Under 13 – Waterford Schoolboy League
Tramore 1–3 Waterford Crystal
Our Under 13 lads made the trip to Tramore to face the league leaders, knowing they would need to be at their very best to maintain their 100% record. Despite recent heavy rainfall, the Tramore pitch was in excellent condition and set the scene for a high-quality game of football.
From the opening whistle, both sides moved the ball well and looked to play on the front foot in an entertaining contest. Crystal struck the first blow after 14 minutes with a superbly worked goal. James Reddin released Jake Murphy with a perfectly weighted pass, and Jake showed great composure as he raced in on goal and finished confidently beyond the reach of the goalkeeper to make it 1–0.
The lead was short-lived, however, as Tramore responded just three minutes later with a well-struck effort from the edge of the box that gave Ben no chance, levelling the game at 1–1.
Crystal continued to press and created several half-chances as the half wore on. At the back, Conor, Michele, Pearce and Robbie were in fine form, reading the game well and dealing calmly with everything that came their way to ensure the sides went in level at the break.
The second half followed a similar pattern, with Crystal growing in confidence and control. That dominance was rewarded on 34 minutes when Asanda slipped Finn Kehoe through on goal, and Finn showed great assurance to finish clinically and restore Crystal’s lead at 2–1.
The midfield unit of Asanda, Fawwaz, Tom and James were now firmly on top, dictating the tempo and looking dangerous every time they got on the ball. Crystal sensed the chance to put the game to bed and did just that nine minutes from time. Once again Asanda turned provider, and Jake Murphy produced another fine finish to grab his second of the game and make it 3–1.
To their credit, Tramore kept pushing until the end, but Crystal remained disciplined and alert to see out a deserved victory against a very good side.
It was an excellent all-round team performance, with some slick passing and real composure in possession — a number of observers noting how comfortable this group looks on the ball and unafraid to take a touch. As always, it was a true squad effort, with every player contributing when called upon.
A fantastic win for the lads. Well done to the players, coaches and parents for their continued support.
WSFL – U13
| Pos | Club | Played | Won | Draw | Lost | GF | GA | GD | Pts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 03. | Waterford Crystal FC | 08 | 08 | 00 | 00 | 30 | 05 | 25 | 24 |
