Our U13 boys turned in a fine display to earn Roche Emmets a first victory of 2021.

Full-forward Dean Griffin contributed 2-1 as the team overcame Wolfe Tones in Drogheda on Monday lunchtime to open their league campaign on a positive note.

Physically stronger than their opponents, Roche led the contest from start-to-finish and played their best football in the third quarter when building on a 2-2 to 0-3 half-time advantage.

Both of Griffin’s goals came in the first half, his second finishing off a wonderful team move which included play from Jack Murphy, Conor Clarke, Lee Casey and Bernard Verbeek.

Niall Connolly and Shay Carolan – and then Liam McCabe – had powerful games at midfield with each getting on the scoresheet. This was McCabe’s second match of the day, having played a soccer fixture earlier in the morning, which makes his performance and general energy levels all the more noteworthy.

Lively Lee Casey and young Murphy – who has the run and bite of his father, Gerry – were point scorers in the first half too.

Captain Conor Clarke, Connolly (2), Griffin and Carolan all struck over the bar in the second half, while McCabe punched to the net and U11 star Peter McArdle registered 1-1 to complete Emmets’ scoring.

However, mention must go to the defence for a commanding display with the full-back line of Seán Conlon, Cian Ellis and Rory O’Donnell sticking so tightly to their men and offering a quality supply of ball to their teammates.

Adam McGuinness, Ronan Grant and Donal Bradley in the half-back line were particularly disciplined in the tackle and rarely gave possession away when they picked it up.

Niall Connolly was a tower of strength when paired with both the prominent duo of Carolan and McCabe, while the forward unit had the edge on their opponents throughout – Murphy, Casey, Clarke, Karl Reilly and Verbeek playing key roles as Griffin led the line.

Peter McArdle and Paul Reilly each had a hand in scores when they were introduced.

Last, but certainly not least, goalkeeper James Curtis was outstanding. His delivery from kick-outs and general passing from the goalline was first class, while the U11 also produced some crucial saves. His bravery was evident – the McKeown blood there for all to see!

The team are out next on Friday night against St. Bride’s in Roche – all support would be welcome.

Roche: James Curtis; Seán Conlon, Cian Ellis, Rory O’Donnell; Adam McGuinness, Ronan Grant, Donal Bradley; Niall Connolly (0-2), Shay Carolan (0-1); Jack Murphy (0-1), Lee Casey (0-1), Karl Reilly; Bernard Verbeek, Dean Griffin (2-1), Conor Clarke (0-1)

Subs: Liam McCabe (1-0), Paul Reilly, Peter McArdle (1-1)

Referee: Rory McCullough