenly contested although the finishing could have been better from both sides. For the U30's Kieran and Tom Caldwell each scored a goal either side of a penalty miss from Gary Cassidy. Although Paul Fallon came up with the save diving to his right, Gary would be the 1st one to tell you that penalties are missed, not saved.
Over 30 Side
In reply the O30's came close when Michael Graham beat a man down the left and squared to an unmarked John Hickey. John's shot on the half volley went wide right, although he may have had time to settle himself before shooting.
Leo O'Connor did get the O30's back in the tie with a penalty kick that he converted at the second attempt. His 1st effort was saved but waved off due to encroachment.
A throw back to the good old days of underage football was enjoyed by the players at half time, as orange slices were used for refreshment as the sun continued to beat down.
Gary Cassidy supplies the entertainment
The O30's opened the second half by conceding a very poor own goal. Gary Clarke raced down the left wing and sent in a low driven ball across the 6 yard box. Michael Graham slashed at the ball wildly with his left leg when a right legged clearance would have been preferred. The result was a quite sweet finish into the top corner as Paul Fallon was left rooted to the spot. As Graham saw the ball hit the net he couldn't help hearing the song "Shots, Shots, shots-shots-shots-shots everyboooody!" in his ears.
Don't ever miss a peno, get a red card or score an O.G.
The O30's continued to battle their way back into the tie but fitness levels being what they are it was hard for the team to maintain any resemblance of shape or quality possession as the gaps began to be exploited.
The Victors
Gary Cassidy and Gary Clarke added to the scoring with nice finishes as the tie became one sided, on the score sheet at least. The O30's did manufacture plenty of chances themselves in the second half as David Coen hit the bar from a header, John Hickey made a tired attempt at meeting a good cross from Jason Kearns and Eamonn McCarney continued his 1 man show.
Leo O'Connor and Kevin Higgins
The U30's ran out comfortable winners but the game itself was more competitive than the scoreline suggests. Other players to impress on the day were Kevin Higgins and Daniel Kilber-Stearns, both of whom were supremely commanding in their play making roles.
New comers Brendan Mitchell and Jason Kearns did their causes no harm either with good performances as the Emigrant Cup is fast approaching this week.
Celebrations at the Briar
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